Woodland Gourmet · 2 months ago
Quality Assurance Specialist I (2nd Shift)
Waukegan, IL
Full-time
Onsite
New Grad, Entry Level
$45K/yr - $58K/yrWoodland Gourmet is seeking a QA Specialist I to support the implementation and maintenance of quality assurance processes. This role involves monitoring product quality, conducting inspections, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements while collaborating with cross-functional teams.
AgricultureFood and BeverageManufacturingPlant-Based Foods
No H1B
Responsibilities
Collect and archive library samples from the Receiving department
Conduct quality and food safety audits individually or as part of a team
Ensure proper labeling and paperwork for inbound products
Perform equipment cleaning and ATP swabbing after sanitation processes
Ensure allergen compliance on production lines
Evaluate product samples at the time of receiving, considering factors such as appearance, size, moisture analysis, and ingredient statements
Conduct initial evaluations of possible quality issues
Assist with handling various returns that may include inspection of customer concerns
Assist with general data entry on QA-related documents, such as product information and Vendor Certificate of Analysis
Audit all receipts and paperwork for accuracy in terms of items and quantities
Conduct any other functions as required by the QA department
Conduct pre-operational inspections at production site
Inspect equipment used daily and report any issues as needed
Responsible for sticker removal/application for INAFS items
Manage product sampling necessary for Certificate of Analysis creation
Conduct internal incident investigations
Perform Gluten testing on Gluten-free products and lines
Release products that are on hold when approval is received
Generate maintenance work requests linked to Quality/Food Safety
Perform in-house sample testing, including testing for moisture, size, and water activity
Qualification
Required
High School diploma is required
Troubleshooting, data analysis, and investigative skills are essential
Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Word and Excel, are required
Ability to work with minimal supervision
Excellent report writing, interpersonal, and communication skills (written and verbal)
Strong organizational and time management skills
Attention to detail is a required attribute
Must be flexible with working hours, including the possibility of overtime and Saturdays
Ability to lift up to 55 lbs (anything over 55 lbs requires team lift)
Must follow all company GMPs and consistently adhere to food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
Preferred
Experience working with inventory systems is a plus
Previous experience in the quality food industry is a plus
Knowledge of food safety, food manufacturing processes, technologies, or relevant areas of responsibility is a plus
Familiarity with government regulatory requirements in food (GFSI, FSMA, FDA) is a plus
Bilingual proficiency in Spanish is helpful
Benefits
Medical
Prescription drug plan
Dental
Life insurance
Short-term and long-term disability
Vision insurance
Flexible spending account
Health savings account
Tuition reimbursement
Employee assistance program
Voluntary benefits (hospital, critical illness, personal accident, legal & identify theft)
401k with company match
Paid family leave
Paid holidays
Paid time off
Company
Woodland Gourmet
Woodland Gourmet is a food production company providing herbs, powdered mushrooms, heirloom beans, and polenta.
Founded in 1989
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
David Moore
CEO
John Buckles
Chief Executive Officer & Board Member
Recent News
Food Business News
2025-11-21
Mergers & Acquisitions
2025-10-31
Company data provided by crunchbase