QA Lab Technologist

Full job description Company Overview: Tootsie Roll Industries, Inc. is America's favorite candy company, manufacturing and selling some of the world's most popular confectionary brands. Beginning in a modest New York candy store with the Tootsie Roll's introduction in 1896, the Chicago-based company has grown to become one of the country's largest candy companies, with operations throughout North America and with distribution channels in more than 75 countries. The Tootsie brands resonate strongly among every age group, culture, and demographic; for every occasion and event; and during every economic climate, qualifying them as truly enduring, iconic American confections. For more information, visit www.tootsie.com The Quality Assurance Lab Technologist is a key role in Tootsie Roll’s QA department. The successful candidate will engage in a variety of food safety, project management and processing issues to support the Chicago facility, and as needed the overall company-wide QA initiatives. Core Job Functions: Assist in developing HACCP plans, SOP’s and maintaining food safety programs for 3rd party audits Perform daily quality checks to ensure all company, customer and regulatory specifications and requirements are being met Manage and verify sampling, lab reports and approvals of incoming raw ingredients Manage and coordinate outside laboratory sample preparation for pick-ups Manage Environmental Monitoring Program Create, develop and maintain documentation relating to raw ingredients, EMP and other relevant data reports Oversee updates for Safety Data Sheets (SDS) related to QA specifics materials Update Quality Manuals as required Participate in multidisciplinary audits conducted throughout the year Advise local QA manager regarding questionable product, discarding out of spec product or potential need to stop a production line to correct or prevent product quality issues Uphold established housekeeping standards to prevent microbial contamination of products or ingredients Assist in SQF audits Work closely with plant and QA leadership in project specific tasks to ensure continued development of new and enhanced products Physical demands and work environment: Ability to handle exposure to temperature changes, high noise levels, and safely working around moving equipment Able to stand, walk, kneel/squat, climb, bend and lift up to a maximum of 50 lbs. occasionally Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences 2-5 years’ experience in Food Microbiology, Food Chemistry and Environmental Monitoring in an FDA regulated facility HACCP/PCQI Certification and familiar with GSFI audits Must be able to work independently, take initiative and adapt schedule as needed Strong computer skills including Microsoft office suite Strong verbal, written communication and interpersonal skills Strong persuasion skills in order to facilitate decision-making Job Type: Full-time Pay: From $80,000.00 per year Benefits: 401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Schedule: 8 hour shift Education: Bachelor's (Preferred) Work Location: In person