Quality Assurance Technician

**Hiring for two (2) open positions**

Avena Foods is a specialty miller that partners with farmers and customers to bring safe, sustainable, nutritious oat and pulse ingredients to consumers around the globe which are non-GMO and gluten-free. We have three facilities: Regina, SK, Rowatt, SK and Portage la Prairie, MB.

In a career with Avena you can look forward to:

- Being a part of team committed to building an innovative and diverse culture
- Supporting your growth through professional development, training, and recognition programs
- Competitive compensation which includes benefit programs such as: Health, Dental, Life, Retirement Savings, Employee and Family Assistance Program and more
- We offer additional benefits for extras Take advantage of our Health Spending Account for additional expenses like more expensive glasses. Or the Wellness Account that covers recreational items like gym membership, running shoes, etc.

If you'd like to join a team that is collaborative, hardworking and provides opportunities for growth. Please apply.

Avena Foods is actively seeking two (2) **Quality Assurance Technicians** to join our team. These positions are not limited to a specific location and will be allocated as needed between our plants in Rowatt, SK, and Regina, SK. This position prepares samples and conducts laboratory tests on raw materials and finished products to ensure compliance of oats and finished products with Avena’s high standards for food safety and quality. The incumbent also conducts inspections, prepares documents, makes risk-based decisions, and acts as backup for the Grain Receiving Quality Technician.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Perform routine QA duties as per Standard Operating Procedures.

2. Prepare samples for testing.

3. Conduct physical, chemical, microbiological & allergen testing of raw materials and finished products while maintaining a gluten free laboratory.

4. Collect retention samples and perform shelf-life testing on retention samples.

5. Perform pre-operational inspections (ATP monitoring) and environmental monitoring of all relevant parts of equipment and areas of the facility.

6. Implement and monitor HACCP and related systems such as Food Safety Management System (FSSC22000).

7. Perform operational document verification and follow up on quality & safety incidents.

8. Maintain accurate and comprehensive records that may be audited.

9. Participate in internal or external audits when required.

10. Report non-compliances and take corrective actions to assure compliance to all quality & food safety requirements daily.

11. Make timely risk-based decisions to ensure products meet the quality standards, food safety requirements and customers’ specifications.

12. Assess, document and trend products and isolate if required by following the Hold and Release Program.

13. Conduct incoming grain delivery inspections when necessary.

14. Propose improvements in related business processes.

Education Requirements

Minimum Diploma or its equivalent in Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Food Science, or related Field.

**Skills**:

- Knowledge of HACCP principles and prevalent food safety and quality standards is preferred.
- Proficient with Excel, Word, and Power Point
- Ability to multi-task, establish priorities and follow through on them.
- Ability to work independently and in as team with mínimal supervision.
- Excellent interpersonal skills that enhance inter-departmental interactions.
- Good logical problem-solving; Strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills.
- Willing to be flexible on schedule; ability to meet schedules and deadlines, including overtime as required

Number of job openings: 2

Start Date: ASAP

Location: Regina, SK or Rowatt, SK as per company requirements