Job Description
Support new product development through testing, documentation, and ensuring recipe/product specification compliance. Contribute to the creation and maintenance of programs aimed at preventing food safety issues and achieving quality goals. Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, food safety standards, and HACCP program mandates, including training. Maintain company-wide quality procedures and the product specification system. Assist management in handling customer complaints and product recalls. Oversee weekly testing of plant products and environmental assessments. Review and report on plant quality performance. Develop and implement safety programs to minimize employee exposure risks. Serve as the safety committee coordinator. Organize safety training, including new employee orientation, annual hearing tests, on-the-job training, checklist development, and monthly training sessions and employee meetings. Investigate accidents, conduct round table discussions, and perform job safety analyses. Facilitate training in quality, food safety, and food manager certification efficiently and promptly. Ensure all key management personnel, supervisors, and lead staff are up-to-date with food safety training requirements and attend necessary training sessions.
ResponsibilitiesAssist with USDA/FDA requirements, paperwork, and floor walkthroughs.Conduct pre-operational inspections and in-process checks.Review paperwork and ensure GMP compliance.Essential SkillsAttention to detailCritical thinkingStrong communication skillsService-oriented individual with a high-energy, positive, and friendly demeanorAbility to adapt to continually changing priorities and coordinate multiple projectsProficiency in computer skills (Outlook, Excel, Word)Strong customer service, interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skillsUnderstanding of quality principles, research and development functions, analytical and bacterial principles, sampling concepts, and testingProject management and decision-making skillsStrong math skillsAbility to maintain compliance with USDA, FDA, HACCP, OSHA, SQF, and all other regulatory agencies while adhering to good manufacturing practicesProficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and comprehending EnglishAdditional Skills & QualificationsHigh School Diploma (required); Associate or Bachelor's degree in Science, Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or a related field (preferred)Previous experience in a food manufacturing facility is essential, preferably in a USDA facilityBilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is highly desirableWork Environment
The QA Technician will work in a contract position until November 1st, with the potential for extension. The role supports the quality team due to a current employee on medical leave. This role will be scheduled Monday-Friday between the times of 6:00 am-5:00 pm. The Lake Mills facility, where the role is based, produces products such as soups, dips, pies, and frozen entrees. The candidate will spend the majority of their shift on the manufacturing floor and must be comfortable following GMP and safety protocols. Work attire includes non-slip shoes, pants, a smock/lab coat, and necessary PPE and hair/beard nets.
The QA Technician will use office equipment and basic laboratory equipment such as a PH meter, thermometers, Uni-Lite NG, a viscometer, a refractometer, and scales.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $21.00 - $29.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Lake Mills,IA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 26, 2025.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.