QA Lead
Summary
Floor-level quality assurance lead at Creekstone Farms' beef processing plant in Arkansas City, KS: coordinates daily QA Technicians in the Harvest or Fabrication area, performs QA checks and audits, trains technicians, and works with production, sanitation, and USDA staff to resolve quality issues during the shift. Requires meat-processing QA experience and HACCP/SSOP/GMP knowledge.
JOB SUMMARY:
The QA Lead is responsible for coordinating the daily work of the QA Technicians in the assigned area, Harvest or Fabrication, while also performing QA Technician duties. Reporting to the QA Supervisor for that area, this position assigns tasks and checks the quality of technicians’ work on the floor, while the QA Supervisor keeps authority for scheduling, appraisals, and discipline. This position works closely with production, sanitation, and USDA personnel to resolve quality issues as they arise during the shift. This position must understand, promote and have a “Creekstone Proud” mindset that positively enhances the Company culture, being an example of appropriate behavior, attitude, and respect for others.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Coordinate daily QA Technician assignments and check coverage for the assigned area and shift.
• Perform QA Technician checks, audits, and verifications, covering open positions as needed.
• Review technicians’ records during the shift for completeness, accuracy, and timeliness.
• Train new QA Technicians on the floor in approved procedures, as directed by the QA Supervisor.
• Serve as the first point of contact for technicians and production on quality questions during the shift.
• Carry out the priorities set by the QA Supervisor; do not change procedures or specifications.
• Give the QA Supervisor input on technician performance, attendance, and training needs.
• Refer to the QA Supervisor product disposition, USDA findings, personnel issues, and decisions beyond this authority.
• Develop and promote positive working relationships with employees, peers, leaders, and all others.
• All other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Prior QA Technician experience at Creekstone, or comparable QA experience in meat processing, required.
• Working knowledge of Quality, HACCP, SSOP, and GMP programs; HACCP certification preferred.
• Prior lead or training experience preferred. Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
• Able to lead peers by example and give clear, respectful direction without formal authority.
• Extremely high attention to detail, with strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Basic computer skills, including the Microsoft Office suite, for entering and reviewing quality records.
• Excellent employment, attendance, and safety record.
• Clear communication skills – verbally and in written form – presenting ideas, concerns, and questions in a well thought out, positive, and professional manner.
• Takes initiative and stays composed under live production pressure while working as part of a team.
• Able to stand, sit and walk for extended periods, climb, stoop, and crouch occasionally, lift and carry up to 100 pounds occasionally, and work in cold (about 45°F), warm (about 85°F), and wet manufacturing environments wearing appropriate PPE.
• Availability to work the assigned shift, including overtime, as needed.
• On-site position at the Arkansas City, KS facility.
Creekstone Farms Premium Beef LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.