Overview

Quality control technicians ensure that processed and manufactured food products are produced safely and follow quality standards. They perform day-to-day quality control activities such as internal audits, recommend corrective actions, perform checks on production lines and test in-progress products in the laboratory.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Inspect raw materials and ensure they adhere to quality standards
• Conduct daily audits on good manufacturing practices (GMPs)
• Perform biological swabbing, product sampling and allergen/species testing
• Conduct in-lab testing of products to ensure finished product specifications
• Place products on hold if they do not adhere to food safety or quality standards
• Assist during third-party audits; being available for questions and documentation
• Ensure operations paperwork is correctly conducted
• Conduct sensory evaluations on raw materials in-process and finished products (E.g. taste, color, odor)
• Calibrate and verify lab equipment
• Work collaboratively with production staff to ensure product is manufactured according to standards
• Assist in customer complaint investigations
• Complete paperwork and other reporting tasks including trend analysis, shift reports and non-conformance
• Perform quality control checks such as correct packaging and weight
• Support production staff with questions about food quality and safety
• Keep office and laboratory spaces clean and in sanitary condition
• Follow and comply with all safety regulations

What education and training is required?

An associate’s or bachelor's degree in agricultural science, biology, microbiology, food science, chemistry or a related degree is needed to become a quality control technician. Food safety certifications may be needed for specialization to implement certain food safety regulations.

To pursue a career as a Quality Control Technician :

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, mathematics, chemistry, biology, family and consumer sciences.

Where can I work?

Government inspection agencies, and food production, chemical, seed, medical, health companies and a variety of agricultural laboratory settings employ quality control technicians.

Future Job Market / Outlook

Good

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• Society of Quality Assurance
• Quality Assurance Association
• Society of Nutrition and Food Science