QA Technician

FLSA Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Location: Jensen Meat Company – Otay Mesa, CA 

Overview: 

Jensen Meat Company is seeking a detail-oriented and dependable Quality Assurance Technician to support our Production and Warehouse teams in ensuring food safety, product quality, and compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). The technician will perform quality control inspections, product testing, documentation, and data entry to ensure our products meet internal and external standards. 

The ideal candidate has experience working in food manufacturing environments, is familiar with HACCP and GMP protocols, and can work independently in cold or high-traffic environments. 

Primary Responsibilities: 

Quality Systems & Compliance 

• Serve as a liaison with USDA and FDA during inspections and audits. 
• Monitor compliance with SQF, HACCP, SOPs, SSOPs, AMS School Lunch Program, Organic standards, and prerequisite programs. 
• Perform process and facility audits to ensure food safety, food defense, and quality compliance. 
• Monitor GMP adherence; train employees and evaluate facility practices to support food safety protocols. 

Product & Process Inspection 

• Inspect, accept, or reject incoming shipments of raw materials, packaging, and ingredients. 
• Collect samples and measure product specifications (e.g., weight, thickness, temperature). 
• Operate QA tools such as thermometers, calipers, and weight scales. 
• Monitor and document in-process and finished product quality. 

Documentation & Reporting 

• Complete all required documentation accurately and in a timely manner. 
• Enter inspection data into quality control systems (e.g., PLEX or MS Excel). 
• Maintain logs related to temperature checks, sanitation, product evaluations, and corrective actions. 
• Assist with root cause analysis and initiate corrective/preventative actions (CAPAs) when necessary. 

Communication & Collaboration 

• Communicate effectively with operators, leads, supervisors, and managers. 
• Work closely with cross-functional departments including Production, Maintenance, and Shipping/Receiving. 
• Train employees on GMPs, food safety, and QA protocols as needed. 

Qualifications: 

• High school diploma or GED required. 
• Previous experience in quality assurance or food manufacturing preferred. 
• Familiarity with HACCP, GMP, SQF, and FDA/USDA food safety requirements. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word); experience with ERP/QA software (e.g., PLEX) a plus. 
• Strong communication skills—verbal and written in English; bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. 
• Self-starter with strong attention to detail and organizational skills. 
• Ability to train and speak effectively in front of teams and departments. 

Physical & Environmental Requirements: 

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and climb for long periods. 
• Ability to sit and use hands to type or use adding machines for extended durations. 
• Must be able to work in cold environments (approximately 45°F), around loud machinery, slippery floors, and heavy forklift traffic. 
• Ability to conduct exterior audits in varying weather conditions. 
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and work in fast-paced settings. 

Opportunities for Growth: 

• Develop technical expertise in food safety, regulatory compliance, and QA systems. 
• Advance to roles such as QA Lead or Quality Supervisor. 
• Access training and certifications in HACCP, SQF, Internal Auditing, and more. 

Why Join Jensen Meat Company? 

As a valued member of our team, you will enjoy: 

• Competitive hourly wage 
• Comprehensive benefits, including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), paid time off, and more 
• Career advancement opportunities in a growing food production environment 

How to Apply: 

Interested candidates should forward their resume and cover letter via email to [email protected]. 

Jensen Meat Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We do not make hiring decisions based on race, sex, color, religion, or any other protected category. Employment offers are contingent upon eligibility verification and passing a pre-employment drug screening.