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QA Lead

Job Description

Quality Lead – 2nd Shift

Location:

Kraft Heinz – Cedar Rapids

4601 C Street SW

Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404

Plant Overview:

  • 3-Shift Operation

  • Non- Union Facility with approximately 200 hourly staff members which are a mix of temporary and full-time associates.

  • 100% Food Service, 4 bag soup lines, 1 tub line, 18 Kettles, 5 Filling lines, and 4 packaging lines.

  • Products include Frozen Soups and Macaroni & Cheese

Company History:  Kraft Heinz in Cedar Rapids started as Ashby Soups and was originated in the mid 1980’s by Jamie and Shannon Ashby, along with their mother, using family held recipes for many kinds of soups. In the 1990s’ the name was changed to Quality Chef Foods. Heinz acquired Quality Chef foods in the mid 2000’s. In 2015 Kraft and Heinz merged to become Kraft Heinz as we know it today.

Community Overview:

The Cedar Rapids and Iowa City area is known as the cultural corridor.  There is always something to do, a site to visit or a show to see! Also, from Cedar Rapids there is an easy commute, great school communities, low crime rates and bike friendly. Cost of living ratio great.  Cedar Rapids is a vibrant city, encompassing unique attractions, exciting events, specialty shopping, a dynamic art scene, and a large variety of restaurant and nightlife options. You’ll find that Cedar Rapids offers one of the best places to live, work and play in the Midwest.

More information on Cedar Rapids, IA can be found at: http://www.cedar-rapids.org/

Job Overview:

Are you ready to join a team that produces quality products that are amongst over 50 household brands in the U.S.?  This is a place for you to create your career and make a difference! Kraft Heinz in Cedar Rapids is looking for candidates that want to make great soups!

Provide leadership and support for QA department testing, inspection, and evaluation practices as well as support functions related to materials, production, and sanitation incident management. Assists with planning and implementing food safety programs, such as but not limited to, analytical and micro testing, material coordination, non-conforming product, allergen testing compliance, HACCP, Sanitation, QRMP and QA system management. Initiate and complete food safety incident investigations through using root cause analysis. Complete routine auditing of practices and documentation as assigned as well as review of training, records, and documentation. Complete validation and verification studies of the food safety programs. Complete additional projects related to quality improvements or cost saving initiatives as assigned. Strong leadership, organizational, and technical skills required for this position.

Responsibilities & Duties:

  • Involved in leadership of overall activities of the quality assurance department.

  • Training and development of department technicians.

  • Initiating root cause analysis and problem-solving practices to resolve incidents and held product.

  • Participate and lead continuous improvement initiatives.

  • Support to all testing functions of the department as needed.

  • Knowledge of and assistance to regulatory programs to ensure the factory meets all FDA and USDA regulatory requirements, as well as internal quality system requirements.

  • Monitor food safety practices including HACCP and allergen programs.

  • Assist with organization of internal and external audits.

  • Develop, implement, and maintain quality system policies.

  • Monitor quality assurance, production, and material inspection, adherence, and compliance as assigned.

  • Aid in the advancement of the quality systems and programs.

  • Follow all company safety policies and provide recommendations for improvements of processes and programs.

  • Responsible for following all Food Safety Policies and Safety Procedures.

  • Responsible for Q-RMP standards implementation as defined by the accountability list document.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science-Biology/Chemistry/Food Science or equivalent job experience preferred.

  • 5+ years of Quality Assurance experience preferred.

  • Able to obtain HACCP certification.

  • Proven professional relationships with regulatory agency personnel.

  • Able to effectively communicate verbally and in writing, strong leadership, and task management skills, troubleshoot issues with little supervision.

  • Communicate clearly in person, by phone and in writing and Handle stressful situations.

  • Analyze, research, and resolve problems, with good follow-up skills.

  • Responsible for Q-RMP standards implementation as defined by the accountability list document.

  • Employees will follow all safety protocols and perform their job responsibilities in a safe manner. Safety is everyone’s responsibility.

  • Successful candidates must have the willingness to:

Always perform to the highest level of competence. Cooperate as a team. Be open, especially with information and knowledge. Trust and be trustworthy. Respect others – customers, suppliers, colleagues – and yourself. Be accountable for one’s actions.

Work Schedule:

2nd Shift

Benefits & Compensation Overview:

  • Medical.

  • Dental.

  • Vision.

  • Additional perks:  Pet Insurance, (EAP) Employee Assistance Program, etc.

  • (HRA) Health Reimbursement Account or (HSA) Health Savings Account.

  • Pay Rate: $26.14

  • Start earning PTO at hire, generous

  • Non-Union (FOIP) Field Operations Incentive Plan- BONUS PLAN

Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family’s needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.

You’ll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:

  • Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments

  • Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Recognition, Training

  • Emotional – Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs

  • Financial – 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location(s)

Quality Chef - Cedar Rapids

Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com.

Average salary estimate

$54490 / YEARLY (est.)
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$54490K
$54490K

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What You Should Know About QA Lead, Kraft Heinz

The Kraft Heinz Company is on the lookout for a talented QA Lead to join their vibrant team in Cedar Rapids, Iowa! If you're passionate about ensuring the quality of food products that reach households across the U.S., this role is tailor-made for you. As the QA Lead, you’ll play a pivotal role in overseeing the Quality Assurance department, focusing on testing, inspection, and evaluation of our delicious soups and macaroni & cheese. You will lead a dedicated team, providing mentorship and training while implementing robust food safety programs including HACCP and allergen compliance. Problem-solving is at the heart of this position as you will be responsible for troubleshooting quality incidents through thorough root cause analysis, thus ensuring that we consistently deliver products of the highest standards. We are committed to continuous improvement, and you will spearhead initiatives to enhance quality practices. Kraft Heinz in Cedar Rapids has a rich history, being a key manufacturer in the region, and we take pride in our vibrant community that is friendly, dynamic, and culturally rich. Join us to not only make great products but to also thrive in a supportive and engaging workplace. Whether it's participating in audits, developing quality system policies, or simply enjoying the community around you, being a QA Lead with Kraft Heinz is where your career can truly flourish!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for QA Lead Role at Kraft Heinz
What responsibilities does a QA Lead have at Kraft Heinz Cedar Rapids?

As a QA Lead at Kraft Heinz in Cedar Rapids, you'll oversee the entire quality assurance operations, ensuring that we meet high standards for food safety and quality. This includes leading a team of QA technicians, conducting audits, implementing food safety programs like HACCP and managing incident investigations. You'll use your strong leadership skills to foster a culture of quality and safety in our dynamic workplace.

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What qualifications are required to become a QA Lead at Kraft Heinz Cedar Rapids?

To qualify for the QA Lead position at Kraft Heinz Cedar Rapids, candidates should ideally possess a Bachelor of Science in Biology, Chemistry, or Food Science, along with at least 5 years of quality assurance experience. Strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills are essential, as well as the ability to work independently and manage stressful situations. A HACCP certification is also preferred.

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How does the QA Lead contribute to food safety at Kraft Heinz Cedar Rapids?

The QA Lead plays a crucial role in maintaining food safety at Kraft Heinz Cedar Rapids by overseeing the implementation of food safety programs, conducting routine audits, and ensuring compliance with FDA and USDA regulations. By leading root cause analysis for any quality incidents, you will be instrumental in upholding the trust our customers place in us.

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What is the work schedule for a QA Lead at Kraft Heinz Cedar Rapids?

The QA Lead position at Kraft Heinz in Cedar Rapids operates on the 2nd shift, allowing for opportunities to work collaboratively with the team during evening hours as production ramps up. This schedule not only suits those looking for flexibility but also allows you to contribute to the quality assurance processes actively throughout the day.

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What benefits and compensation can a QA Lead expect at Kraft Heinz Cedar Rapids?

As a QA Lead at Kraft Heinz Cedar Rapids, you'll enjoy a competitive pay rate starting at $26.14 alongside a comprehensive benefits package. This includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), and various perks like pet insurance and an Employee Assistance Program. Plus, you'll start accruing PTO right from your first day!

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Common Interview Questions for QA Lead
What is your experience with food safety programs as a QA Lead?

Share your previous experience with food safety programs like HACCP, providing specific examples of programs you've implemented or managed. Highlight how your role contributed to resolving compliance issues and ensuring product quality.

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Can you describe a time when you led a team through a quality incident?

Discuss a specific incident where you invoked your leadership skills to guide your team during a crisis. Describe the problem, your approach to using root cause analysis, and the outcome, emphasizing what you learned.

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How do you stay current with industry regulations?

Explain your methods for staying informed on FDA, USDA, and other regulatory changes. Mention any professional organizations you engage with, webinars you attend, or industry publications you read.

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What strategies do you use for effective team communication?

Talk about your preferred communication strategies, such as regular check-ins, utilizing technology for transparency, and fostering an open-door policy. Emphasize the importance of clear communication in a quality assurance environment.

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How do you approach continuous improvement in QA processes?

Describe your previous initiatives related to continuous improvement. Discuss methodologies you've implemented, such as Six Sigma or Lean principles, and how they've impacted quality assurance positively.

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What is your experience with auditing processes?

Provide detailed insights into your auditing experience, whether internal or external, and describe how you've ensured adherence to quality standards. Discuss any challenges faced during audits and how you overcame them.

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Describe your knowledge of allergen control programs.

Discuss your familiarity with allergen control measures. Highlight specific programs you've developed or enhanced and the significance of allergen management in food safety.

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How would you handle a disagreement with a team member regarding quality standards?

Explain your conflict resolution strategies, focusing on the importance of open dialogue and consensus. Provide an example where your approach resulted in a productive resolution.

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What tools have you used for data analysis and reporting in quality assurance?

List any specific analytical tools or software you have experience with, such as statistical analysis software or quality management systems. Explain how these tools have enhanced your reporting and decision-making processes.

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What are your ultimate goals in a QA Lead position?

Share your vision for the QA Lead role, focusing on your aspirations for both personal development and team growth. Highlight your commitment to maintaining high food safety standards and improving quality systems continuously.

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Kraft Heinz is a global food company with a delicious heritage. With iconic and emerging food and beverage brands around the world, we deliver the best taste, fun and quality to every meal table we touch. We’re on a mission to disrupt not only...

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
March 31, 2025

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