Quality Control Technician (Seasonal)

Who we are:

Easton & Co is a specialty chocolate company. For over 20 years we have focused on collaborative development with customers to deliver innovative artisanal confections at scale. 

We believe food is an important connection point, and that chocolate is a wonderful celebration of connection. We’re serious about celebrating and creating products that are visually and tastefully exceptional. We take a quality first approach: responsibly sourcing the finest ingredients, investing in innovation, R&D and quality processes – so we can deliver the finest luxury products to our clients and their customers. Our tremendously talented team is what sets us apart. Our team is composed of dynamic people who love what they do and are committed to pushing boundaries, creating value, and working together. Join Easton & Co today!

Position Overview:

The Quality Control (QC) Technician is responsible for ensuring all products meet established quality and food safety standards by conducting quality checks, monitoring production documentation, training employees, and supporting compliance with regulatory and internal programs (e.g., SQF, HACCP, FSMA). This role involves inspection, testing, and communication across departments to proactively identify and address issues related to quality and food safety.

This is a seasonal, non-exempt, non-supervisory position based out of our Richmond, California facility.

The anticipated weekly worked hours will be 35-40 hours, which may include overtime.

Anticipated shifts: 6:30am - 2:30pm OR 11:30am - 7:30pm

This season will begin in May 2025 and last through December 2025.

What You’ll Do:

Quality & Food Safety Inspections

• Conduct quality checks of production lines and review production paperwork to ensure compliance with company standards.
• Monitor product weights and communicate deviations to appropriate departments for corrective action.
• Conduct finished goods inspections and verify labeling and packaging accuracy.
• Perform analytical testing on raw materials and finished products for weight, color, particle size, flavor, and visual standards.
• Verify and document proper allergen cleanup during production changeovers.
• Participate in sensory evaluations as required.
• Conduct internal food safety self-inspections (GMPs, Glass/Brittle Plastic/Ceramic audits, etc.).
• Perform employee GMP and PPE visual inspections with documentation.
• Maintain the ingredient and product retention process.

Equipment and Documentation

• Verify calibration of measuring equipment (e.g., scales), document any deviations, and take corrective action or notify QA Manager.
• Hold non-conforming raw materials, packaging, WIP, and finished goods; ensure proper disposition procedures are followed.
• Ensure all documentation related to quality checks, equipment verification, and inspections is complete and accurate.

Training and Compliance

• Provide new employee training on basic food safety and GMPs .
• Demonstrate adherence to FDA regulations, GMPs, OSHA standards, SQF, HACCP, and internal compliance procedures.
• Help maintain SQF systems and support FSMA compliance efforts.
• React quickly and effectively to quality or safety issues as they arise.
• Report any potential contamination, policy violations, or suspicious activity to management immediately.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working at a computer
• Ability to prioritize competing demands and time sensitive situations
• Ability to stand and walk throughout scheduled work shift
• Frequent bending, twisting, power-gripping, stooping required
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 lbs

What You Bring:

• Experience working in a food manufacturing setting with progressive responsibilities
• Ability to work early mornings/early evenings (as early as 6:30am or as late as 7:30 pm)
• 3+ years of experience in Quality Assurance, Food Safety, or a related field preferred
• Bilingual in English and Spanish (verbal and written) preferred
• HACCP experience preferred
• HACCP/PCQI certification(s) preferred
• Experience with sanitation in a food manufacturing environment preferred
• Knowledge of SQF programs and FSMA compliance support a plus
• Proficient in basic math and Microsoft Office applications
• Willingness and ability to learn new skills and processes
• Strong problem-solving, judgment, and decision-making skills
• Demonstrate a strong sense of urgency, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and respectfully across all levels
• Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills
• High attention to detail and ability to manage competing priorities effectively

Compensation Range: $23 - $28 / hour

Easton & Co is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Easton & Co is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. If you require accommodation(s), please contact the Talent Representative (HR) at recruiting@easton-co.com