Quality Assurance Specialist – Hershey

Quality Assurance Specialist – Hershey vacancy at a leading Chocolate and confectionery processing company – Hershey’s in Pennsylvania, USA

Job Responsibilities

• Serve as the on-shift QA authority, working closely with production teams to ensure all processes comply with Hershey’s product safety and quality standards as well as applicable regulatory guidelines.
• Provide direct support on the production floor, assisting with troubleshooting and resolving quality-related issues as they arise.
• Develop and deliver training sessions for plant employees to strengthen understanding and implementation of food safety and quality practices.
• Reinforce training through regular follow-ups and coaching to ensure consistent application of best practices on the floor.
• Plan and conduct routine audits in line with Hershey’s Product Excellence Program (PEP), HACCP plans, and environmental compliance standards.

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• Review and verify Critical Control Point (CCP) records and other quality documentation to ensure compliance with internal and external requirements.
• Investigate quality incidents, perform root cause analysis, identify trends, and initiate corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) where necessary.
• Document findings thoroughly and communicate results to relevant stakeholders.
• Utilize computer systems such as SAP, Line Production Reporting (LPR), and Cost of Non-Conformance (CONC) to support investigations and maintain accurate records.

HACCP & Food Safety Systems:

• Perform regular internal audits of HACCP and prerequisite programs, report findings, and ensure timely closure of non-conformances.
• Conduct monthly sanitation and other prerequisite system audits to verify the effectiveness of the site’s food safety program.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives through active involvement in PEP elements including Master Control Plans, SSOPs, HACCP, ACCP, and weight control programs.
• Provide QA support for new product launches, engineering trials, and other site projects.

Job Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline — or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience: 1–5 years of QA/QC experience in the food manufacturing industry or a related field.
• Certifications: HACCP certification highly preferred; PCQI certification is an advantage.

• Strong knowledge of FDA, USDA, and state food safety regulations and industry standards.
• Working knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), HACCP, PCQI, and Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) requirements.
• Solid understanding of sanitation, pest control, and environmental compliance practices.
• Demonstrated ability to perform audits, interpret findings, and implement corrective actions.
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities in a fast-paced production environment.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to train, influence, and coach employees at all levels.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Access) and enterprise systems such as SAP and Net Weight systems.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends, based on production needs.
• Physical capability to perform laboratory testing, climb stairs and ladders, and handle moderately heavy equipment or product samples as needed.