Purpose of the Position

Responsible for all things related to finished product from a quality perspective, including document review, verification, revisions, training, specifications, sample submission to outside labs, holds, dispositions, and releases. In addition, this position is to ensure the product(s) are consistently produced, stored and shipped in a timely and efficient manner according to Simmons, customer and regulatory guidelines.

Essential Position Responsibilities - This is a Salary Non-Exempt position.

Conducts product evaluations in regards to post process, incubation and secondary packaging. Ensures all finished product evaluations, as well as secondary packaging evaluations, are conducted in accordance with SOPs. Responsible for areas of product improvement in response to post-process evaluations.

Supports product testing. Collaborates with the Raw Material Technical Manager to ensure reviews of finished products being tested for new raw materials or suppliers are completed with appropriate testing and possibly pictures as a part of the Supplier Approval process. Supports Early Release program. Gather information needed so that management can evaluate and schedule the release of product prior to the normal incubation period. Ensures all finished products, including R&D test products, are sent to outside labs for all required testing.

Initiates communication with customers in regards to products involved in our positive release program. Audits finished product analysis; ensures samples are conveyed to the customer for review and that products are released once positive release has been obtained. Supports and trains laboratory technicians in key criteria used in daily evaluations and sample gathering. Works closely with production to improve both finished product quality and in process quality. Gather information to provide customer-complaint responses. E nsures customer samples are sent out for each run of commercialized product per customer's requests.

Monitors daily panels for continuous improvement options by working closely with the production floor. In conjunction with the Lab Tech, inputs finished product analysis into IQS/JDE in a timely manner. Works with R&D to monitor that Finished Product Specifications are up to date and correct. Reviews and maintains upkeep of all QA related logs and verifications.

Manages and maintains equipment calibration for all finished product related equipment & other QA related devices.

Participates as a member of the Team . Participates in ongoing development, communication and implementation of team concepts, programs and policies; coordinates work to ensure best practices with all team members. Attends appropriate team meetings. As a member of the Team, fosters strong cohesiveness regarding all major issues; e.g., direction, annual plan, budget, policy changes, etc. Accepts responsibility to quickly identify any areas that lack cohesiveness, bringing them to the attention of the team leader and working with the team in a supportive manner to resolve issues and actively look for ways, and reinforces actions needed, to achieve synergy possible within the larger organization.

Simmons Operating systems principles and objectives: Is familiar with Simmons' established operating systems (e.g. quality, security, office environment, company policies); understands the responsibility to maintain familiarity with the systems and this position's role in support of these systems - including a consideration of the impact of individual actions on the systems and the responsibility to communicate concerns and improvement ideas.

Performs other duties as necessary in support of business objectives: This position description is intended to guide the activities of the Finished Product Specialist and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person to the work of this function nor is it intended that this describe all the work that may be required of the person in this position.

Physical Activities : Enters and locates information on a computer. Visually verifies information, often in small print. Communicates with Customers, Vendors, or Employees via telephone, in person, and/or electronic mail. May present information to small or large groups. Must be able to work in various temperatures. Move about in a manufacturing environment and surrounding property. May travel via car or plane to various work locations.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ear Plugs, Hair Net

Travel: Occasionally for training purposes.

Technical Experience: Minimum 3 years experience supporting quality assurance. Strong chemical and microbiological methodology/analytical skills. Experienced within a manufacturing/process environment with knowledge of HACCP and Good Manufacturing Practices. Ability to manage multi-functional activities and to work in a dynamic operation with multiple priorities. Computer skills required; functional knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Outlook required. A highly responsive ability to react to daily production priorities in a calm and focused manner.

Industry Experience: Food and beverage operations experience including thermal processing and knowledge of SPC.

Minimum Education : High School diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Education : Bachelor's Degree in Food Science, Biology, Microbiology or Chemistry.