Who we are

Since starting with a single family-owned artesian spring in Canada, Flow has grown rapidly. And our commitment to providing naturally alkaline, naturally delicious spring water without the plastic bottle has grown as well. As a Certified B Corporation, Flow meets the highest social and environmental standards. From our 100% recyclable, 68-75% renewable packaging to our minimal use of natural resources, Flow works to provide sustainable hydration and to protect our planet for generations to come.

Job Summary

The Quality Assurance (QA) Technician is responsible for ensuring that all food products manufactured at Flow Water Inc. meet or exceed established quality, food safety, and regulatory standards. This role involves conducting various tests, inspections, and audits throughout the production process, from raw materials to finished goods, to uphold product integrity, consumer safety, and brand reputation. The QA Technician plays a critical role in identifying and addressing potential quality issues, supporting continuous improvement initiatives, and maintaining a robust food safety culture within the facility.

Shift: Rotating Day, Afternoon, and Night shifts on weekdays and, or weekends.

Key Responsibilities

• Inspect incoming raw materials, ingredients, and packaging components for quality, damage, and compliance with specifications upon arrival.
• Verify Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for incoming materials.
• Approve or reject incoming materials based on established criteria.
• Perform regular checks and inspections on production lines, including weight checks, pH measurements, Brix levels, viscosity, packaging integrity, and visual inspections etc.
• Monitor critical control points (CCPs) and operational prerequisite programs (OPRPs) as defined in the HACCP plan.
• Collect samples at various stages of production for laboratory analysis.
• Verify correct labeling, packaging, and date coding on finished products.
• Communicate any deviations or non-conformances immediately to production supervisors and the QA Manager.
• Conduct sensory evaluations (taste, smell, appearance, texture) of finished products.
• Perform physical and chemical analysis on finished products according to specifications.
• Ensure proper retention and storage of finished product samples.
• Accurately complete all required quality control forms, logs, and reports in a timely manner.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of test results, inspections, non-conformances, and corrective actions.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and document non-conforming products or processes.
• Initiate Hold procedures for non-conforming products.
• Participate in root cause analysis for quality issues and assist in developing and implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
• Conduct pre-operational inspections to ensure equipment and facility cleanliness meets sanitation standards.
• Perform ATP swabbing and other hygiene verification tests.
• Monitor general plant hygiene and employee GMP adherence.
• Perform routine calibration checks on QA equipment (e.g., scales, thermometers, pH meters).
• Ensure all testing equipment is in good working order and properly maintained.
• Assist in internal and external audits
• Ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), HACCP principles, and other food safety regulations (e.g., CFIA, FDA where applicable).
• Stay informed about changes in food safety regulations and industry best practices.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline is preferred.
• High School Diploma with relevant experience in a food manufacturing QA role may be considered.
• 1-3 years of experience in a Quality Assurance or Quality Control role within the food manufacturing industry is highly preferred.
• Experience with HACCP, GMPs, and food safety standards is essential.
• Proficiency in conducting various physical, chemical, and sensory analyses of food products.
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment and procedures.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and quality management software is an asset.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong analytical skills.
• Effective communication skills (written and verbal) to interact with all levels of staff.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• Working Conditions
• Work primarily takes place on the production floor, which may involve exposure to varying temperatures, noise levels, and food allergens.
• May require standing for extended periods and occasional lifting of up to 25 lbs.
• Adherence to strict hygiene and safety protocols, including wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hairnets, beard nets, lab coats, and safety shoes.

Shift: Rotating Day, Afternoon, and Night shifts on weekdays and, or weekends