Since our founding in 1951, Swanson Group has proudly remained a multigenerational, family-owned company. We are committed to fostering a welcome and supportive workplace where every team member is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.
At Swanson Group, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, working alongside dedicated employees who share a passion for excellence. We believe in building a culture that encourages growth, collaboration, and long-term success.
Explore our current job openings and discover how you can become a valued member of the Swanson Group family today!
Position Title: Quality Control Technician
Reports To: Quality Lead and Plant Manager
Department: Dean Resources Pellet Mill
Hours per shift: Employee works 12-hour shifts, with two 10-minute breaks, and 30-minute unpaid lunch.
Wage: Level 4/5 (Level 5 after WWPA grade certification)
Position Purpose: Maximize product quality through consistent and accurate machine and product testing. Works closely with production supervisor, maintenance, other Quality Control personnel, and operators. Always complies with safety regulations and other company policies. Ensures our core values are consistently demonstrated in the way we conduct our operations and interact with each other.
Position Functions:
Quality Control Technician: Essential Functions*
These duties are designated as ADA Essential Functions and must be performed in this job.
Identify product quality and manufacturing issues. Investigates causes for these issues, makes recommendations, implement solutions. Responsible for QC testing documentation and accuracy throughout the mill.
Familiar with the operation of all machinery and how each machine can impact product quality.
Fill out detailed data forms and enter data into computer.
Performs analysis and variance studies, both established and new ones that will benefit operations.
Raise quality awareness through training sessions. Explain issue of value versus quantity, and advocate quality standards with co-workers.
Maintains and encourages high levels of communication between operators, supervisors, and maintenance.
Act as a relief to any positions in the plant for breaks, etc.
Non-Essential Functions
These duties are secondary in nature and are not classified as ADA essential.
The worker may be required to rotate to different positions for cross training purposes or to facilitate production. Job duties for other positions are outlined in their individual job descriptions. Assist Co-Workers or maintenance personnel in basic maintenance and upkeep of machine.
Working Environment: (1) Inside 80%, average temperature 70 degrees F (2) Outside 20%; extreme low temperature 10 degrees F, extreme high temperature 105 degrees F. Noise or vibration: Machine noise to include machine being operated as well as other machines close by including Front end loader and forklift. Hazards: See Job Hazard Analysis. (3) Atmospheric conditions: Fumes: Wood, Dust: Limited, Mist: Water, Odors: Wood particle, Gasses: None, Poor Ventilation: None
Personal Protective Equipment Required: (1) Eye Protection. (2) Hearing Protection. (3) Blue Atlas gloves. (4) Approved Footwear (5) High Visibility Clothing.
Physical Demands: See the attached Job/Task Evaluation and Physical Capabilities portion; this position requires constant use of hearing and vision, frequent pushing/pulling and reaching, and occasional lifting/carrying/ more than 50 lbs.
Skills: Use vision/hearing continuously. Reading and speech required to communicate comprehension of Job Hazard Analysis, machine specific lockout procedures, monthly safety training, etc. Worker generally works alone with little supervision. Must be self-directed in identifying and efficiently completing each task. Ability to prioritize, organize and make necessary decisions.
Safety: (1) Do only maintenance you are trained to do and keep all body parts out of machinery. (2) Always use our 14-step lockout/tagout procedure before doing any maintenance, clearing jams, or getting into machinery for any reason; be aware of stored energy. (3) Always use proper body mechanics (ex: don't overreach, get help as needed to push loads out). (4) Use proper PPE (gloves, eye protection, hearing protection). (5) Be aware of and always communicate with your co-worker (ex: forklift driver). (6) Will be required to read and write during safety training.
Equal Opportunity Employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other status protected by law.