## Food Safety and Quality Assurance Technician at Sysco: Your Next Career Move in Newport, California Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for food safety and quality assurance? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment where your contributions directly impact the quality of products reaching consumers' tables? If so, a career as a Food Safety and Quality Assurance (FSQA) Technician at Sysco in Newport, California, might be the perfect fit for you. Sysco, the global leader in foodservice distribution, is seeking a dedicated FSQA Technician to join its team in Newport. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the company's commitment to providing safe, high-quality products to its customers. In this comprehensive overview, we will delve into the role's responsibilities, required qualifications, benefits, career path, and more, providing you with a complete picture of what it means to be an FSQA Technician at Sysco. ### Role Overview: Ensuring Food Safety and Quality from Source to Delivery As an FSQA Technician at Sysco, you will play a critical role in monitoring and evaluating food safety and quality assurance programs. You will work closely with various departments, including operations, sales, transportation, and maintenance, to ensure compliance with corporate and regulatory requirements. Your primary focus will be on maintaining the highest standards of food safety and quality throughout the supply chain. This position requires a strong understanding of HACCP principles, sanitation procedures, pest control, good manufacturing practices, and other FSQA-related programs. You will be responsible for conducting inspections, audits, and evaluations to identify potential hazards and ensure that corrective actions are implemented effectively. You will also be involved in training employees on FSQA policies and procedures, contributing to a culture of food safety throughout the organization. ### A Day in the Life of an FSQA Technician While the specific tasks may vary depending on the day, here's a glimpse into what a typical day might look like for an FSQA Technician at Sysco: * **Morning:** * Review production schedules and identify potential food safety or quality concerns. * Conduct pre-operational inspections of processing areas to ensure sanitation standards are met. * Verify that equipment is functioning properly and calibrated accurately. * Collect samples of raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods for testing. * **Afternoon:** * Analyze test results and identify any deviations from quality standards. * Investigate and address customer complaints related to food safety or quality. * Conduct internal audits of FSQA programs and procedures. * Assist in the development and implementation of corrective action plans. * Train employees on FSQA policies and procedures. * **Evening:** * Review and update FSQA documentation, including HACCP plans and sanitation procedures. * Prepare reports on FSQA activities and findings. * Communicate with suppliers and customers regarding FSQA matters. * Stay up-to-date on the latest food safety regulations and industry best practices. ### Why Newport, California? A Vibrant Location with Career Opportunities Newport, California, offers a unique blend of career opportunities and a high quality of life. Located in the heart of Northern California, Newport is a thriving community with a strong economy and a diverse population. The city is home to a variety of businesses, including Sysco, which provides ample employment opportunities for professionals in various fields. Beyond career prospects, Newport boasts a beautiful natural environment with stunning coastal scenery and access to outdoor recreational activities. The city is also known for its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural scene. Living in Newport offers a balanced lifestyle with opportunities for both professional and personal growth. ### Career Path: Growth Opportunities within Sysco Sysco is committed to providing its employees with opportunities for career advancement. As an FSQA Technician, you can progress along a variety of career paths within the company. Some potential career paths include: * **FSQA Specialist:** With experience and additional training, you can advance to the role of FSQA Specialist, where you will have more responsibility for developing and implementing FSQA programs. * **FSQA Supervisor:** With strong leadership skills and a proven track record, you can become an FSQA Supervisor, overseeing a team of FSQA Technicians and Specialists. * **Quality Assurance Manager:** With extensive experience and a deep understanding of quality management principles, you can advance to the role of Quality Assurance Manager, responsible for overseeing all aspects of quality assurance within a specific facility or region. * **Corporate FSQA Roles:** Sysco also offers opportunities to work in corporate FSQA roles, where you can contribute to the development and implementation of company-wide food safety and quality initiatives. Sysco provides its employees with access to training and development programs to help them enhance their skills and advance their careers. The company also offers mentorship opportunities, allowing you to learn from experienced professionals in the field. ### Salary and Benefits: Competitive Compensation and Comprehensive Benefits Package Sysco offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package to its employees. The salary for an FSQA Technician in Newport, California, typically ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. Sysco also offers an incentive plan. The benefits package includes: * **Health Insurance:** Medical, dental, and vision coverage. * **Prescription Drug Coverage** * **Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA)** * **Paid Time Off (PTO):** Vacation, sick leave, and holidays. * **401(k) Retirement Plan:** With company match. * **Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)** * **Life Insurance** * **Disability Insurance:** Short-term and long-term. * **Employee Assistance Program (EAP)** * **Tuition Reimbursement** * **Professional Development Opportunities** * **Employee Discounts:** On Sysco products. * **Wellness Programs** * **Relocation Assistance:** If applicable. Sysco is committed to providing its employees with a supportive and rewarding work environment. The company values its employees and offers opportunities for growth, development, and advancement. ### Sysco Culture: A Commitment to Food Safety and Employee Well-being Sysco's culture is built on a foundation of integrity, teamwork, and customer service. The company is committed to providing safe, high-quality products to its customers and creating a positive work environment for its employees. Sysco values diversity and inclusion and is committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome and respected. The company also supports employee volunteerism and community involvement. ### How to Apply: Joining the Sysco Team in Newport If you are interested in joining the Sysco team as an FSQA Technician in Newport, California, you can apply online through the Sysco careers website. The application process typically involves submitting a resume and cover letter and completing an online assessment. If you meet the qualifications for the position, you will be contacted for an interview. The interview process may involve multiple rounds of interviews with hiring managers and other members of the FSQA team. ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. **What are the key responsibilities of an FSQA Technician at Sysco?** The key responsibilities include monitoring FSQA programs, ensuring compliance with regulations, conducting inspections and audits, training employees, and addressing customer complaints. 2. **What qualifications are required for this position?** The required qualifications include experience in the meat and/or seafood industry, knowledge of HACCP principles, and strong communication and problem-solving skills. 3. **What is the salary range for an FSQA Technician at Sysco in Newport, California?** The salary range typically falls between $45,000 and $65,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. 4. **What benefits does Sysco offer its employees?** Sysco offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) retirement plan, and employee discounts. 5. **What career paths are available for FSQA Technicians at Sysco?** Potential career paths include FSQA Specialist, FSQA Supervisor, Quality Assurance Manager, and corporate FSQA roles. 6. **What is the company culture like at Sysco?** Sysco's culture is built on integrity, teamwork, customer service, and a commitment to food safety and employee well-being. 7. **How can I apply for the FSQA Technician position at Sysco in Newport?** You can apply online through the Sysco careers website. 8. **Is experience in both meat and seafood industries required?** Experience in either meat or seafood is acceptable, with raw meat or seafood experience being preferred. 9. **What kind of physical demands are associated with the role?** The role requires standing, walking, lifting up to 100 pounds occasionally, and specific vision abilities. 10. **Is certification required for this role?** While specific certifications aren't explicitly required, formal training in TQM, SPC, HACCP, and CFIA/FDA regulations is highly beneficial. ### Conclusion: A Rewarding Career in Food Safety and Quality Assurance A career as an FSQA Technician at Sysco in Newport, California, offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the company's commitment to food safety and quality. If you are a detail-oriented professional with a passion for food safety and a desire to grow your career, we encourage you to apply for this exciting position. Join the Sysco team and become part of a company that is dedicated to providing safe, high-quality products to its customers and creating a positive work environment for its employees.