Thermal Process Authority (Finance)

Purpose of the Position

Uses expert knowledge of thermal processing to ensure that all products produced in the company's wet pet food facilities are safe for public consumption with respect to microbiological hazards.

Essential Position Responsibilities - This is a Salary Exempt position.

Establishes thermal processing requirements for all Simmons wet pet food facilities. Conducts all necessary testing to establish thermal process requirements for all wet pet food products produced by Simmons. Testing includes but is not limited to heat penetration, temperature distribution and heat distribution studies. Takes into account characteristics of the company's different types of thermal processing systems to establish thermal processing requirements for all new or revised products and container types/sizes. Uses results of tests to calculate appropriate thermal processing parameters. Reviews all proposed changes to Simmons Pet Foods thermal processing equipment to ensure changes will not impact effectiveness of thermal processes.

Makes dispositions of products involved in thermal processing deviations. Evaluates the effects of improperly delivered thermal processes occurring in all wet pet food facilities and determines if adequate lethality is applied to a level of commercial sterility. Determines if additional testing must be conducted to make an evaluation, at times the The Process Authority will be required to personally conduct additional testing. Issues final product disposition of deviated products to facilities in a signed formal document as required by FDA regulations.

Collaborates with cross functional departments. Works closely with product development and plant personnel to ensure compliance and understanding of processes. Trains plant personnel on proper thermal processing procedures. Exercises dotted line supervision over the Quality Assurance Auditors. Optimizes thermal process with regards to food safety, quality and operational efficiency.

Participates as a member of the Team . Participates in the 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 reinforce 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, LEAN); 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 person in this position and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person as 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. Works in the plant under extreme humid and warm conditions as needed. Occasionally lifts up to 50 lbs.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): As required by visiting facility.

Travel: Up to 25% domestic and international travel to and from multiple facilities or work-sites, possibly requiring overnight stays.

Technical Experience: 4 years' experience in food canning with specific knowledge in Thermal Processing operations. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Calsoft to conduct testing.

Industry Experience: Food processing organization.

Minimum Education : Bachelor's Degree in Science or Engineering. Better Process Control School is required.

Preferred Education : Masters or PhD in science, engineering or related field.