How to become a food quality assurance technician

How to become a Food Quality Assurance Technician

Becoming a food quality assurance technician involves a combination of education, practical experience, and relevant skills. Here are the steps you can take to pursue a career in this field:

• Acquire Relevant Education: Consider obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field. Many employers prefer candidates with a background in these disciplines.
• Gain Practical Experience: Look for internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions in the food industry. Practical experience provides hands-on exposure to quality assurance processes and laboratory techniques.
• Pursue Certification (Optional): While not always required, obtaining certifications related to quality assurance can enhance your credentials. For example, certifications from organizations like the American Society for Quality (ASQ) or the International Food Protection Training Institute (IFPTI) may be beneficial (see below).
• Apply for Positions: Look for job openings for entry-level quality assurance positions or related roles within food production facilities, laboratories, or quality control departments.
• On-the-Job Training: Once employed, be open to continuous learning and on-the-job training. Familiarize yourself with the specific quality control procedures and systems implemented by your employer.
• Seek Advanced Education (Optional): Consider pursuing advanced degrees or certifications as you progress in your career. This can open up opportunities for leadership roles or specialization in specific areas of quality assurance.

Certifications
Certifications can enhance the professional credentials of food quality assurance technicians and demonstrate their expertise in the field. Here are some relevant certifications:

• Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) by the American Society for Quality (ASQ): The CQA certification from ASQ is suitable for professionals involved in quality assurance, including food quality assurance technicians. It covers principles and practices of auditing and emphasizes the importance of quality systems.
• HACCP Certification by the International HACCP Alliance: Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification is essential for those involved in ensuring food safety. The International HACCP Alliance offers certification programs that cover the principles and application of HACCP in the food industry.
• Certified Food Scientist (CFS) by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT): The CFS certification is offered by IFT and is designed for professionals in the food industry, including quality assurance technicians. It validates expertise in food science principles and practices.
• Food Safety Manager Certification (e.g., ServSafe): Many food quality assurance roles involve aspects of food safety. Certifications like ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification are recognized by the industry and demonstrate proficiency in safe food handling practices.
• Preventive Controls for Human Food (PCQI) by the Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance (FSPCA): The PCQI certification is relevant for professionals involved in designing and implementing food safety plans, including those related to preventive controls. It is often required for compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).
• ISO 22000 Lead Auditor by IRCA (International Register of Certificated Auditors): ISO 22000 is an international standard for food safety management systems. The lead auditor certification is suitable for individuals involved in auditing and ensuring compliance with ISO 22000 requirements.
• Certified Quality Technician (CQT) by ASQ: The CQT certification is offered by ASQ and is applicable to individuals involved in various aspects of quality control, making it relevant for quality assurance technicians.
• Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM) by the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA): NEHA offers the CPFM certification, which focuses on food safety and management practices. It is suitable for professionals responsible for overseeing food safety in various settings.

The International Food Protection Training Institute (IFPTI) Certifications:

• Food Protection Professional (FPP) Credential: The FPP credential by IFPTI is designed for food protection professionals, including those in quality assurance roles. It covers a broad range of topics related to food safety and is suitable for individuals seeking comprehensive expertise.
• Applied Science of Food Safety Certificate: IFPTI's Applied Science of Food Safety Certificate is a program that provides a deeper understanding of the scientific principles underlying food safety. This certification is beneficial for professionals involved in quality assurance processes.
• Training for Food Protection Professionals (TFPP) Certificate: IFPTI offers the TFPP certificate program, which focuses on enhancing the skills of food protection professionals. It covers various aspects of food safety, including risk analysis, management, and communication.
• National Food Safety Training, Education, Extension, Outreach, and Technical Assistance Program Certificate (NTEOTAP): The NTEOTAP certificate by IFPTI is designed to provide comprehensive training in food safety. It covers areas such as education, extension, outreach, and technical assistance related to food protection.
• Food Safety Leadership Training Certificate: IFPTI's Food Safety Leadership Training Certificate is tailored for individuals in leadership roles within the food safety and quality assurance domain. It emphasizes leadership skills and strategic thinking in the context of food protection.