Packaging and Quality Control Lead

at  Crop Defenders Ltd

Job Title: Packaging and Quality Control Lead
Location: Windsor, ON
About Crop Defenders Ltd.:
Crop Defenders Ltd. is a pioneering biological crop protection company dedicated to producing and supplying ecological alternatives to pesticides for consumable crop growers. Our mission is to improve the lives of millions by enabling growers to produce ecologically grown crops that are safer for farmers, consumers, and the ecosystem. Join us in transforming sustainable farming!
Job Purpose:
The Packaging and Quality Control Lead is responsible for ensuring the timely and accurate packaging of orders with strict adherence to quality standards. This role focuses on reducing shrinkage and operational waste, while guaranteeing that all products meet the necessary quality and safety specifications. The role involves close collaboration with logistics, procurement, and customer support teams to ensure the highest standards of product quality and customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities:

1. Order Fulfillment and Coordination:

• Ensure all outgoing orders are processed, packaged, and staged on time, in full (OTIF), and within specifications, aiming for the lowest labor cost.
• Communicate promptly with Customer Support and IPM Lead about issues with quality to proactively let customers know order changes so customers are informed.
• Coordinate with the Logistics department to plan and execute orders, minimizing delays and enhancing customer satisfaction.

1. Quality Control and Inspection:

• Manage quality inspection procedures for all biocontrol species, ensuring compliance with established quality standards.
• Perform and oversee mock emergence tests, fecundity tests, and other quality assessments, providing data-driven feedback to Procurement.
• Manage final audit processes for all outgoing products, ensuring that packaging, storage, and shipping meet quality control specifications.
• Maintain detailed quality data in the database, regularly updating inventory and inspection results, and conducting audits as necessary.

1. Shrinkage and Waste Reduction:

• Monitor shrinkage and waste data, submitting findings to the Revenue Protection Lead and P&L, and actively work towards reducing shrinkage through experiments to increase the shelf life of Biologicals and improve processes.
• Collaborate with Procurement and other teams to analyze surplus and shortages, identify root causes, and make process improvements.
• Communicate daily with Procurement about surplus of Bios.

1. Labor and Workflow Management:

• Track and improve labor efficiency in the packaging area by optimizing task assignments, training workers in quality control procedures, and managing time effectively.
• Compare actual time spent on tasks versus standard time, identifying areas for improvement.
• Plan and manage packaging labor resources to meet demand fluctuations, including contingency plans for peak times or unexpected increases in orders.

1. Inventory and Storage Management:

• Maintain and track storage conditions of biocontrol products (temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) to ensure they remain within ideal ranges for quality preservation.
• Coordinate product movement in inventory, especially for items that remain in the packaging area for more than 48 hours.
• Report discrepancies (e.g., overstock, shortages) to Procurement for corrective action.

1. Collaboration and Reporting:

• Maintain effective communication with cross-functional teams, such as Customer Support, IPM Lead, and Procurement, to ensure cohesive operations and quick resolution of any issues affecting order fulfillment or quality.
• Prepare and review quality reports, ensuring alignment with packaging specifications and quality controls. Communicate results with suppliers where necessary, particularly in cases of discrepancies.
• Regularly audit and update SAP systems for shipment reception, surplus counts, and bio discard management, ensuring inventory accuracy and real-time updates.

1. Training and Continuous Improvement:

• Develop and implement training programs for quality inspection and packaging staff, ensuring proficiency in inspection procedures, SAP usage, and packaging protocols.
• Oversee staff certifications in quality control protocols, ensuring the team is fully equipped to handle all aspects of product packaging and quality assurance.
• Continuously improve quality and packaging processes through feedback, mock scenarios, and regular audits of performance and procedures.

Key Criteria/Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Entomology, or related fields.
• Minimum of 3 years experience in the BioControl industry or Agriculture Industry dealing directly with Biologicals.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Inventory management systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and train teams, with a focus on continuous improvement and process optimization.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high-quality standards.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Extended health benefits after the probationary period.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• A supportive and dynamic work environment.

Please refer the Job description for details