Apple Specialist

Job Summary:

The Apple Yard Specialist is responsible for assisting the Raw Material Supervisor with reception of fresh apples into the factory, including inspection, attribute testing and acceptance/ rejection of the lot based on established company specifications. In addition, this position is responsible for the daily inspection and management of the onsite fresh apple inventory to ensure proper fruit mellowing and then adjust the blend for production, consistent with R&D specifications.

Job Responsibilities & Tasks:

• Inventory management and compliance

• Assists with the daily coordination of fresh apple reception, including the scheduling, sampling, inspecting/testing, and receiving of individual truck loads.

• Ensures compliance of Materne Fresh Apple Specifications during the reception process

• Responsible for determining the proper storage condition of individual apple lots (ambient vs. cold storage)

• Performs a daily inspection of entire fresh apple inventory to determine proper mellowness of fruit and create/communicate a daily lot lineup based on observations

• Evaluates with Quality Control any rejected apples to determine final disposition

• Works directly with Apple Purchasing to schedule inbound apple load varieties.

• Communicates any related information that helps in making decisions for scheduling said loads.

• Manage apple functions cross functionally

• Adjusts the blend used in production to ensure quality taste and puree characteristics are consistent with published R&D Specifications based on fresh apple quality and inventory levels. Collaborates with R&D to propose and validate any blends outside of the standard specifications (BAR).

• Performs regular, all-inclusive inspection, including pressure test on fresh apple inventory and records/reports findings

• Manage 3rd party relationships

• As needed, conduct visits to outside storage locations to perform audits as it relates to inventory counts, apple pressures, etc…

• Provides feedback to Apple Purchasing in regard to apple supplier performance

• Ensures that a safe working environment is established and maintained in the apple yard and storage areas

• Organizes sorting activities when needed

• All other duties as assigned

Key Performance Indicator (KPI):

• Appropriate blends created to meet quality specifications: BAR

• Adherence to apple quality specifications at apple receiving

• Proper monitoring of on hand inventory

• Communication with Apple Purchasing on quality and needs for upcoming weeks

Position Requirements:

EDUCATION

• High School diploma or GED required.

EXPERIENCE

• 1-3 years of experience in and inventory control or warehouse position

• 1+ year of experience working in a quality or food handling role

• 1+ year in a plant/manufacturing environment

SKILLS

• Solid understanding of production, quality and food safety principles

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

• Ability to communicate proficiently in writing (including email) and verbally

• Independent, self-starter who can work without direct supervision

• Excellent organizational and time management skills and attention to detail

• Ability and willingness to work occasional overtime as needed

• Forklift certification or ability to obtain within a month,

PHYSICAL & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• Occasional travel may be required (10% maximum)

• Must be able lift up to 40 lbs.

• Must be able to stand for an entire shift (8-12 hours)

• Must be able to work outside in various weather conditions, including rain, snow, heat, cold, etc.