Job SummaryThe Receiving Grader is responsible for inspecting and grading incoming sweet potatoes to ensure they meet company quality specifications before entering the processing operation. This position evaluates product quality, identifies defects, records inspection results, and communicates quality issues to receiving, production, and management personnel.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesInspect incoming loads of sweet potatoes for quality, condition, size, and overall suitability for processing.Collect representative samples from incoming loads according to company procedures.Grade sweet potatoes based on established quality standards and specifications.Identify defects such as:Rot or decayCuts, bruises, cracks, and mechanical damageInsect damageDisease or moldFreeze or heat damageInternal defectsExcessive dirt, foreign material, or other contaminationImproper size, shape, or maturityDetermine and document the percentage of defects and overall quality of each load.Verify product meets customer, USDA, company, and processing specifications, as applicable.Record grading results accurately using paperwork, computer systems, or electronic quality-control systems.Communicate rejected or questionable loads to the Receiving Supervisor and Quality Control personnel.Assist with decisions regarding acceptance, rejection, regrading, or disposition of incoming product.Monitor unloading operations and report damaged product or unsafe conditions.Maintain accurate records of suppliers, loads, lot numbers, grades, defects, and quality results.Maintain clean and organized sampling and grading areas.Follow all food safety, GMP, HACCP, sanitation, and workplace safety procedures.Properly use and maintain grading equipment, knives, scales, sampling tools, and other equipment.Assist Quality Control and Production with investigations involving raw-material quality.Perform other duties as assigned by management.QualificationsPrevious experience in agricultural inspection, produce grading, food processing, quality control, or receiving is preferred.Knowledge of sweet potato quality and common defects is a plus.Ability to accurately identify and evaluate product defects.Basic math skills, including percentages and measurements.Ability to read and complete production and quality-control records.Basic computer skills preferred.Ability to work independently and make decisions within established quality standards.Good communication and organizational skills.Physical RequirementsAbility to stand and walk for extended periods.Ability to lift and carry samples or materials weighing approximately 50 pounds.Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and work around receiving and processing equipment.Ability to work in varying temperatures, including cold, hot, wet, or dusty environments.Ability to safely work around forklifts, conveyors, trucks, and other processing equipment.Work EnvironmentThis position works primarily in a sweet potato receiving and processing environment and may involve exposure to noise, dust, dirt, moisture, varying temperatures, moving equipment, and agricultural products. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn as required.Key Performance ExpectationsAccurate and consistent gradingTimely completion of receiving inspectionsAccurate quality recordsCompliance with food safety and company proceduresPrompt communication of quality problemsConsistent application of established grading standards