Job Purpose

Assist in developing and maintaining all programs and procedures related to food safety and quality. Direct Quality Assurance department and inspection operations on all shifts for received, in-process, and finished product quality and food safety.

Essential Functions

• Provide daily supervision of QA Technicians regarding training and development in proper procedures, standards, and handling of employee relations, including establishment of measurable goals and input on performance reviews

• Train, develop, and mentor QA Technicians regarding food safety, quality, and legality

• Manage shift planning/scheduling and work assignments for Quality Assurance department positions

• Oversee food safety program, quality standards, and legality of products manufactured in the facility; support compliance to plant quality and food safety systems, pest control, sanitation, environmental policy, corrective action policy, etc.

• Direct the inspection of incoming ingredients including random sampling of products, the physical condition of ingredients and packaging, fat and moisture content, and compliance with ingredient specifications

• Ensure out-of-specification products, materials, and ingredients are put on hold, investigations conducted, disposition determined, and issues resolved

• Act as technical liaison for Quality Assurance department in the absence of the Quality Assurance Manager: externally with customers and vendors; internally with production, R&D, marketing, and procurement for all quality processes

• Initiate quality complaint investigations; verify corrective action completion and continued conformance

• Support facility during inspections, customer audits, and other interactions with regulatory agencies/customers

• Support facility with required certifications: organic, non-GMO, kosher, etc.

• Participate in new product development and commercialization

• Oversee label and packaging proofing and verification program to ensure correct labels are applied during manufacturing

• Lead/train and participate in internal audits and mock recalls while ensuring compliance to internal quality policies and applicable local regulations through the audits, observations, process reviews, and development of corrective actions with management

• Inspect work areas for safety hazards, observe employees’ safe work habits, and take corrective action as necessary; fill out accident investigation reports and attend safety meetings, as appropriate; communicate and follow up to meet safety goals

• Participate in training programs as needed (e.g., BRC/SQF, cGMP, HACCP, Safety)

• Perform other job-related duties as assigned

Qualifications (Education/Experience)

• Bachelors Degree in Food Science, Microbiology or similar fields required

• 1+ year of supervisory experience preferred

• 3+ years of quality experience in the food industry; knowledge and proven experience with food safety programs and systems: GFSI (BRC or SQF preferred), internal auditing, cGMPs, HACCP, FSMA

• Microbiological and sanitation experience preferred

• HACCP and PCQI certified or willing to become certified

• Versed in scientific methodology, RCA, continuous improvement, SPC, and other tools to reduce process variability

• Operational knowledge of computers and Microsoft Office applications

• Demonstrated ability to organize and supervise a diverse work force

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Excellent skills in the areas of teamwork, motivation, decision making, relationship building, and coaching

• Ability to think critically and solve complex problems

• Ability to organize, manage multiple priorities, and maintain high attention to detail in a fast-paced environment

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