Job description
Job Responsibilities:
The Quality Assurance Manager will fulfill a core operational role by managing and coordinating activities of our Quality Assurance department and staff by performing specialized tasks including, but not limited to: assuring consistent quality of production by developing and enforcing good manufacturing practice (GMP) systems, validating processes, providing documentation and third-party audit regulations.
Job Duties:
- Ensures plant has adequate controls, programs, and organizational structure in place to comply with all regulations, customer and GFSI requirements
- Ensures that products adhere to internal and external quality assurance and food safety standards
- Ensures compliance with and attends audits by regulatory and 3rd party agencies, including but not limited to: FDA, State of California, organic, kosher, Non-GMO Verification, gluten free and SQF
- Maintains and reports to management on department KPIs on a monthly basis
- Reports issues and resolutions to Operations departments and management team on a regular basis
- Collaborates with Operations departments to assess risks, analyze data, and make informed decisions on products and processes
- Develops, implements, and manages quality and food safety programs, policies, and procedures to adhere to regulatory, internal and 3rd party requirements; including, but not limited to: allergen control, recall and traceability, supplier approval and management, organic, non-GMO, and environmental monitoring
- Communicates with and ensures adequate training of appropriate management and personnel in quality and food safety programs, policies, and procedures
- Manages both the customer and consumer complaint program, including but not limited to: verification that complaints are documented adequately, preparing trend reports, initiating corrective actions, and making appropriate dialogue with customers
- Partners with Supply Chain and Warehouse departments in reporting and resolving issues with raw materials and suppliers
- Collaborates with Research and Development department during new product start-ups and product development; establishes key checkpoints for new products and processes
- Identifies and investigates in-house quality issues, manages QA Hold Program, and establishes dispositions in a timely manner
- Hires, trains, supervises, motivates, and develops Quality Assurance department staff; manages schedules and workflow
- Participates in continuous improvement and cost reduction activities
- Contributes to various cross-functional teams
- Performs other duties as necessary
Qualifications / Education / Experience / Skills:
- Bachelor of Science Degree, with an emphasis in Food Science, Microbiology, food engineering, Chemistry or related degree required
- Minimum five (5) years of related experience in the food industry
- Thermal processing experience required – dairy industry a plus
- Proficiency in supervising and motivating subordinates
- Commitment to excellence and high standards
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills
- Ability to manage priorities and workflow
- Versatility, flexibility, and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm
- Ability to work independently and as a member of various teams and committees
- Proficient on computer programs and software required
- Proven leadership and business acumen skills
- Proven ability to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to effectively work with a diverse group of individuals at all organizational levels
- Good judgment with the ability to make timely and sound decisions
- Bilingual in Spanish highly desired
- Ability to understand all safety requirements and cautions
- SQF Certification experience a plus
Local candidates only - no relocation provided.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $90,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
Experience:
- Quality assurance: 5 years (Preferred)
- Manufacturing management: 5 years (Preferred)
- Food processing: 5 years (Preferred)
- Food safety: 5 years (Preferred)
- Food production: 5 years (Preferred)
Work Location: One location