Summary

Plans, coordinates, and directs SQF and quality assurance programs designed to ensure continuous production of products compliant with all regulatory food safety and customer standards.

 Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Writes, audits, and manages quality and food safety programs

Develops and analyzes statistical data and product specifications to determine present standards and established proposed quality and reliability expectancy of finished product.

Formulates and maintains quality assurance objectives complementary to corporate policies and goals.

Write, audits, and manages HACCP and SSOP programs.

Participates in oversight of SQF program. Oversees facility compliance with customer quality programs. Assists in third party and customer audits.

Creates and implements inspection criteria and procedures for Quality Assurance Technicians.

Performs checks on the following: scales (daily), production lines’ setup, line QA’s operation, ingredients, product codes, accuracy of batch sheets (daily), and inventory of USDA controlled substances.

Provides inspection activity for product throughout the production cycle.

Directs workers engaged in inspection and testing activities to ensure continuous control over materials, facilities, and products.

Trains and orients employees on food safety.

Works closely with USDA Inspector and other members of management.

Investigates and responds to customer complaints regarding quality.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Manages supervisors in the Quality Assurance Department. Is responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of this department. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance, addressing complaints, and resolving problems.

Education and/or Experience

College degree in related field; five years’ experience in food plant QA department in similar capacity; must have working knowledge of SQF and HACCP.

Language Skills

Must be able to communicate effectively with plant management, direct reports, customers, USDA and other government officials, and production employees. Must have the ability to answer questions and respond in a professional and competent manner.

Physical Demands

Repeated walking, standing, and bending. While in Production, light lifting and periods of working in cold temperatures.

Work Environment

Depending on the work day, time will be alternated between an office environment and the production floor. On the production floor, the environment is cold and the floors are wet in many areas.

Additional information pertinent to this position (other skills/qualifications needed)

Above average computer skills a definite plus.