Food Safety and Quality Assurance Manager

The Food Safety and Quality Assurance Director will be required to learn and implement all aspects of Quality Assurance, understanding important Products characteristics and specifications (Acidified products, Fresh Produce: garlic, ginger, shallots, onions) and COA's, as well as understanding and managing Food Safety programs and regulations, as GFSI, HACCP, Organic-NOP programs and handling regulatory authorities’ compliance.

This position will be expected to participate in monthly plant inspections, lead customer and 3rd party audits, and overseeing the Food Safety and Quality Assurance teams for the three production sites. This position will report directly to the General Manager.

Purpose:

As the FSQA Director, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of food safety, quality assurance, and compliance within the company. You will play a critical role in managing food safety systems, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and implementing best practices to maintain product integrity from farm to table. Your leadership will ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality, safe products to our customers.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Food Safety & Compliance:

• Develop, implement, and maintain food safety policies and programs to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations (FDA, USDA, FSMA).
• Lead audits, inspections, and assessments to ensure company compliance with food safety standards.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with third-party certifications (PrimusGFS, GlobalG.A.P., SQF, BRC).
• Oversee traceability and recall processes, ensuring rapid response to potential food safety issues.
• Implement and consolidate a strong Food Safety Culture within the three production facilities.

2. Quality Assurance:

• Develop and manage quality assurance procedures for the entire product lifecycle, including sourcing, processing, packaging, and distribution.
• Continue and improve systems for receiving, monitoring and testing product quality, including sensory evaluations, testing for contaminants, and ensuring consistency in product specifications.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality, reduce defects, and improve processes.

3. Team Leadership & Training:

• Manage and mentor the FSQA team, fostering a culture of food safety and quality.
• Design and implement training programs to ensure all employees are well versed in food safety protocols, quality control processes, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, supply chain, and marketing, to ensure alignment on quality and safety goals.

4. Risk Management & Incident Response:

• Identify potential food safety hazards and implement proactive risk management strategies.
• Lead investigations into food safety incidents or quality issues, identifying root causes and corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Work closely with regulatory agencies in the event of a food safety issue or recall.

5. Documentation & Reporting:

• Maintain comprehensive records of food safety programs, quality audits, and compliance activities.
• Prepare and present regular reports on food safety and quality metrics to senior management.
• Stay up-to-date with emerging trends and regulations in food safety and quality assurance.

Hours of work:

Primarily a day shift position. Typical shift will be 7:00 am - 5:00 pm. 5-6 days a week,

depending on business needs.

Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in science programs is preferred.
• Food Safety and Quality Assurance/Control in the food industry: at least 3 years (Preferred).
• Previous experience in production or manufacturing preferred.
• Ability to work both collaboratively and independently, creatively, with an open mind and always proposing new ideas/ways of working.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Ability to work 45-50hrs/week (including Saturdays)
• Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.
• Quick learner and forward thinker.
• In-depth knowledge of quality control procedures and legal standards.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and listening skills.
• Good attention to details.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $100,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

Salary : $100,000 - $120,000