Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager

We are looking for a natural leader that enjoys empowering others and has experience successfully managing teams and supervisors!

Reports to: Chief Product Officer

Direct reports: 4-5

Indirect reports: 25

Company Overview:

Fresca Mexican Foods is a premier manufacturer of tortillas, wraps, and chips located in Caldwell, Idaho. With over 45 years of experience, we are committed to delivering the highest quality products using the finest ingredients and state-of-the-art manufacturing processes. As an SQF-certified company, we prioritize food safety and quality in all aspects of our operations. Our world-class facility and dedicated team serve customers worldwide, and we continue to grow and innovate within the industry.

Position Summary:

An experienced and highly motivated Food Safety and Quality Assurance (FSQA) Manager oversees and enhances our food safety and quality assurance processes at our production facility. The FSQA Manager is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. This role leads the development, implementation, and monitoring of comprehensive FSQA programs to ensure our products meet and exceed all internal and external standards, including those set by the FDA, USDA, Customers and industry certifications such as SQF.

Key Responsibilities:

• Food Safety and Quality Management:
  • Lead the development, implementation, and maintenance of comprehensive food safety programs (HACCP, GMPs, allergen controls, etc.) and quality assurance systems across all stages of production.
  • Ensure all food safety and quality protocols are effectively communicated and adhered to by all staff.
• Regulatory Compliance & Audits:
  • Ensure full compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements (FDA, USDA, SQF, etc.).
  • Manage and Collaborate with our SQF Practitioner to ensure internal and external audits; and associated programs are maintained, implemented and improved as necessary.
• Product Quality Control:
  • Oversee strict quality control procedures for monitoring raw materials, in-process ingredients, and finished products.
  • Conduct routine inspections and quality testing to ensure product consistency, safety, and quality.
• Team Leadership & Training:
  • Manage and mentor a team of FSQA professionals, providing leadership, training, and guidance on food safety protocols, quality standards, and best practices.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement and accountability within the team.
• Root Cause Analysis & Corrective Actions:
  • Lead investigations into product quality deviations, customer complaints, and non-conformances.
  • Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions to resolve issues and prevent recurrence.
• Data Analysis & Reporting:
  • Analyze data from quality assurance checks and food safety audits to identify trends, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
  • Prepare and present detailed reports to senior management on FSQA performance and initiatives.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  • Collaborate closely with Production, R&D, Maintenance, and other departments to ensure integrated food safety and quality management across all production phases.
  • Build strong relationships with other department leaders to promote a unified approach to food safety and quality.
• Customer & Vendor Relations:
  • Address customer quality concerns and complaints promptly and effectively.
  • Work closely with suppliers to ensure the quality and safety of raw materials, including conducting supplier audits when necessary.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, Engineering, or a related field, including STEM type degrees. Equivalent experience (4 years) will be considered in lieu of a bachelors degree.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in food safety and quality assurance.
  • At least 2 years in a management or leadership role within a food manufacturing environment, preferably in tortilla or similar food production. Team management and management of managers is critical in this role.
• Knowledge & Skills:
  • In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, including FDA, USDA, SQF, HACCP, and GMPs.
  • Demonstrated experience in managing food safety programs and leading quality assurance teams.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to conduct root cause analysis and implement effective corrective actions.
  • Excellent leadership and team-building skills.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with Quality Management Software (QMS).
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications:

• SQF Practitioner Certification or equivalent food safety certification.
• Experience in tortilla or bakery product manufacturing.
• Certification or experience in Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Familiarity with allergen management and food labeling regulations.

Additional Information:

• This role requires a proactive leader with a hands-on approach to food safety and quality assurance.
• The successful candidate will have a proven track record of implementing effective FSQA programs and driving continuous improvement.
• We offer a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional growth and development.