Job Description
Job Description
Job Summary :
The FSQA Specialist ensures the safety, quality, and regulatory compliance of food products from raw materials to finished goods. This position is responsible for implementing food safety and quality control programs, monitoring production processes, conducting audits, and working closely with various departments to ensure all food products meet company and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities :
- Food Safety and Quality Assurance :
Monitor and enforce food safety practices, ensuring adherence to HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point), GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and other food safety protocols.
Develop, implement, and maintain quality assurance systems and processes to ensure compliance with food safety and regulatory standards.Perform inspections and audits on raw materials, in-process production, and finished goods to ensure they meet safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.Conduct risk assessments to identify potential food safety hazards and implement corrective actions.Investigate and resolve quality-related issues, including product defects, customer complaints, or non-compliance incidents.Requests and evaluates compliance documentation from vendors and service providers as required for the WePackItAll supplier qualification program.Maintains a current log of all qualified WePackItAll vendors and service providers.Maintains a current list of all auditing bodies, inspection schedules, licensing status’s impacting WePackItAll programs.Coordinates with the Quality Manager as a member of the auditing team in performing on site audits of WePackItAll facilities and programs as required for compliance with the monthly cGMP program, 3rd party certification and regulatory agencies e.g., food defense programs, food safety programs, NSF For Sport, Gluten Free etc.Assists with the verification and implementation of implementation of all corrective actions resulting from nonconformance’s noted during internal audits.Coordinates the scheduling of SQF Food Safety Team meetings, Food Defense Team and participates in the Quality Management System (QMS) meetings.Regulatory Compliance :Stay current with local, state, and federal food safety regulations (e.g., FDA, USDA, and FSMA) and ensure company policies and procedures are updated to maintain compliance.
Ensure that product labeling, packaging, and documentation meet regulatory requirements for certification label claims.Primary contact for regulatory bodies and third-party auditors during inspections, certifications, and audits.Evaluates SOP documentation to ensure they conform with regulatory requirements and current best practices as defined by certification bodies and government agencies.Training and Education :Conduct training sessions for staff on food safety, quality control standards, and best practices for maintaining product quality.
Provide ongoing education and support to employees in relation to food safety and quality procedures.Quality Control :Develop and maintain a robust system for testing raw materials, finished products, and environmental conditions for compliance with food safety and quality standards.
Coordinate with Quality Engineer, corrective actions and follow-up on findings from inspections, audits, and testing.Documentation and Reporting :Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of quality control tests, inspections, audits, and corrective actions.
Prepare reports and presentations for management, and cross-functional teams, outlining food safety and quality metrics, audits, corrective actions, and compliance status.Ensure proper documentation for traceability and recall procedures in case of food safety incidents.Works with the Quality Manager and Account Representatives in fulfilling customer requests for documentation e.g., supplier qualification documents and certifications.Continuous Improvement :Identify areas for improvement in food safety and quality assurance processes and implement corrective actions.
Participate in food safety and quality improvement projects, collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance product quality and safety.Is committed to furthering the strategic direction of the company and the advancement of the Food Safety Culture.Qualifications :
Education :Bachelor’s degree in food science, microbiology, chemistry, biology, or a related field.
Experience :Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in food safety, quality assurance, or a related field in the food manufacturing industry.
Knowledge of food safety standards (e.g., HACCP, GMP, FSMA) and experience with regulatory compliance.Skills :Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and quality management systems.
Familiarity with laboratory testing methods and equipment for food analysis.Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Ability to work in a fast-paced, production-oriented environment.A demonstrated ability to perform and adapt in a changing environmentProficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).Certifications (Required) :HACCP certification, SQF Practitioner certification, or other industry-recognized food safety certifications.
Six Sigma, ISO 9001, or other quality management certifications are a plus.Physical Requirements :
Ability to work in a production or manufacturing environment, including standing for extended periods, and lifting or carrying objects up to 25 pounds.Occasionally required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, hairnets, or masks.The above description of the physical demands of the job does not address possible modifications which may be made to reasonably accommodate a qualified individual with a disability.WPIA is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate applicants on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, parental status, ancestry, disability, gender identity, veteran status, genetic information, any other protected status.