Food Quality Assurance Manager

Job Summary:

The Quality Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining quality systems to ensure beverage products meet company standards and regulatory compliance requirements. This role oversees all aspects of product quality and food safety across manufacturing operations. The Quality Manager leads internal audits, regulatory inspections, compliance documentation, and quality improvement initiatives, acting as a key liaison between production, R&D, and regulatory agencies. With a 250 people operations, 4 shifts, revamping former organization at lightning speed. We are proudly located in beautiful Pittston, PA. 

Key Responsibilities:

Quality Assurance & Food Safety Compliance

• Lead and manage compliance with FDA, USDA, HACCP, SQF, FSMA, and GFSI standards for beverage production.
• Own the plant’s food safety and quality programs, ensuring ongoing certification and audit readiness.
• Maintain accurate and organized documentation for regulatory inspections and internal quality audits.
• Oversee product testing protocols (microbiological, chemical, sensory), managing all lab operations and equipment calibration.
• Investigate and resolve quality issues, consumer complaints, and non-conformances with detailed root cause analysis and corrective action plans (CAPAs).

Regulatory Affairs & Risk Management

• Stay current with federal, state, and local food/beverage regulations and ensure the facility remains in full compliance.
• Serve as the primary point of contact during third-party audits and regulatory inspections.
• Develop risk assessments, preventative controls, and traceability procedures per FSMA and HACCP guidelines.
• Lead internal audits, supplier qualification audits, and participate in GFSI certification processes (SQF/BRC/etc.).

Leadership & Team Development

• Supervise, train, and develop the QA/QC team, ensuring competency in food safety procedures, GFSI practices, and inspection techniques.
• Foster a culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement across all departments.
• Conduct regular quality and food safety training for plant personnel to reinforce best practices.

Collaboration & Cross-functional Coordination

• Partner with Production, R&D, Maintenance, and Supply Chain to ensure seamless quality integration across departments.
• Support new product launches by validating labeling, ingredient specifications, and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate with sanitation and maintenance teams to ensure compliance with environmental and hygiene standards.

Data Analysis & Continuous Improvement

• Analyze quality data trends and metrics to identify areas of improvement in product consistency and process efficiency.
• Utilize Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies to drive process improvements and reduce waste.
• Monitor and optimize quality KPIs such as product defects, audit scores, and complaint rates.

Required Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related scientific field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 5–8 years of progressive experience in quality assurance within beverage or food manufacturing.
• Strong working knowledge of FDA, FSMA, HACCP, GFSI, SQF/BRC, and related quality and food safety regulations.

Technical & Professional Skills:

• Demonstrated success leading quality teams in a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Proficient in internal auditing, root cause analysis, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Experience with laboratory equipment, test methods, and microbiological standards.
• Strong data analysis skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, QA management software (e.g., SafetyChain, Intelex), and ERP systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified SQF Practitioner or PCQI (Preventive Controls Qualified Individual).
• HACCP Certification and Internal Auditor Certification.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
• Experience with beverage-specific processes such as pasteurization, carbonation, and aseptic filling.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) is a plus.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Fast-paced beverage production facility with exposure to chemicals, moving equipment, and varying temperatures.
• Frequent walking, standing, and working in lab and production floor environments.
• Must be able to lift 25-50 lbs and use lab tools and sanitation equipment as needed.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings or evenings during audits, inspections, or production scale-ups.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Annual performance bonus.
• Full benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), and Life Insurance.
• Paid Time Off (PTO), Holidays, and career development support.

Company Overview:

• Pittston Copackers is a leading beverage co-manufacturer with a reputation for delivering high-quality products and exceeding regulatory and customer expectations. We’re committed to food safety, innovation, and operational excellence. Join a team where your expertise in compliance and quality assurance helps shape the future of beverage manufacturing.