The Quality Assurance Manager ensures all regulatory, customer, and internal quality standards are met. This role leads the QA and Sanitation teams, oversees food safety programs, and manages audits, documentation, and compliance efforts.
Key Responsibilities
Lead QA and Sanitation teams (13+ staff)
Maintain compliance with HACCP, FSMA, USDA, FDA, and GFSI standards
Conduct internal audits and manage third-party inspection readiness
Oversee lab operations and QA testing (microbiological, chemical, organoleptic)
Investigate customer complaints and implement corrective actions
Manage QA budget and lab inventory
Collaborate with plant leadership to improve sanitation and GMPs
Generate reports to track KPIs and quality metrics
Requirements
Essential
10+ years of experience in the food industry, including 5+ years in quality management
Strong understanding of food safety regulations (USDA, FDA, FSMA, etc.)
Experience managing regulatory agency interactions and updates
Food manufacturing experience
Internal Audit Certification with 1–3 years of auditing experience
Proven ability to hire, lead, and manage teams effectively
Strong leadership and cross-functional collaboration skills
Excellent communication, interpersonal, organizational, and presentation skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
Desirable
Experience with document management systems
Exposure to or experience with Supply Quality Programs
1–2 years of Supply Quality Management experience
Six Sigma certification (Green Belt, Black Belt, or higher)
Broad knowledge of quality assurance concepts, practices, and procedures