Job SummaryThe Quality Assurance (QA) Manager is responsible for leading the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of food safety and quality programs in a high-speed food manufacturing environment. This role ensures compliance with FDA, FSMA, GFSI (SQF), and customer-specific requirements while driving operational excellence and a strong food safety culture. The QA Manager leads QA teams, oversees audit readiness, and champions initiatives that improve product quality, process efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Salary- $90,000 - $110,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and demonstrated expertise
Key ResponsibilitiesQuality Systems & Regulatory Compliance- Lead the implementation and maintenance of HACCP, PCQI, Preventive Controls, and allergen management programs
- Serve as the facility's SQF Practitioner and lead all GFSI (SQF) initiatives
- Ensure audit readiness for third-party, customer, and regulatory inspections
- Maintain compliance with FDA, FSMA, GMPs, OSHA, and EPA requirements
- Conduct root cause investigations for customer complaints, deviations, and recalls; lead CAPA programs
- Review and approve product labeling, including nutrition facts, ingredient declarations, and allergen statements
Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration- Supervise, mentor, and develop QA team members through training, coaching, and performance evaluations
- Collaborate with Production, Sanitation, R&D, and Supply Chain to align on quality and food safety objectives
- Facilitate food safety and quality training programs across all levels of the organization
Product Quality & Process Improvement- Validate new product formulations, ingredient changes, and equipment modifications through trials and testing
- Lead shelf-life studies, microbiological testing, and sensory evaluation programs
- Analyze quality data (SPC, trends, complaints) to drive continuous improvement initiatives
- Optimize raw material usage and ensure compliance with customer and internal specifications
Documentation & Audit Management- Oversee preparation and maintenance of QA records, manuals, SOPs, and specifications
- Perform as Lead Auditor for internal audits and follow up on non-conformances
- Coordinate product traceability activities and lead mock recalls in accordance with company policy
QualificationsEducation- Bachelor's or Master's degree in food science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field
Certifications (Preferred)- HACCP Certification
- PCQI Certification
- SQF Practitioner Certification
- Internal Auditor Certification
Experience- 7-10 years of progressive experience in food manufacturing quality assurance (bakery, tortilla, or snack industry preferred)
- Minimum 5 years of QA management experience, including team leadership
- Proven success with GFSI certification programs and regulatory audits
- Demonstrated experience handling recalls, quality deviations, and customer complaints
Skills- Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities (RCA, SPC, data analysis)
- Excellent leadership and communication skills
- Proficiency in QA systems, ERP systems, and Microsoft Excel
- Strong organizational and time management skills
