Relocation Assistance Offered Within Country
Job Number #173692 - Tonganoxie, Kansas, United States
The Quality Systems (Laboratory) Team Leader oversees the plant's quality laboratory and related quality systems. The role ensures that all testing, documentation, and release activities support Hill's/Colgate Quality Standards, HACCP, cGMP, FSMA, and other regulatory requirements, while leading and developing the lab team and driving continuous improvement in product and process quality.
- Lead day-to-day operation of the quality lab to ensure accurate, timely testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
- Ensure lab methods, equipment, and sampling plans are followed, current, and properly documented.
- Review and approve test results, ensuring that nonconformances are identified, escalated, and managed.
- Maintain laboratory procedures, work instructions, and records in line with Hill's/Colgate Quality Standards, cGMP, FSMA, and other applicable regulations.
- Support and/or lead site programs such as HACCP, environmental monitoring, validation, calibration, and internal audits from the lab perspective.
- Ensure all lab activities support product release criteria and are aligned with site food safety and quality programs.
- Manage lab-related documentation within the site document control system, ensuring version control and effective implementation.
- Lead and support investigations (nonconformances, out-of-spec results, customer complaints) and drive effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
- Use data and quality tools to monitor trends, identify risks, and drive continuous improvement in testing, processes, and methods.
- Prepare and present laboratory and quality systems evidence for internal, corporate, customer, and regulatory audits.
- Coordinate follow-up actions and verify timely closure of audit findings related to lab and quality systems.
- Direct and schedule work for lab personnel; provide coaching, feedback, and performance reviews.
- Ensure appropriate onboarding, qualification, and ongoing training for all lab staff on methods, safety, and quality systems.
- Promote a culture of safety, quality, ethics, and teamwork consistent with Hill's/Colgate values.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in a technical field (Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or related scientific discipline).
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in a Manufacturing Quality or Laboratory role (food, pet food, pharmaceutical, or other GMP-regulated environment).
- Experience working within formal quality systems (HACCP, cGMP, FSMA, or similar) and supporting audits.
Preferred qualifications include: - Prior supervisory or team-lead experience in a Quality Lab or quality systems function.
- Knowledge of HACCP, Food Safety, FSMA, Statistical Process Control, and Colgate Quality Standards.
- Experience with SAP or similar ERP and electronic Quality/ Lab systems.
- Advanced problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset for decision-making.(e.g. Looker Studio, Domo, etc)
- Excellent communication skills with a focus on collaborative problem-solving
Compensation and BenefitsSalary Range $86,000.00 - $121,000.00 USD
Pay is determined based on experience, qualifications, and location. Salaried employees may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, profit-sharing, and long-term incentives for Executive-level roles.
Benefits: Salaried employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, paid parental leave, disability coverage, and participation in the 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions subject to eligibility requirements. Additional benefits include a minimum of 15 vacation/PTO days (hourly employees receive a minimum of 120 hours) and 13 paid holidays (vacation days are prorated based on the employee's hire date within the calendar year). Paid sick leave is adjusted based on role and location in accordance with local laws. Detailed information regarding paid sick leave entitlements will be provided to employees upon hiring and may be subject to adjustments based on changes in legislation or company policies.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
Our journey begins with our people-developing strong talent with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to best serve our consumers around the world and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels a true sense of belonging. We are dedicated to ensuring that each individual can be their authentic self, is treated with respect, and is empowered by leadership to contribute meaningfully to our business.
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