Manager, Food Safety QA
$85,000–$95,000 year
On-siteEast Rutherford, New Jersey, United States
Job Summary
Develop, implement, and manage quality systems, food safety programs, and regulatory compliance standards including HACCP, GMP, FSMA, and SQF/BRC. Oversee all QA/QC staff and operations, conducting in-process and finished product inspections, lab testing, and documentation while leading internal and external audits with FDA, USDA, and third-party agencies. Investigate quality complaints and non-conformances to lead root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions. Manage microbiology laboratory protocols, shelf-life testing, and sanitation programs to ensure product safety and consistency. Train and mentor QA/QC staff on procedures and the Grandma Quality culture. Collaborate with production, R&D, and supply chain teams to drive continuous improvement. Maintain and update the Food Safety and Quality Manual, SOPs, and training documentation. Prepare compliance packets, product specs, and questionnaire responses for customers, auditors, and regulatory bodies.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in food science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field
- Minimum 7 years of QA/QC experience in a food manufacturing environment
- At least 3 years in a managerial or supervisory role
- Strong knowledge of food safety regulations, quality systems, and industry standards
- Experience with HACCP, GMP, FSMA, SQF, BRC, or similar certifications
- Excellent leadership, communication (English,) and organizational skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
- Ability to analyze data and use metrics to drive decisions
- Detail-oriented with a commitment to continuous improvement and quality excellence
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, or stoop for extended periods
- Hearing sufficiently to monitor equipment sounds, alarms, or verbal instructions in noisy environments
- Lift/carry or move items weighing up to 60 pounds
- Ability to use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety goggles, gloves, or lab coats
- Ability to climb stairs and access elevated platforms or confined spaces in some settings
Desired Qualifications
- Familiarity with Federal Food Labeling requirements for meat and poultry
- Certified SQF Practitioner, PCQI, HACCP, or other relevant certifications
- Experience with audits and regulatory agency inspections
- Bilingual (English/Spanish)
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