Quality Specialist

The Quality Assurance Specialist is responsible for ensuring that the company’s products and services meet established quality standards. This role works closely with the QA Supervisor, the Senior Regulatory and Compliance Specialist, and the quality team to support key initiatives such as third‑party, regulatory, and customer audits, as well as departmental goals and KPIs. The specialist stays informed about ongoing quality assurance projects and performance metrics, helps maintain continuity across core programs, and serves as the primary SQF Practitioner whenever the Senior Regulatory and Compliance Specialist is unavailable. Duties And Responsibilities Quality Control Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of raw materials, in‑process production stages, and finished goods to confirm compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements. Quality Assurance Procedures: Support the Senior Regulatory and Compliance Specialist in developing, implementing, and maintaining quality assurance procedures, protocols, and documentation to ensure consistent product quality and safety. Testing and Analysis: Perform laboratory testing and sample analysis using approved methods and equipment to evaluate product quality, microbial safety, and shelf‑life performance. Non‑Conformance Management: Investigate and record non‑conformances, deviations, and customer complaints, working with cross‑functional teams to implement corrective and preventive actions. Documentation and Reporting: Accurately maintain quality records, test data, and compliance documentation. Prepare reports and communicate key findings to management and relevant stakeholders. Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to enhance quality processes and increase efficiency. Partner with cross‑functional teams to adopt best practices and support continuous improvement initiatives. Regulatory Compliance: Stay current on food safety regulations, industry standards, and best practices. Assist the Senior Regulatory and Compliance Specialist in ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, including FDA, USDA, HACCP, and GMP requirements. Training and Education: Assist the QA Supervisor and Senior Regulatory and Compliance Specialist in providing training and guidance to production and quality staff on QA procedures, food safety standards, and regulatory requirements. Work Schedule Flexibility: Ability to work overtime and non‑standard hours as needed, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Additional Duties: Perform other related responsibilities as assigned. Minimum Job Requirements High‑school diploma or GED, required. Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field. Previous experience in quality assurance or food manufacturing, preferably in a regulated environment. Certifications such as SQF Practitioner, PCQI, or HACCP certification are desirable. Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Proficient use of computer, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote), and other related applications or software. Demonstrated leadership skills and possesses the ability to develop interdepartmental relationships. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Strong understanding of food safety principles, HACCP, GMP, and regulatory requirements. Proficiency in conducting laboratory testing and analysis techniques. Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills. Effective communication and collaboration skills. Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks in a fast‑paced environment. Supervisory Responsibilities N/A Working Conditions And Physical Effort Work involves daily exposure to unusual elements such as dirt, dust, fumes, darkness and/or noise. Seasonal exposure to weather elements includes, but is not limited to, extreme temperatures, wetness, and humidity. Work environment involves daily exposure to physical risks such as working around mechanical equipment, forklifts, chemical hazards, and electrical hazards. Position requires the ability to sit frequently at a desk, walk around the office and plant; carry packages up to 50 pounds; utilize fine dexterity; reach and kneel on a daily basis. Expectations Will demonstrate, promote, and exemplify the Company’s Core Values. We are proud to offer competitive compensation and benefit programs that include medical, dental, vision, flexible savings account, health savings account, 401K matching savings plan, employee assistance program, wellness programs, life insurance, AD&D insurance, disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, student loan counseling, employee referral program, paid time off, and more! C.H. Guenther & Son and its subsidiaries are E-Verify participating employers. AA/EEO/Drug-Free Employer #J-18808-Ljbffr