Quality Control Manager

Job Title: Quality Assurance Manager

Department: Quality Assurance

Reports To: Director of Quality Assurance

FLSA Status: Exempt

Job Type: Full Time

Job Description:

The Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of product quality and food safety throughout Frankford Candy's operations, including processing, production, and packaging. This role ensures that all products meet established specifications, regulatory requirements, and internal quality standards. The QA Manager will lead the QA team, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and collaborate cross-functionally to maintain and enhance Frankford's commitment to quality and compliance.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Administration
   1. Supervise, train, and develop QA Technicians.
   2. Oversee the implementation and maintenance of QA programs, procedures, and documentation.
   3. Assist in developing and updating line specifications and quality standards for new and existing items.
   4. Prepare and review daily, weekly, and monthly quality reports for management.
   5. Partner with the Director of QA to support regulatory and third-party audits.

1. Plant Oversight and Compliance
   1. Assure products meet standards set forth by Bill of Materials and specifications established.
   2. Rate each line for Quality, GMP's and Safety.
   3. Monitor daily production and packaging operations to ensure compliance with GMPs, HACCP, and company standards.
   4. Evaluate production lines for overall quality, weight control, and food safety performance.
   5. Lead corrective action efforts in response to deviations or non-conformances.
   6. Coordinate with production and maintenance teams to resolve quality issues promptly.

1. Microbiological and Laboratory Management
   1. Oversee laboratory testing for physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters including viscosity, extraneous matter, fineness, color, and contamination.
   2. Ensure appropriate sampling and testing for pathogens and indicator organisms (e.g., Salmonella, Coliforms, APC, Yeast & Mold).
      Maintain calibration and verification programs for lab equipment.
      Ensure that laboratory and QA work areas remain sanitary and audit-ready.

1. Record Keeping and Data Management
   1. Manage all QA documentation, including production quality scores, metal detector logs, and inspection findings.
   2. Review and analyze data to identify trends and drive process improvements.
   3. Ensure traceability and documentation compliance with regulatory and customer requirements.

1. Product Development and Continuous Improvement
   1. Collaborate with Product Development and Operations teams to establish specifications for new products.
   2. Evaluate samples for appearance, weight, and design against established quality standards.
   3. Lead or participate in root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product consistency and efficiency

1. Communication and Cross-Functional Collaboration
   1. Serve as a key liaison between QA, Production, Maintenance, and Product Development teams.
   2. Provide guidance and coaching to supervisors and employees on GMPs, quality procedures, and corrective actions.
   3. Communicate quality performance metrics to management and recommend improvements.

Education / Experience / Skills

1. Bachelor's degree in food science, Biology, or related field; or at least 7 years of experience in the food or beverage industry, including supervisory experience.
2. Strong knowledge of Food Safety, GMPs, HACCP, and regulatory compliance (FDA, GFSI, etc.).
3. Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; experience with QA data systems preferred.
4. Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
5. Strong attention to detail and ability to work collaboratively across departments.
6. Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and food safety.