Food Safety Manager

Job Description

Job Description

About Lokal Harvest USA

Lokal Harvest USA is a controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) company operating a 30-acre, state-of-the-art glass greenhouse in Early Branch, South Carolina, dedicated to year-round production of premium, sustainably grown tomatoes for retail and foodservice customers across the Southeast and Eastern Seaboard. We combine advanced growing technology, rigorous food-safety standards, and a committed local workforce to deliver consistent quality at commercial scale — and we are building for growth.

Position Overview

The Food Safety Manager is responsible for keeping continuous policies and standard operating procedures up to date, executing employee training, organizing audits, and ensuring that the location is meeting Lokal Harvest USA Food Safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Participate in daily tasks, maintaining the Food Safety Program, and enhancing the Food Safety Culture which may include but not limited to the following:
• • Leads by example following the culture development of the Food Safety Fundamentals, the Food Safety Plan, the Quality System, and the Organic Production/Handling Plan for all Lokal Harvest USA locations.
  • Facilitate communication related to the continued improvement and maintenance of the systems.
  • Review and evaluate the training of all employees concerning food safety and organic production/handling.
  • Perform regular reviews with functional staff to evaluate requirements and proactively identify compliance deficiencies ensuring they are resolved appropriately. Works with Management to make adjustments and corrections to ensure all locations are following the Lokal Harvest USA set standards.
  • Ensure system verifications, microbiological tests, internal audits, and internal training are completed on time according to the yearly verification schedule.
  • Maintain confidentiality of all proprietary information and company data.
  • Must comply with all Health and Safety, Food Safety, Bio Security, and Lokal Harvest USA Policies and Procedures.
  • Monitor all location internal verification activities to ensure regular timely adherence and compliance using an automated verification program.
  • Support customers, vendors, and agency audits and participate as necessary.
  • Assist with food safety training, investigations of non-conformances, and development of SOPs.
  • Minutes of meetings, filing, and maintaining data bases as required.
  • Conduct product traceability and recall capabilities based on customer specifications, label approvals, and lot control using internal software programs like ERP and Power BI.
  • Aid in internal quality system policies, procedures, and documents.
  • Promote food safety procedures in accordance to changing legislative requirements including FDA, USDA, and third-party audits.
• Must comply with all Health and Safety, Food Safety, Bio Security, and Lokal Harvest USA Policies and Procedures.
• This job description highlights the main components but is not inclusive of other activities that may be required.

Qualifications

• 1 or more years in proven experience in the agricultural/produce industry and/or food safety field.
• Post-secondary education in Food Safety/Quality Assurance is preferred but not a requirement.
• Proficiency in working with computers and software programs, specifically ERP, KPI Portals, and Microsoft Office, more specifically Excel and Nav.
• Strong attention to detail for accurate data entry and record-keeping.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in a professional work environment.
• Ability to maintain respectful relationships at all levels within and outside the organization.
• Ability to adapt quickly and effectively to the company’s rapid growth, innovation, and ongoing development.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision in a team environment as well as some independent work.
• Multi-tasking, time management, and prioritizing are essential.
• Must be strong with follow through as many tasks could require constant follow-up.
• Spanish considered an asset.
• Must hold a valid driver’s license and have access to a personal vehicle.

  Working Conditions

• Fast paced greenhouse environment where temperatures can be very humid, moist or cold for most of the year.
• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer use are required.
• Collaborate effectively with a diverse team of individuals from various backgrounds and cultures.
• Requires regular communication and coordination with team members across departments.
• The role requires a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
• Standard workdays are Monday-Friday, with the occasional after hours to meet deadlines.

  Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry items typically ranging from (2–50 lbs), depending on role requirements.
• Working in a standard office environment, which may include exposure to lighting, temperature variations, and office noise.

Compensation & Benefits

Lokal Harvest USA offers a competitive base salary plus future benefits

Lokal Harvest USA LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Supplying the Southeast!

Pioneering the future of sustainable, locally grown produce for the Southeastern USA.

A groundbreaking transatlantic partnership blending cutting-edge Dutch horticultural expertise with American innovation, our 1,200+ acre master-planned campus in Hampton County, SC delivers premium, pesticide-free tomatoes and vegetables, harvested fresh and delivered to Southeast retailers within 24 hours.

Fresh from vine to shelf. Locally grown for superior flavor, nutrition, and environmental impact. Serving over 94 million people across the region with year-round consistency, 95% less water, zero residues, and reduced food miles

Company Description

Supplying the Southeast!\r\n\r\nPioneering the future of sustainable, locally grown produce for the Southeastern USA.\r\n\r\nA groundbreaking transatlantic partnership blending cutting-edge Dutch horticultural expertise with American innovation, our 1,200+ acre master-planned campus in Hampton County, SC delivers premium, pesticide-free tomatoes and vegetables, harvested fresh and delivered to Southeast retailers within 24 hours.\r\n\r\nFresh from vine to shelf. Locally grown for superior flavor, nutrition, and environmental impact. Serving over 94 million people across the region with year-round consistency, 95% less water, zero residues, and reduced food miles