Food Safety & Quality Manager

Compensation : $120,000 to $130,000 Location : On-site in Othello, WA Benefits : Medical, dental, vision, 401(k) benefits available Position Summary Our client is seeking an experienced Food Safety & Quality Manager to lead all food safety, quality assurance, sanitation, and compliance initiatives within a manufacturing facility. This individual will be responsible for developing, implementing, and continuously improving food safety and quality systems that ensure regulatory compliance, product integrity, and operational excellence. The Food Safety & Quality Manager serves as a key leader within the plant, partnering cross-functionally with Operations, Engineering, Supply Chain, R&D, and Commercial teams to drive a culture of food safety, quality, compliance, and continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities Food Safety & Quality Leadership Lead the development, implementation, and management of all food safety and quality assurance programs across the facility. Ensure compliance with internal quality standards, customer requirements, regulatory expectations, and industry best practices. Serve as the site expert for food safety, quality systems, sanitation, and regulatory compliance. Promote a culture of food safety and quality ownership throughout the facility. Quality Systems & Compliance Manage and maintain Quality Management Systems (QMS) to support operational and compliance objectives. Ensure effective implementation and management of HACCP, GMP, allergen control, sanitation, pest control, and environmental monitoring programs. Lead internal and external audits, including preparation, execution, corrective action management, and continuous improvement initiatives. Maintain compliance with GFSI-recognized standards and applicable regulatory requirements. Continuous Improvement Utilize auditing, trend analysis, root cause analysis, and process evaluations to identify opportunities for improvement. Lead corrective and preventive action (CAPA) initiatives related to food safety, quality, and customer concerns. Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure quality and food safety performance. Identify and implement best practices to improve product quality, operational efficiency, and compliance. Incident Management & Customer Support Lead investigations and decision-making related to food safety and quality incidents, non-conforming materials, and out-of-specification products. Manage product holds, dispositions, and associated documentation. Support customer quality requirements, audits, complaints, and corrective action processes. Partner with commercial and supply chain teams to address customer concerns and ensure product compliance. Cross-Functional Collaboration Collaborate with Engineering on equipment installations, process changes, and capital projects, including food safety risk assessments. Partner with R&D and Operations teams to support new product introductions, product transfers, and process optimization initiatives. Work closely with Supply Chain and warehouse teams to ensure food safety and quality standards are maintained throughout the distribution network. Leadership & Team Development Lead, mentor, and develop Food Safety and Quality team members. Conduct performance management, coaching, and succession planning activities. Develop and deliver food safety and quality training programs for plant personnel. Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous learning. Qualifications Required Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biology, Dairy Science, or a related scientific discipline. 5+ years of progressive Food Safety and Quality leadership experience within food manufacturing, consumer packaged goods, ingredients, beverage, dairy, or related industries. Strong knowledge of: HACCP GMPs Food Safety Management Systems Allergen Control Programs Sanitation Programs Pest Management Regulatory Compliance Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Actions Experience leading internal and external audits. Strong understanding of microbiological testing, sanitation monitoring, and quality assurance principles. Preferred PCQI certification. Experience with FSMA requirements. Knowledge of GFSI-recognized standards such as SQF, BRCGS, or FSSC 22000. Experience supporting export customers and international food safety requirements. Previous leadership experience in a manufacturing environment. Key Skills Food Safety and Quality Systems Management Regulatory Compliance Auditing and Assessment Root Cause Analysis Continuous Improvement Risk Assessment Leadership and Team Development Cross-Functional Collaboration Data Analysis and KPI Management Strong Communication and Problem-Solving Skills Work Environment This position operates within a manufacturing environment and requires regular interaction with production, sanitation, warehouse, engineering, and corporate teams. The successful candidate will be a hands-on leader who is comfortable balancing strategic quality initiatives with day-to-day operational support. Equal Opportunity Employer information is available as required by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr