Contract Manufacturing, Quality Lead, AZ

Patco Brands is one of the fastest-growing beverage companies in the United States. Independently owned, Patco has established itself by using 100% Blue Weber Agave and a proprietary process to innovate within the fast-growing ready-to-drink spirits category.

Patco is a maker of margaritas, tequila, hard seltzers, Irish cream liqueur, and other spirits, under our own brands and for private labels. Our own brands and private labels, with nationwide distribution, include:

· Rancho La Gloria Ready to Drink Margaritas 

· Rancho La Gloria Ranch Water 

· Big Sipz

· Kirkland Signature Tequila 

· Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzers

· Dough Ball Whiskey

Patco products are sold in every major retailer, including Costco, H.E.B., Kroger’s, Target, Walmart, and Whole Foods Market, just to name a few.

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Summary:

The Contract Manufacturing Quality Supervisor supports quality oversight across the contract manufacturing network. This role is responsible for executing quality programs, monitoring co-manufacturer performance, and ensuring adherence to company, regulatory, and customer-specific standards.

The ideal candidate is highly detail-oriented, hands-on, and comfortable working in fast-paced manufacturing environments, with experience in both food and beverage production preferred. This role requires frequent travel, strong communication skills, and the ability to influence external partners to uphold high-quality expectations.

Quality Program Execution: 

• Support the implementation and maintenance of quality assurance programs across co-manufacturing partners, ensuring compliance with internal standards and continuous improvement initiatives.

On-Site Quality Oversight: 

• Conduct routine site visits to monitor production processes, GMPs, sanitation practices, and adherence to specifications for both beverage and food products.

Co-Manufacturer Support: 

• Assist in onboarding, training, and qualifying co-manufacturers. Reinforce expectations related to quality, food safety, and regulatory compliance.

Audit Support & Execution:

• Perform internal audits and assist in third-party or customer audits. Document findings, communicate gaps, and support follow-up on corrective actions .

Product Quality Monitoring: 

• Review batch records, Certificates of Analysis (COAs), and production documentation to ensure products meet required specifications prior to release.

Issue Resolution & CAPA Support: 

• Assist in investigating quality deviations, non-conformances, and consumer complaints. Support root cause analysis and implementation of corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).

Documentation & Reporting: 

• Maintain accurate and complete records of quality activities, audit findings, and site visits. Provide timely updates and reports to the Quality Manager.

Cross-Functional Collaboration: 

• Partner with internal teams , including Operations, Regulatory, and R&D, to ensure alignment on product specifications, packaging, labeling, and compliance requirements.

Continuous Improvement: 

• Identify opportunities to improve product quality, manufacturing efficiency, and consistency across the contract manufacturing network.
• On-hand inventory review and reporting

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Quality, or a related field OR equivalent experience
• 3–5+ years of experience in Quality Assurance, Food Safety, or Manufacturing
• Experience in food and/or beverage manufacturing environments (both preferred)
• Strong understanding of GMPs, HACCP/HARPC, and food safety principles
• Excellent communication, organization, and follow-up skills
• Ability to travel 50–75%, including weekends and international travel
• Valid passport required

Preferred Qualifications:

• Located in Phoenix, Arizona, near a major airport hub. 
• Certifications in Food Safety Auditing, HACCP, SQF Practitioner, PCQI, Food Safety and Quality Systems, and Better Process Control School are desired.
• Thorough knowledge of Food Safety and Quality Systems, quality auditing procedures, FDA, and TTB Food Safety and Quality Regulations.
• Experience with canned beverages mandatory
• Prior experience managing quality through Contract Manufacturing is strongly preferred.
• Ability to lead, communicate, and enforce Patco Brands’ quality policies and procedures with contract manufacturers.
• Strong influencing and interpersonal skills with a team mindset.
• Strong analytical skills to process information, solve problems, and determine corrective actions with attention to detail.
• Knowledge of quality standards and regulatory requirements, with skills and abilities to communicate internally and externally and execute against requirements.
• Ability to effectively communicate with and manage key teams and management.
• General computer literacy required, with proficiency in Microsoft and NetSuite or other ERP such as SAP.

Salary: $90,000-$120,000

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