FSQA Compliance Coordinator

Job Summary

In accordance with applicable policies/procedures and under the direction of the Head of Quality, the QA Compliance Coordinator supports the development, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance systems.

This role focuses on supporting GFSI-aligned programs, document control, training systems, and quality management system (QMS) and operational excellence initiatives to ensure programs remain organized, up-to-date, and effective as the company continues to grow and evolve.

Working closely with the Head of Quality and partnering with the QA Supervisor, this position bridges quality systems and daily operations ensuring programs are practical, maintained, and consistently executed across the facility.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Compliance Program Support & System Coordination

• Support the Head of Quality in maintaining and improving food safety and quality systems to align with operational growth and evolving business needs
• Assist in coordinating cross-functional compliance activities to ensure alignment between documented programs and actual practices
• Maintain organization and structure of compliance systems, ensuring consistency across departments

GFSI System Maintenance & Documentation

• Assist in maintaining key food safety system elements, including:
  • Management review preparation and follow-up tracking
  • Complaint management documentation and trending support
  • Raw material and finished product specification updates and control
  • Supplier approval records and quality documentation management
  • Permit and license tracking and renewals
• Support food safety plan maintenance, including verification and validation documentation
• Assist with internal audit preparation, report updates, and corrective action tracking
• Coordinate and conduct mock traceability exercises and other verification activities

Document Control & SOP Management

• Draft, review, and update SOPs, SSOPs, and work instructions in collaboration with cross-functional teams
• Maintain document control systems, including version control, distribution, and record retention
• Ensure all documents remain current, accurate, and audit-ready

Training Program Support

• Assist in developing and updating training materials across departments
• Support coordination, tracking, and documentation of employee training programs
• Contribute to continuous improvement of the training system to ensure scalability and effectiveness
• Work with department leads and QA Supervisor to identify training gaps and support implementation

R&D & New Product Compliance Support

• Partner with R&D and cross-functional teams to support new product development initiatives
• Assist in identifying applicable food safety, regulatory, and labeling requirements for new products
• Support creation and updates of product specifications and related compliance documentation
• Ensure new products meet internal, regulatory, and certification requirements prior to launch

QMS & Operational Excellence Project Support

• Assist the Head of Quality in executing Quality Management System (QMS) and operational excellence initiatives
• Support cross-functional projects aimed at improving compliance, process efficiency, and system scalability
• Help track project timelines, action items, and deliverables to ensure timely completion
• Assist in standardizing processes, improving documentation structure, and enhancing system usability
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by organizing data, supporting analysis, and documenting outcomes

Audit & Regulatory Support

• Support preparation for SQF, organic, regulatory (CDFA, FDA, USDA), and customer audits
• Compile, organize, and maintain audit documentation and records
• Track corrective actions and follow up to ensure timely closure

• Serves as the primary point of contact for external audit agencies and regulatory bodies.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify gaps between documented procedures and actual practices and support improvement efforts
• Assist in CAPA documentation, tracking, and verification of effectiveness
• Support implementation of improvements arising from QMS and operational excellence initiatives
• Contribute to strengthening a culture of compliance and continuous improvement

Other Duties

• Provide administrative and technical support to the QA team as needed
• Assist with special projects and quality system initiatives
• Perform other duties as assigned by management

Qualifications / Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, Agricultural Science, or related field
• 1–2 years of experience in food manufacturing QA (internship experience acceptable for strong candidates)
• Bilingual in English and Spanish (required)
• HACCP or PCQI certification (required)
• Basic knowledge of food safety systems (SQF, HACCP, GMPs)
• Strong organizational, documentation, and coordination skills
• Effective communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally
• Detail-oriented with a proactive and structured approach to work
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
• Exposure to SQF or other GFSI-benchmarked systems (Preferred)
• Experience in dairy or high-risk food processing environments (Preferred)

Physical and Mental Requirements

The physical and mental requirements described below are representative of those necessary to perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform these essential duties:

• Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, data entry, and document review
• Ability to view and read information on a computer screen for extended periods
• Occasional reaching, handling, or moving light office materials (e.g., files or documents, typically under 10 pounds)
• Ability to communicate effectively via phone, video conferencing, and email
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy, especially when reviewing documentation and records
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and adhere to established procedures (e.g., SQF standards)
• Problem-solving skills to assist in improving document control processes and quality systems
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for cross-functional collaboration
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately

• Ability to work independently and manage responsibilities with minimal supervision.
• Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including waterproof non-slip boots, gloves, hair net, and beard net, as required by GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) standards.
• Capacity to follow written procedures and verbal instructions precisely.
• Ability to recognize and report quality and safety issues promptly and effectively.
• Ability to manage time efficiently, prioritize tasks, and adapt to changes in work assignments.

Work Environment

This position operates within a food manufacturing creamery and involves a combination of office-based work and time spent on the production floor.The role includes a significant focus on desk-based activities such as documentation management, system maintenance, data tracking, and coordination of compliance programs. Extended periods of computer work, document review, and cross-functional communication are expected.

The QA Compliance Coordinator will also spend time on the production floor to observe processes, support training activities, and verify that procedures are effectively implemented and aligned with documented programs. The production environment may be cold, wet, or humid due to refrigeration, cleaning activities, and dairy processing conditions. Employees may be exposed to varying temperatures, moisture, and moderate noise levels consistent with industrial equipment operations.

This is a collaborative, fast-paced environment that requires strong attention to detail, organization, and the ability to balance office-based responsibilities with periodic floor presence. Personal protective equipment (PPE), including but not limited to waterproof non-slip boots, gloves, hair nets, and beard nets (as applicable), must be worn in designated production areas in compliance with GMPs, company policies, and California workplace safety standards.

The role involves regular use of computers, virtual communication tools, and digital document management systems. Occasional on-site work may be required at a creamery or production facility, such as Bellwether Farms. When on-site, the employee may be exposed to food production environments, including varying temperatures (refrigerated and ambient areas), moderate noise levels, and wet or slippery surfaces. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hairnets, gloves, and appropriate footwear, may be required in designated areas.

The role requires adherence to all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety regulations. Interaction with production staff and QA personnel in a fast-paced environment may also be necessary

Compensation and Benefits

Bellwether Farms is committed to pay equity and transparency in alignment with California law. The anticipated hourly pay range for this position is $33.65–$38.46 This range is provided as a general guideline. Final compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant experience, education, skills, internal equity, and market conditions.

We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (eligibility begins after 30 days of employment)
• 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Access to company products and employee discounts

Bellwether Farms is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Equal Opportunity Employer/ Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties as necessary.