Quality Engineer

Quality EngineerIzzio Artisan Bakery is America's #1 Sourdough Artisan Bakery. We are spotlighting the innovation in our market, making us the fastest growing brand. At Izzio we are focused on providing our customers with great breads created using traditional methods and the best possible ingredients. Our people are a major part of our process and success.Position SummaryThe Quality Engineer supports the Quality Manager in managing, maintaining, and improving quality and food safety at a sourdough manufacturing facility. This role has a strong focus on customer and consumer complaints management, data-driven quality improvement, and analysis and trending of quality KPIs, while applying engineering and scientific principles to ensure finished product performance. Serves as a key technical partner to Operations, driving preventive actions, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction.Key ResponsibilitiesServe as primary technical and operational support to the Plant Quality Manager for quality systems execution and daily plant quality activitiesAssist with program ownership, verification, and continuous improvement of site food safety and quality systemsProvide analytical support for management review, customer communications, and audit readinessAct as quality leadership support during investigations, escalations, or Quality Manager absence, as assignedCustomer & Consumer Complaints ManagementOwn and manage the customer and consumer complaints process for the facilityLead thorough investigations into complaints related to product quality/food safety including sensory, packaging, mold, and foreign materialPerform root cause analysis and develop effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)Partner with Operations, Sanitation, and Supply Chain to address systemic issuesPrepare professional, data-driven customer response documentation in collaboration with the Quality ManagerTrend complaint data to identify recurring issues and prioritize improvement opportunitiesQuality KPIs, Data Analysis & TrendingDevelop, monitor, and maintain quality KPIs, including (but not limited to): Customer and consumer complaints, Internal defects and rework, Hold and release performance, Audit findings and CAPA effectivenessPerform trend analysis and statistical evaluation (SPC where applicable) to identify emerging risksTranslate data into actionable insights for plant leadership and cross-functional teamsSupport preparation of dashboards and reports for daily management, monthly reviews, and corporate reportingQuality Improvement Project LeadershipLead quality improvement projects aligned with plant and company objectivesApply structured problem-solving methodologies (5-Why, Fishbone, FMEA, A3, DMAIC)Drive cross-functional participation to reduce defects, variation, waste, and customer complaintsValidate effectiveness and sustainability of corrective actions through follow-up monitoringFood Safety & Regulatory ComplianceSupport development, maintenance, and verification of the site Food Safety Plan in compliance with FSMA Preventive Controls (21 CFR 117)Assist in managing HACCP / Preventive Control programs, with emphasis on: Fermentation time, temperature, and pH controls, Sanitation and environmental programsSupport regulatory inspections and GFSI audits (SQF) including corrective action follow-upTraining & Cross-Functional CollaborationSupport training of plant personnel on quality procedures, GMPs, and complaint preventionWork cross-functionally with Operations, Sanitation, Maintenance, R&D, and Supply ChainPromote a proactive quality and food safety cultureRequirementsRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in food science, food engineering, microbiology, chemical engineering, or related field2+ years of experience in food manufacturing quality or food safetyExperience managing or supporting customer/consumer complaints and investigationsStrong data analysis, technical writing, and root-cause problem-solving skillsWorking knowledge of FSMA, HACCP, GMPs, and GFSI standardsMust maintain regular, consistent attendance & punctuality. Must have a flexible schedule, that includes evenings and weekends (Saturday and Sunday)Preferred QualificationsExperience with fermented, sourdough, or yeast-based productsPCQI and/or HACCP certificationExperience using SPC or quality data visualization toolsBakery or dough-based manufacturing experienceKey CompetenciesStrong analytical and critical thinking skillsCustomer-focused mindset with attention to detailAbility to lead improvement initiatives without direct authorityClear, confident communicator with technical credibilityOrganized, proactive, and comfortable managing multiple investigations simultaneouslyPosition Information:Reports to: QA ManagerLocation: ThorntonCompensation Range: $75,000-$85,000Closing Date: 07/13/2026Compensation is based on the level of experience, other relevant experience, and requirements of the position. The range provided serves only as a guideline and does not automatically qualify all candidates (internal or external) for the high end of the range.At izzio, we believe great work starts with happy, supported people. That's why we offer a comprehensive and thoughtful benefits package designed to help you thrive inside and outside of work. From competitive pay to career growth opportunities, we're committed to supporting you.Our Benefits Include:Compensation : Competitive base salaries (commensurate with experience) and other recognition dependent upon role.Health & Wellbeing : Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options to keep you and your family covered.Financial Security: 401(k) with company match.Work-Life Balance : Paid time off, paid holidays, and flexible scheduling where possible.Growth & Development : We are committed to the growth of our employees by providing ongoing training, professional development opportunities, and pathways to advance your career.Breadquarters Perks: Weekly take-home bread, because real sourdough bread is part of your life, not just your job. You'll also enjoy the occasional team meal, first tastes of our innovation, and coffee is provided at the office.Recognition: izzio encourages a recognition culture and offers opportunities to recognize peers via our Employee Portal Recognition & Rewards.At izzio, you're more than just an employee, you're a key ingredient in our success. We value craftsmanship, teamwork, and innovation, and we're proud to create breads that bring joy to our customers every day. When you join our team, you become part of a community that respects your contributions, supports your growth, and celebrates the art of baking together.