Assistant Quality Assurance Manager

Assistant Quality Assurance ManagerThis role partners with plant leadership to drive food safety, regulatory compliance, and quality performance. The Assistant Quality Manager supports site programs, leads laboratory operations, and ensures alignment with corporate standards and external requirements.Key ResponsibilitiesSupport development, execution, and continuous improvement of site Food Safety and Quality programs.Ensure compliance with FSMA, SQF standards, GMPs, sanitation programs, and customer requirements.Participate in the site Food Safety Team and act as the on-site liaison for corporate quality initiatives.Monitor operations for compliance; escalate and resolve non-conformances with corrective actions.Maintain document control systems, ensuring accuracy and version control across all quality records.Lead internal audit programs and manage CAPA processes.Serve as primary contact during regulatory, customer, and third-party audits.Oversee daily lab operations, including testing, scheduling, equipment calibration, and supply management.Provide training, direction, and performance oversight for lab personnel.Supervise Quality Control staff, including hiring, training, performance management, and scheduling.Provide back-up leadership in the absence of the Quality Manager.Travel up to 20% to support multi-site quality programs and audits.Required QualificationsExperience:3–5+ years of experience in food or beverage quality assurance.Experience with Grade A dairy or Cultured dairy is required.Prior supervisory or team leadership experience.Strong knowledge of HACCP, SQF, GMPs, and quality systems.Proficient with reporting tools and data entry systems.Education:Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, or a related field. An Associate's degree with relevant experience will be considered.Certifications (or ability to obtain):PCQI (Preventive Controls)HACCP (Juice or equivalent)SQF PractitionerInternal Auditor / Food DefensePreferred Qualifications:Familiarity with ISO principles and statistical process control is preferred.Work Environment:This position operates in a manufacturing setting with exposure to wet conditions, chemicals, and industrial equipment. The role involves regular standing, walking, and occasional lifting up to 55 lbs. Noise levels may exceed typical office environments.