Quality Assurance Manager

Quality ManagerThe Quality Manager is responsible for leading all quality and food safety programs within the facility to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, customer expectations, and company standards. This role drives a culture of quality, continuous improvement, and accountability across the plant, while partnering closely with Operations, R&D, and Supply Chain to deliver safe, high-quality products.Key ResponsibilitiesQuality & Food Safety LeadershipLead and manage all aspects of the plant's Quality Management System (QMS)Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements, including FDA, USDA (if applicable), and third-party audit standards (e.g., SQF, BRC)Serve as the site lead for food safety programs, including HACCP, GMPs, allergen control, and sanitation oversightMaintain and continuously improve food safety and quality programsAudit & ComplianceLead internal, customer, and third-party auditsEnsure readiness for audits and drive timely corrective actions for any findingsMaintain all required documentation and records in compliance with regulatory and customer standardsTeam Leadership & DevelopmentLead, coach, and develop the quality team, including supervisors and techniciansBuild a strong quality culture across all shifts and departmentsProvide training on food safety, quality standards, and regulatory requirements to plant personnelQuality Assurance & ControlOversee product quality testing, inspections, and release processesMonitor key quality metrics and drive corrective actions to address trends or issuesEnsure adherence to specifications for raw materials, in-process products, and finished goodsCustomer & Supplier QualityManage customer complaints, including investigation, root cause analysis, and corrective actionsPartner with suppliers and procurement to ensure raw material quality and complianceSupport customer requirements, specifications, and documentation requestsContinuous ImprovementDrive root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA)Partner with Operations to reduce waste, improve yields, and enhance product qualityUtilize data and metrics to identify opportunities for process improvementQualificationsBachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field (or equivalent experience)5+ years of quality or food safety experience in a food manufacturing environment (snack food experience preferred)2+ years of leadership experienceStrong knowledge of HACCP, GMPs, and food safety regulationsExperience with third-party audits (SQF, BRC, or similar)Skills & CompetenciesStrong leadership and team development skillsAbility to influence cross-functional teams and drive accountabilityDetail-oriented with strong problem-solving and analytical skillsExcellent communication and organizational skillsAbility to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environmentWorking ConditionsManufacturing environment with exposure to production areas, varying temperatures, and food processing equipmentAbility to work flexible hours, including occasional weekends or off-shifts as neededPhysical RequirementsAbility to stand, walk, and move throughout the facility for extended periodsAbility to lift up to 25 pounds as needed