Director of Food Safety

An expanding, growing fresh cut processor has a terrific opportunity to oversee the food safety functions for their facilities in the greater Salinas Valley area and Yuma.

The Director of Food Safety Manager is responsible for leading and overseeing all Food Safety related Quality Assurance and Quality Control functions across production operations. This role ensures full compliance with company Food Safety Programs, HACCP, GFSI standards, GMP requirements, and all regulatory, customer, and third-party audit standards. The role leads and mentors the foods safety team.

This position provides strategic leadership and hands-on oversight of real-time production floor quality activities, documentation control, sanitation verification, food defense programs, and continuous improvement initiatives. The Director of Food Safety fosters a strong food safety culture, drives corrective and preventive actions, and ensures products consistently meet regulatory, customer, and company specifications.

The role requires clear, consistent communication and collaboration with the COO, General Manager, and Plant Manager to ensure alignment on food safety objectives, production performance, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives.

This position will travel seasonally between greater Salinas Valley region( approximately Apr-Oct) and Yuma, Arizona ( approximately Nov-Mar).

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The duties listed below represent the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them if the work is related or a logical assignment to this role.

Leadership & Oversight

• Lead, supervise, and develop QA teams across all shifts and locations.
• Foster a culture of food safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Serves as Recall Coordinator and Lead for Mock Recalls
• Act as a key liaison between Production, Sanitation, and Operations leadership.
• Maintain clear and rapid communication with the COO, GM, Plant Manager, and FSQA team regarding quality metrics, risks, corrective actions, and compliance status.
• Manage special projects and strategic quality initiatives as assigned.
  Food Safety & Regulatory Compliance
• Ensure full implementation and enforcement of the Food Safety Program, HACCP plans, Food Defense and Food Security programs, and SOPs.
• Serve as an active member of HACCP and Food Defense teams.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of food safety regulations and audit standards including GFSI, Organic, LGMA, and customer-specific requirements.
• Lead internal audits and prepare the facility for third-party, regulatory, and customer audits.
• Escort inspectors and auditors, lead plant tours, and present food safety programs with confidence and accuracy. Execute GAP and GFSI audits with a high degree of competency.

Production Floor & Quality Systems Management

• Oversee team functions to ensure compliance with GMPs, SSOPs, and critical control points. Supervise documentation processes and quality control points.
• Review and approve food safety documentation, including pre-operational inspections and verification records.
• Lead hold and release programs for raw materials and finished goods. Identify contamination risks and implement immediate corrective actions. Ensure quality attributes of raw product and finished goods, including sensory and shelf-life evaluations.
• Monitor sanitation effectiveness and ATP and ORP testing systems.
  

Training & Development

• Develop and conduct food safety, GMP, sanitation, and safety training programs.
• Train supervisors and line personnel on proper documentation, chemical handling, SDS compliance, and equipment usage.
• Ensure team competency in HACCP, preventive controls, and audit readiness.
• Promote continuous learning and professional development within the department.

Documentation & Data Management

• Maintain organized audit-ready documentation systems.
• Analyze quality and food safety data to identify trends and implement preventive measures. Ensure proper maintenance of SDS binders and quality equipment inventory.
• Utilize Heavy Connect and Famous for reporting and tracking.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education, Training and Experience

• Five or more years of progressive QA and QC leadership experience in food processing or manufacturing, with significant experience in fresh produce and a strong emphasis on leafy greens processing.
• Five or more years of supervisory or management experience in a fast-paced production environment.
• Proven experience managing multi-site or seasonal operations preferred.
  

Licenses and Certificates

• A valid driver’s license is required at the time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment.
• HACCP Certification required. PCQI Certification required or ability to obtain promptly.

Knowledge & Technical Skills

• Advanced knowledge of HACCP principles, Preventive Controls, GMP standards, SSOP requirements, Food Defense programs, and regulatory and third-party audits including GFSI, Organic, and LGMA standards.
• Working knowledge of ATP systems, ORP metering systems, and quality testing equipment. Strong data analysis and root cause analysis capabilities.

Competencies

• Strategic thinker with strong execution skills.
• Exceptional leadership and team development ability. High integrity and accountability. Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage conflict and interact professionally with auditors, customers, and regulatory officials.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
  

Special Requirements

• On call 365/24/7
• Bilingual; English and Spanish
• Seasonal relocation preferred
  
  
  

The actual salary for this role will be determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s skills and experience. Please note that base pay is one important aspect of the total compensation package. The base salary range is forecasted to be in the $140,000 - $160,000 range, * but can differ for candidates who are an exceptional fit for the position *. The base pay range indicated here does not include any additional benefits or cash bonuses that may be eligible for the position. The company has a very strong health care package for employee and family.