We are seeking an experienced and proactive plant quality assurance manager to lead the implementation, maintenance, and validation of food safety and quality programs in a high-volume production environment. This role plays a key part in ensuring compliance with regulatory and customer requirements while supporting production teams with technical guidance and continuous improvement initiatives. The successful candidate will be responsible for staff supervision, internal audits, complaint investigation, and the ongoing development of a culture focused on product integrity and operational excellence.
Position Responsibilities
Team Leadership and Supervision
- Supervise, hire, and train Quality Control staff to ensure effective team performance
- Develop and enforce quality policies and procedures to ensure consistent product quality
- Provide direct training on food safety and quality practices across departments
Quality Program Management
- Implement, maintain, verify, and validate food safety and food quality systems, including HACCP and SQF
- Serve as a Safe Quality Foods (SQF) Practitioner and provide backup support as needed
- Keep QA documents and product specifications current and aligned with internal and customer requirements
Data and Performance Analysis
- Manage data collection, perform root cause analysis, and lead problem-solving initiatives with cross-functional teams
- Track quality trends, process capability, and deviations from product specifications
- Prepare and present reports on quality metrics and performance
Customer and Sales Support
- Act as the liaison between sales and customers for quality issues
- Partner with sales managers and customers to define and align on product quality attributes
- Support complaint investigations and timely reporting to customers
Continuous Improvement and Compliance
- Assist in developing calibration procedures, test methods, SPC tools, and data input systems
- Ensure the production process is capable of meeting quality expectations
- Analyze lab reports, technical data, and implement solutions that drive continuous improvement
- Maintain awareness of market conditions and adapt practices as needed
Operational Readiness and Support
- Must be on-call 24/7 and available to work weekends as production dictates
- Support plant operations by evaluating workload and testing needs for increased efficiency
Prerequisites
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, or Food Science
- Minimum of 5 years of food industry experience in a quality assurance environment, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role
- Strong technical background with the ability to interpret lab reports and technical specifications
- Proficient in computer and analytical software, and expert-level knowledge of statistics and SPC
- Experience collaborating across all levels of the organization, including external business and technical teams
- Excellent organizational skills with a clear and concise communication style
- Must be flexible and responsive to changing production or market conditions
- On-call availability and willingness to work in a dynamic plant environment
Certifications (Preferred, but not Required)
Certified SQF Practitioner, HACCP Certification
What the Role Offers
- Opportunity to lead a key function in one of the most advanced food manufacturing environments
- Hands-on role with direct influence on product quality, customer satisfaction, and operational success
- Ability to drive and shape quality systems and training programs at a plant level
- Cross-functional collaboration with production, sales, and technical teams
- Career advancement opportunities and continued professional development
Why Salida?
Salida offers an ideal balance of agricultural heritage and advanced manufacturing, making it a prime location for professionals in the food industry. With a strong community of skilled workers, state-of-the-art production facilities, and a focus on innovation and safety, Salida supports professional growth and offers a collaborative environment. Its location provides easy access to both rural and urban amenities, ensuring quality of life alongside career opportunity.