Job Summary

The Quality Assurance Specialist is responsible for supporting the Quality Systems Manager in maintaining and improving all aspects of food safety and quality assurance across the facility. This position plays a key role in conducting inspections, monitoring processes, ensuring compliance with regulatory and customer requirements, and maintaining accurate documentation to uphold product quality and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Quality Systems Manager with daily quality and food safety operations.
• Conduct and document plant inspections, including:
• Weekly GMP audits and safety assessments
• Daily GMP checks and documentation verification
• Metal detector check validations
• HACCP-related observations and recordkeeping
• Product quality assessments and corrective actions as needed
• Monitor food safety and quality performance throughout the plant and report findings to management.
• Investigate and resolve product quality or food safety concerns, ensuring employee compliance with company policies.
• Ensure proper understanding and execution of GMPs, sanitation, recall procedures, HACCP policies, and related quality standards.
• Perform inspections on raw materials and finished products for compliance with specifications (e.g., coding, pH, moisture, sensory evaluation).
• Conduct and document equipment calibrations (Dipix, EyePro, etc.).
• Communicate quality issues promptly to department leads, supervisors, and management.
• Perform environmental and air quality testing per internal and customer schedules.
• Verify ingredient receiving procedures and audit related documentation.
• Participate in customer and regulatory audits (AIB, FDA, HACCP, SQF, etc.).
• Maintain and update allergen control program records.
• Collaborate with production teams to determine appropriate actions for on-hold products.
• Maintain clear, accurate documentation of all quality-related activities.
• Support and assist with employee food safety and quality training programs.
• Provide backup support for Quality Systems Manager, Compliance Manager, Quality Technician, or Product Compliance & Development Technologist as needed.

Food Safety, Quality, and Compliance Responsibilities

• Enforce all food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance programs.
• Verify documentation accuracy and ensure proper recordkeeping.
• Identify, report, and help correct any food safety or quality concerns.
• Uphold the standards in the Food Safety and Quality Manual and maintain readiness for GFSI and other third-party audits.

Skills and Qualifications

• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Ability to understand and complete detailed documentation and forms
• Experience in food manufacturing or quality assurance preferred

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for up to 8 hours per shift
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately

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