Quality Assurance Manager (Food Manufacturing)

Our client is seeking a Quality Assurance Manager who will be responsible for overseeing food safety, quality systems, and regulatory compliance for a manufacturing plant producing dairy or other regulated food products. This role ensures that all products meet customer specifications, regulatory requirements, and internal quality standards. The QA Manager leads the quality team, manages laboratory operations, and drives continuous improvement across the facility. Onsite | No Visa Sponsorship | Relocation Assistance: Limited Responsibilities: Track, trend, and report quality metrics and key performance indicators. Promote and support a strong food safety culture throughout the facility. Review production documentation for accuracy and regulatory compliance. Serve as the site practitioner for food safety programs such as HACCP and SQF. Develop, maintain, and update quality assurance policies, procedures, and manuals. Conduct mock recalls and traceability exercises to ensure readiness and compliance. Manage product status programs including Hold, Release, Rework, and Reject processes. Provide training to employees on hygienic practices, food safety programs, and quality procedures. Manage consumer and customer complaint investigations, root cause analysis, and corrective actions. Lead the plant's Quality Assurance team, including supervisors, sanitation personnel, and lab technicians. Oversee laboratory testing for raw materials, in‑process product, finished goods, and environmental samples. Lead regular plant inspections and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to improve operational performance. Support continuous improvement initiatives and provide technical expertise to operations and leadership teams. Oversee the plant's environmental monitoring program and ensure timely corrective actions for out‑of‑spec results. Lead internal and external audits, certifications, and regulatory inspections (e.g., SQF, FDA, USDA, state agencies) Maintain and manage plant laboratory operations, including staffing, scheduling, testing protocols, equipment, supplies, and documentation. Ensure compliance with food safety and quality regulations, including HACCP, SQF, GMP, Food Defense, and applicable federal/state requirements. Qualifications (Must-Haves) Ability to interpret and implement regulatory requirements. Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and documentation skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and quality management systems. Strong understanding of microbiology, food science, HACCP, SQF, and GMP. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment. 5+ years of supervisory or management experience in a QA or food safety function. Experience managing quality assurance metrics, KPIs, and continuous improvement initiatives. Bachelor's degree in food science, microbiology, biology, chemistry, or a related scientific field. 5+ years of experience in food manufacturing, dairy processing, or other regulated production environments. Preferred Skills: HACCP, SQF Practitioner, PQCI, or related certifications. Experience with sanitation programs and modern sanitation techniques. Experience with project management or continuous improvement methodologies. Benefits & Perks: Tuition Reimbursement 401k with company match Comprehensive benefits package