Senior Quality Lab & Incoming Materials Lead Job Chicago area,Illinois USA,Quality Assurance

We have a current opening for a Quality Lab/Incoming Manager. This key functional and management position in the Ferrero Quality Organization manages the laboratory that performs microbiological, chemical, physical, and sensorial analysis of incoming materials, semi‑finished and finished products, and environmental testing. The role reports directly to the Head of Quality, manages a team of seven members, and works cross‑functionally with Production, R&D/Technology, and the Corporate Central Quality Laboratory in Europe.

It will lead the plant’s transition to Ferrero standards, overseeing the introduction of a new laboratory, new equipment, and new analytical methodologies.

Main Responsibilities:

Laboratory Development and Management

Contribute to the definition of analytical strategy in collaboration with the Plant Quality Manager and Central Laboratory;
Propose new equipment, methodologies, and manage the associated budget;
Manage outsourced analysis and act as the key contact for external labs;
Ensure that Good Laboratory Practices are met and propose continuous improvement;
Act as a coach and provide technical support in implementing new methods or troubleshooting;
Ensure that Safety Programs are in place;
Serve as a key member of the Food Safety Team.

Incoming Raw Materials and Packaging Management

Schedule and program laboratory activities to ensure efficient and timely analysis;
Organize, coordinate, and manage the defined sampling program;
Review analytical results and provide interpretation;
Oversee material release by the team and issue Non‑Conformance reports for incoming materials;
Provide trend analysis and recommendations to the Quality Manager;
Guarantee accurate and precise results according to regulations and by participating in Ring Test;
Manage stock status (hold, released, inspection).

Team Management

Ensure all activities are performed accurately and on time;
Ensure team members are trained on related procedures and comply with work instructions;
Organize work schedules and priorities for the team;
Manage yearly performance evaluations of direct reports;
Develop each team member.

About You:

B.Sc. in Microbiology and/or Chemistry, Food Science preferred, or another related field;
Minimum 4 years in a Quality Lab Supervisor/Manager role within the food industry;
Familiarity with food safety and quality systems;
Knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices;
Experience with Root Cause Analysis;
Quality Assurance experience in a food manufacturing environment;
Experience with GFSI standards (FSSC 22000, SQF, BRC) required; ISO 17025 a plus;
Excellent analytical and organizational skills;
Strong communication skills in a multicultural environment;
Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and deadlines;
Good knowledge and practice of laboratory analysis;
Proficiency in computer systems, data analysis, and Microsoft Office;
Proficiency in SAP is an added advantage.

The base salary range for this position is $92,000 - $123,000 annually
. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job‑related factors permitted by law. This range represents the anticipated salary for this position at this time.

In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other benefits.

Ferrero is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable human rights laws. Ferrero will recruit, hire, train, and promote all persons without regard to race, creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity), religion, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, or history of disability (except where physical or mental abilities are a bona fide occupational requirement and the individual cannot perform the essential functions of the position even with reasonable accommodations), citizenship, or any other protected characteristic.

Ferrero will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the People & Organization (HR) Representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

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