FSQA Supplier Compliance Auditor

Wakefern Food Corp. is the largest retailer‑owned cooperative in the United States and supports its co‑operative members' retail operations, trading under the Shop Rite®, Price Rite®, The Fresh Grocer®, Dearborn Markets®, Fairway Markets®, Gourmet Garage®, and Morton Williams® banners.

Employing an innovative approach to wholesale business services, Wakefern focuses on helping the independent retailer compete in a big business world. Providing the tools entrepreneurs need to stay a step ahead of the competition, Wakefern’s co‑operative members benefit from the company’s extensive portfolio of services, including innovative technology, private label development, and best in class procurement practices.

The FSQA Supplier Compliance Auditor is responsible for managing compliance programs for Wakefern Own Brands suppliers. This role develops and maintains an approved supplier program based on regulatory and corporate requirements to mitigate risk and ensure Wakefern and its Members source from vendors that meet established standards. The position focuses on ensuring food safety and quality expectations are met through on‑site supplier audits, documentation reviews, and corrective action management.

Responsibilities include investigating consumer complaints and recalls/withdrawals, coordinating with internal teams, and supporting the supplier selection processes. Strong knowledge of FDA, USDA, GFSI standards, HACCP, GMPs, SOPs, and third‑party certifications (GLOBAL G.A.P, PrimusGFS, BRC, and SQF) is essential.

• Reviews and maintains supplier documentation and audit results within the Supplier Management program.
• Actively participates in supplier quality related communication and feedback. This includes ownership of the escalation process for nonconforming product, ensuring root cause analysis and corrective solutions are identified and implemented with closure plans.
• Participates in supplier selection process for food safety and quality.
• Follows‑Up on consumer complaints/recalls/withdrawals related to private label product, regulatory issues and coordinates with the Consumer Affairs divisions with appropriate action.
• Schedules and confirms audit date with the supplier.
• Prepares and sends supplier audit plan according to protocols.
• Adheres to all quality and code of conduct standards.
• Conducts audits using applicable checklists, reports, and tools available.
• Maintains positive Supplier relationships and responds to all Supplier inquiries and concerns.
• Submits complete and accurate audit reports within established timelines to Manager.
• Ensures thorough Supplier records are maintained.
• Handles multiple projects/tasks simultaneously and within required time schedules.
• Maintains up to date knowledge of applicable compliance regulations and standards.

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science preferred or similar Science degree.
• Seven (7) years of experience in QA/QC processes in a food and/or regulatory industry.
• Demonstrated knowledge in FDA and USDA regulations in all related commodities including Seafood.
• Demonstrated knowledge in conducting risk assessments, audits, Food GMPs, SOPs, HACCP/Food Safety and environmental guidelines.
• Demonstrated Knowledge in the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) Auditing Scheme highly preferred.
• SQF Practitioner and/or SQF Internal Auditor Certification highly preferred.
• Self‑motivated and strong analytical / problem solving skills.
• Experience working in cross‑functional teams with significant experience in auditing products, operations and processes are key qualifications of this position.
• Familiarity with the third‑party certification process (GLOBAL G.A.P, PrimusGFS, Harmonized GAP, Primus Standard, BRC and SQF).
• Effective communication and customer service skills.
• Well‑developed organizational and time management skills.
• Strong computer skills, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Database systems.
• Required to travel up to 80%, mostly overnight travel throughout the U.S. and possibly international.
• Spanish verbal proficiency, preferred: must be able to conduct field interviews with agricultural workers, address hygiene practices, and discuss basic agricultural…