Quality Assurance Manager

Overview

The Food Quality Assurance Manager provides leadership, direction, and oversight for all food safety and quality programs, with a strong emphasis on ready-to-eat (RTE) food safety and Safe Quality Food (SQF) systems. This hands-on operational role ensures compliance with USDA, FDA, FSMA, and customer requirements while protecting consumers, customers, and brand integrity. The QA Manager drives results through sustainable processes and a culture of continuous improvement that reinforces Fresh and Ready Foods’ safety and quality values.

• Lead the development, implementation, and maintenance of the Food Safety Plan, with a focus on RTE food safety and risk mitigation
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, GMPs, sanitation, allergen, and supply chain preventive controls
• Manage the Allergen Preventive Controls Program and ensure accurate labeling and prevention of cross-contamination
• Oversee traceability systems, lot code tracking, and the written recall program
• Ensure labeling accuracy for allergens, ingredients, and nutritional information
• Lead internal and external food safety audits (USDA, FDA, GFSI, third-party)
• Respond to customer quality and safety concerns and implement corrective action
• Engage cross-functional teams in food safety practices across the production floor
• Monitor and report on food safety metrics, driving continuous improvement initiatives
• Provide training and guidance to plant personnel on food safety, sanitation, and regulatory compliance

• 6+ years of experience in Quality Assurance and Food Safety within a manufacturing environment (RTE or prepared foods preferred)
• Strong knowledge of FSMA, HACCP, and Preventive Controls for Human Food (PCQI certification)
• HACCP certification and GFSI auditor certification required
• Experience with USDA/FSIS and FDA regulatory standards
• Proven success in audit readiness, team development, and cross-functional collaboration
• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or related field
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and QA data systems
• Strong communication, coaching, and technical writing skills