QA Continuous Improvement Coordinator (Contract)

Daiya Foods Inc; Burnaby; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading plant-based food company in Burnaby is seeking a QA Continuous Improvement Coordinator. This role involves overseeing Quality Systems for third-party manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives. Ideal for applicants with a Bachelor's in Food Science and some QA/QC experience, this 12-month contract emphasizes collaboration with multiple teams. The salary ranges from $50,000–$60,000 annually, with benefits including health coverage and flexible work arrangements.

Benefits

Extended health benefits

Flex days

On-site fitness studio

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of QA/QC experience in a food manufacturing environment.
• Experience with third-party manufacturing partners is an asset.
• Practical understanding of HACCP, Prerequisite Programs, and GMPs.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain Quality System documentation.
• Support co-manufacturers in sustaining programs for quality certifications.
• Conduct routine reviews of testing data for compliance.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or related field

Job description

Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada

We are the original cheese revolutionaries, leading the charge in plant-based. We seamlessly blend tradition with innovation to change the change the landscape of plant-based and the way people eat. We are accountable, passionate, curious and purposeful. We celebrate diversity, compassion, and mutual trust for one another.

SUMMARY

The QA Continuous Improvement Coordinator oversees the development, maintenance, and ongoing enhancement of Quality Systems related to co‑manufacturers and 3PL partners. This role works closely with the Quality teams at co‑manufacturers and 3PLs, while also collaborating with Daiya’s Quality Assurance (QA), Research & Development (R&D), and Supply Chain groups ensuring every third‑party partner upholds the highest standards of quality and food safety. With equal parts precision and curiosity, the Coordinator supports continuous improvement initiatives, manages QA documentation, and provides administrative and technical assistance that strengthens Daiya’s broader FSQA programs.

This is a 12-month contract position, ideal for an early‑career to intermediate QA professional. It’s a great opportunity for someone looking to deepen their experience in Quality Systems and third‑party manufacturing while contributing to a dynamic, fast‑moving FSQA team.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Quality Systems Development, Continuous Improvements & Maintenance

• Develop, implement, update, and maintain Quality System documentation for all Daiya products produced or handled at third‑party facilities.


• Support co‑manufacturers in building and sustaining programs required for regulatory and third‑party quality certifications.


• Follow up on quality incidents and complaints for Daiya products manufactured and/or handled at 3rd party partners; provide troubleshooting support and drive continuous improvement initiatives.


• Coordinate Quality Systems continuous improvement projects and provide Quality Assurance support in new product commercialization projects.

Co‑manufacturing and 3PL partners Compliance Monitoring

• Conduct routine reviews of testing data for co‑manufactured products and ensure timely and accurate product release.


• Audit compliance with quality policies and procedures, including product quality and handling standards, testing results, and customer complaint management. Resolve and elevate any deviations or non‑conformances.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or a related field from a recognized institution.


• Minimum 2 years of QA/QC experience in a food manufacturing environment.


• Experience working with third‑party manufacturing partners considered an asset.


• Background in dairy or meat manufacturing is advantageous.


• Practical understanding of HACCP, Prerequisite Programs, and GMPs, with the ability to train others on these frameworks.


• Familiarity with food manufacturing processes, quality documentation, and data review.


• Understanding of customer and regulatory expectations related to food safety and quality.

RELATED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES

• Strong verbal and written communication, with the confidence to engage, influence, and collaborate across diverse teams.


• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.


• Adept at motivating teams, building partnerships, and supporting Quality System improvements.


• Robust experience in reviewing technical documents, test records, and regulatory/third‑party certification standards.


• This role requires local travel for site visits, audits, and partner meetings on a weekly basis.


• This role requires flexibility to support occasional weekend or after‑hours work, depending on operational needs.


• Works independently with ease, while staying open, approachable, and collaborative with partners and teammates.


• Spots risks and opportunities within Quality Systems early and helps guide thoughtful, timely next steps.

DAIYA’S CORE COMPETENCIES

• Emotional Intelligence – You possess the ability to manage emotions, as well as seek to understand the emotions of others around you.


• Growth Mindset – You find opportunities and possibilities when challenged, embrace continuous learning, and constantly strive to grow and improve.


• Effective Communication – You effectively listen, assess, and adjust your communication to align your intention and impact.


• Collaboration – You work with and through others to create great results for Daiya.


• Driving Results – You take the initiative to find solutions, deliver results, maintain focus, and drive accountability.


• Service Excellence – You understand and serve the needs of others (Daiyans, consumers, and our communities)

COMPENSATION, BENEFITS, & PERKS

Daiya’s compensation offerings are based on a pay‑for‑performance philosophy. The pay range for this position is from $50,000–$60,000 annually; the base pay offered is based on market location and may vary depending on job‑related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity. This is a 12-month contract position, ideal for an early‑career to intermediate QA professional.

At Daiya, investing in our people is a top priority. We believe in building a flexible, hybrid model to make work‑life harmony a reality. We strive to build diverse and high performing teams and empower continuous learning to grow and improve ourselves.

• Competitive compensation


• Extended health benefits


• Flex days


• Flexible spending account


• Fun and creative environment


• On‑site fitness studio


• Inspiring and innovative work


• Smart and passionate teams


• Making people and the planet a healthier place

At Daiya Foods, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment, one in which employees can bring their whole selves to work everyday. We welcome and celebrate differences because we believe a multitude of perspectives fosters innovation and will help us achieve our vision.

Daiya Foods humbly acknowledges that the land on which we work, live, and play is the unceded traditional territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Tsleil-Waututh, Squamish, and Musqueam Nations. This connection to the land is not only a source of inspiration but also a guiding force in our journey towards greater environmental stewardship and community engagement.