Food Safety & Quality Assurance Director

CPS, Inc.; Schaumburg (IL); On-site; USD 145,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Food Safety & Quality Assurance Director to lead efforts in ensuring product quality and safety. This pivotal role involves developing and managing FSQA programs, mentoring a dynamic team, and collaborating with various departments to uphold the highest standards in food safety. With a focus on continuous improvement and regulatory compliance, the ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in the food manufacturing sector, particularly with meat and poultry. Join this innovative firm and make a significant impact in the realm of food safety and quality assurance.

Benefits

Full medical

Dental insurance

401(k)

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of experience in food safety and quality assurance in food manufacturing.
• HACCP, SQF Practitioner, and Preventive Controls Qualified Individual certifications required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing team of quality systems professionals.
• Manage FSQA programs including HACCP and GMP, ensuring compliance and quality.

Skills

Food Safety Regulations

Quality Assurance Practices

Leadership

Analytical Skills

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science

Microbiology

Chemistry

Tools

Microsoft Office

Quality Management Software

Job description

Food Safety & Quality Assurance Director

The Director of Food Safety & Quality Assurance is a key leadership position responsible for ensuring that all products meet the quality standards, comply with regulatory requirements, and are produced in a safe, hygienic environment.

The ideal candidate will be a strong leader and collaborator possessing in-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and quality assurance practices, with a proven track record of successfully partnering with stakeholder teams to achieve operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership, Team Management & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of quality systems professionals, cultivating a high-energy and hands-on culture that encourages team collaboration, growth, and continuous improvement.
• Serve as the subject matter expert for food safety and quality assurance, offering expert guidance and support to internal teams.
• Provide FSQA updates to Operations, Executive Leadership, and other departments on FSQA key initiatives, challenges, failures, and improvements.
• Manage relationships with plant inspection personnel and serve as the programs subject matter expert for food safety and quality assurance.
• Manage the PHIS admin functions, responding to regulatory non-compliance and collaborating internally.

Food Safety & Quality Program Management and Development

• Develop and manage FSQA programs, including the HACCP Program, Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures, Pest Control, and Good Manufacturing Practices.
• Manage regulatory compliance and quality systems procedures for all products across the company.
• Create effective training programs and adjust as necessary to address emerging food safety and quality challenges.
• Support and lead as needed the team in food safety audits, inspections, and assessments.
• Regularly review the programs and support development identifying improvement opportunities for effective execution.

Supplier Quality Management

• Responsible for supplier approval program management in collaboration with the procurement team.
• Oversee the supplier FSMA compliance activities with guidance to the Quality systems manager.
• Provide guidance on supplier activities related to quality, food safety, and product safety.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in food science, Food Safety, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field; or equivalent professional experience.
• 8-10 years of experience in food safety and quality assurance within the food manufacturing industry.
• Experience with raw, ready-to-eat meat and/or poultry is required.
• HACCP, SQF Practitioner and Preventive Controls Qualified Individual certifications required.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to handle multiple projects to ensure timely completion.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and quality management software.

Salary: $145,000 - $165,000

Benefits: Full medical, dental, 401(k)

Employment Type: Full-time

Job Function: Science