QA & Compliance Technician - Food Safety & Audits

Carolina CoPacking; Henderson (NC); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits, including medical, vision, and dental coverage

Generous paid time off and 'dream' days off

Job summary

A food manufacturing company in North Carolina is seeking a Compliance & Quality Assurance Technician to ensure food products meet quality standards and regulatory requirements. This hands-on role involves product testing, data analysis, and auditing processes to maintain compliance across production. Candidates should have a degree in Food Science or a related field along with experience in quality assurance. Competitive salary range of $45,000 to $55,000 per year is offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2-3 years of experience in Quality Assurance or Compliance within a food manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of GMP, HACCP, and FDA food safety regulations.
• SQF certification a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct sensory evaluations and taste tests on finished products.
• Prepare, review, and analyze all analytical and laboratory data related to production batches.
• Conduct weekly internal audits to ensure compliance with company policies.

Skills

Hands-on experience with laboratory testing

Strong communication skills

Attention to detail

Analytical and problem-solving abilities

Proficient in Microsoft Office

Education

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field

Job description

Compliance & Quality Assurance Technician:

The Compliance & Quality Assurance Technician ensures that all food products are produced in accordance with company quality standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements. This role is both hands-on and analytical, responsible for tasting products, performing in-process quality checks, reviewing analytical data, and maintaining compliance documentation. The position also includes conducting audits, training production associates, and working closely with the Cook Room, Bottle Room, and Food Science teams to ensure food safety, quality, and consistency across all product lines.

Key Responsibilities:

Product Evaluation & Quality Testing:

• Conduct sensory evaluations and taste tests on finished products to ensure flavor, texture, and appearance meet company standards.
• Perform and document quality tests and checks throughout each production run—from raw materials through packaging and finished goods.
• Verify that all in-process and finished product samples meet established specifications.
• Identify, report, and assist in resolving any deviations or non-conformances in product quality.
  
  
  

Data Analysis & Documentation:

• Prepare, review, and analyze all analytical and laboratory data related to production batches.
• Maintain accurate and complete quality records, test results, and compliance paperwork.
• Create and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), quality checklists, and audit documentation as required.
• Support traceability efforts by ensuring all quality and compliance documentation is properly filed and retrievable.
  
  
  

Auditing & Compliance:

• Conduct weekly internal audits to ensure compliance with company policies, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and food safety standards.
• Participate in external audits and assist in preparing reports and corrective action plans.
• Verify proper sanitation, allergen control, labeling, and lot traceability practices are consistently followed.
  
  
  

Production & Cross-Department Collaboration:

• Work directly with Cook Room and Bottle Room associates to monitor and maintain quality during production.
• Collaborate with the Food Science and Research & Development teams to evaluate new products and process improvements.
• Provide on-the-floor support and oversight in production and GMP-controlled areas to ensure consistent adherence to quality standards.
• Train and guide production associates in proper quality procedures, food safety, and documentation practices.
  
  
  

Qualifications:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum 2-3 years of experience in Quality Assurance or Compliance within a food manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of GMP, HACCP, and FDA food safety regulations. SQF certification a plus.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory testing, data entry, and analytical review.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and quality management systems.
  
  
  

Core Competencies:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Accuracy, consistency, and attention to detail
• Ability to train and mentor production personnel
• Effective time management and prioritization skills
• Commitment to food safety, quality, and continuous improvement
  
  
  

Work Environment:

• Food manufacturing facility with on the production floor responsibilities
• Regular exposure to temperature variations, food ingredients, and production equipment
• Must follow all GMP, safety, and hygiene requirements at all times
  
  
  

BENEFITS:

• Experience a diverse range of comprehensive benefits, including medical, vision, and dental coverage.
• Take time away from work and recharge with generous paid time off and "dream" days off.
  
  
  

Participate in exciting company events that foster camaraderie and team sp