Quality Assurance & Supplier Performance Lead

Topco; Itasca (IL); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage through Blue Cross/BC

Health Savings Account

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

Tuition Reimbursement

Competitive 401(k) match

Generous PTO offered

Job summary

Topco Associates is seeking a Quality Assurance Specialist - Supplier Management in Itasca, IL for a hybrid role, combining onsite three days and virtual two days per week. You will evaluate supplier audits, product safety practices, and performance against quality criteria to deliver brand-aligned products.

You will work under the Senior QA Manager, develop supplier information, review performance, analyze trends, and resolve consumer complaints in collaboration with suppliers, product

Qualifications

• Minimum four-year college degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Microbiology, Engineering, Chemistry or related field preferred.
• 1–3 years of related experience in QA or supplier safety roles.
• Knowledge of HACCP, GMPs, FSMA rules applicable to the product area.
• Ability to travel by air or car as required.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manages supplier facilities approval process and audits.
• Maintains supplier approval docs and RAQs; ensures proper reporting.
• Develops supplier performance metrics and drives continuous improvement.
• Reviews supplier records during onsite visits for compliance with specifications.
• Collaborates with regulatory compliance to ensure product/packaging conformance.
• Assists in developing new suppliers and maintaining supplier information.

Skills

Production & Distribution

Quality Assurance

Audit & Compliance

FSMA knowledge

Communication skills

Education

Four-year college degree in Food Technology / Food Science / Microbiology / Engineering / Chemistry or related field

Job description

Topco Associates is seeking a Quality Assurance Specialist - Supplier Management in Itasca, IL for a hybrid role, combining onsite three days and virtual two days per week. You will evaluate supplier audits, product safety practices, and performance against quality criteria to deliver brand-aligned products.

You will work under the Senior QA Manager, develop supplier information, review performance, analyze trends, and resolve consumer complaints in collaboration with suppliers, product