Quality Systems Manager

Davita Inc.; Killingly Center (CT); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the food production sector is looking for a Quality Systems Manager to ensure top quality standards and integrate quality systems across all departments. The successful candidate will lead quality initiatives, support operational efficiency, and collaborate with various teams to uphold the company’s reputation for excellence.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in Quality Assurance in food production preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to enforce accountability in processes.
• Ability to conduct product testing using relevant equipment.

Responsibilities

• Manage quality control systems within the bakery.
• Establish product standards and oversee quality evaluations.
• Develop training programs on quality principles for staff.

Skills

Lean manufacturing principles

Six Sigma

Continuous improvement methodologies

Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred

Quality Management certification (e.g., AIB graduate)

Job description

H&S Family of Bakeries

The H&S Family of Bakeries are a network of 10 bakeries and multiple distribution centers along the East Coast, all committed to one thing: producing the best quality bread products possible. H&S Family of Bakeries includes Northeast Foods, H&S Bakery and Schmidt Baking Co. Together, our baked goods can be found in a wide range of establishments, from fast food and quick-service restaurants to cafeterias, hospitals, grocery stores and universities.

The Quality Systems Manager (QSM) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality products to our customers daily. They lead the charge in fostering a culture of quality across all departments, integrating quality standards with operational efficiency, and preventing subpar products from leaving the bakery. The ideal candidate will champion quality initiatives, drive continuous improvement efforts, and uphold rigorous standards to maintain our reputation for excellence.

Primary Job Duties:

• Manage the systems that underpin quality control within the bakery.
• Establish and integrate product standards, including visual cues on the production floor.
• Oversee data collection, process measurements, analysis, and reporting for Statistical Process Control (SPC).
• Ensure thorough product quality evaluations, including daily scoring and laboratory analyses.
• Monitor and address customer complaints, implementing effective problem-solving solutions.
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs), leading meetings focused on quality improvement.
• Develop and deliver training programs on quality principles and product scoring calibration for plant employees.
• Identify opportunities to minimize waste and enhance operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with food defense and safety programs.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by ownership or the plant general manager.

Education: Bachelor's degree preferred; industry-specific training or certification desired.

• Prior experience in quality management, with certifications such as AIB graduate or relevant industry credentials preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Minimum three years of experience in Quality Assurance systems implementation and management, with at least two years in a manufacturing environment, preferably in food production.
• Minimum three years of experience in process design or enforcement accountability.
• Minimum three years of experience as a lead or key member of a quality team, with demonstrated cross-functional collaboration at executive leadership levels.
• Experience in the baked goods industry is advantageous.
• Proficiency in interpreting and enforcing Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), sanitation procedures, product recall protocols, and food safety standards.
• Familiarity with statistical methods and tools for quality control.
• Ability to conduct product testing using relevant equipment.
• Physically capable of navigating all areas of the plant.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Flexibility to work various shifts as required.
• Proficiency in using general office equipment, including computers and relevant software applications.

OTHER: The role requires standing, walking, manual dexterity, reaching, climbing, and stooping.

• Work environment may include exposure to varying temperatures, moving machinery, chemicals, and moderate to loud noise levels.
• Vision requirements include close and distance vision, color perception, peripheral vision, and depth perception.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The H&S Family of Bakeries is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on various factors, including race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, or membership in an employee organization.

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.