Quality Assurance Specialist

About the RoleWe are looking for a detail-oriented Quality Assurance Specialist to help keep our food manufacturing operation safe, compliant, and audit-ready. You will monitor production quality, support our food safety programs, and work with Production, Sanitation, and Maintenance to resolve quality issues quickly.Key ResponsibilitiesMonitor production lines to verify compliance with GMPs, SOPs, and food safety and quality specificationsPerform in-process and finished product checks (weights, temperatures, pH, labeling, packaging integrity, metal detection)Maintain and verify HACCP and Preventive Controls plans, including CCP monitoring and records reviewConduct pre-operational inspections and verify sanitation effectiveness (ATP swabs, visual checks)Support the Environmental Monitoring Program (EMP) by collecting samples across zones and following up on resultsInvestigate non-conformances, deviations, and customer complaints, and lead root cause analysis and CAPAManage product holds, releases, and traceability and mock recall exercisesPrepare documentation and support internal audits and third-party audits (SQF, BRC, FDA, USDA, customer audits)Review and maintain QA records, logs, and batch documentation for accuracy and completenessTrain production staff on GMPs, food safety, and quality standardsSupport supplier and incoming material verification, including COAs and receiving inspectionsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field (or equivalent experience)1–3 years of QA experience in food, beverage, dairy, meat. Working knowledge of HACCP, GMP, FSMA, and GFSI standards (SQF or BRC)Strong documentation, attention to detail, and problem-solving skillsClear written and verbal communicationProficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)Ability to work on the production floor in varying conditions (cold, wet, noisy) and lift up to [XX] lbsPreferred QualificationsHACCP certification and/or PCQI certificationExperience with SQF audits and internal audit programsExperience with CAPA systems and root cause analysis tools (5 Whys, Fishbone)Familiarity with ERP or QMS softwareBilingual (English/Spanish) is a plusWhat We OfferHealth, dental, and vision insurancePaid time off and holidaysCareer growth into QA Supervisor and Manager rolesTraining and certification support