Quality Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary

The Quality Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance within a cheese manufacturing facility. This role ensures that all products meet internal quality standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements. The position leads Food Quality (FQ) audits, manages laboratory operations, and drives continuous improvement in quality systems.

Key Responsibilities

Quality & Food Safety Management

• Develop, implement, and maintain the Quality Management System (QMS) in compliance with FDA, USDA, and SQF/BRC standards
• Ensure adherence to GMPs, HACCP, and SSOPs
• Lead and manage Food Quality (FQ) audits, including internal, external, and customer audits
• Act as the primary contact for regulatory agencies and third-party auditors

Audit & Compliance

• Prepare for and lead FQ, SQF, FDA, and customer audits
• Ensure corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) are implemented and effective
• Maintain audit readiness at all times
• Review and update policies to ensure compliance with changing regulations

Laboratory Management

• Oversee on-site quality control laboratory operations
• Ensure accurate testing of milk, cheese, and environmental samples
• Maintain lab equipment and calibration programs
• Review lab data to identify trends and ensure product safety and consistency

Production Support

• Collaborate with production teams to ensure quality standards are met
• Monitor critical control points (CCPs)
• Investigate non-conformances and customer complaints
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives

Team Leadership

• Supervise and train QA/QC staff and lab technicians
• Promote a strong food safety and quality culture
• Conduct performance evaluations and training programs

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain records of audits, lab results, and quality reports
• Analyze data and report quality performance metrics
• Ensure traceability and recall readiness systems are in place

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, Microbiology, or a related field (preferred)

Experience

• 5+ years of experience in food manufacturing quality management
• Experience with FQ audits and certification standards (SQF/BRC)
• Hands-on experience managing a food testing laboratory

Skills & Competencies

• Knowledge of cheese manufacturing processes
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations and audit requirements
• Experience with microbiological and chemical testing
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Bilingual preferred (not required)

Preferred Certifications

• HACCP Certification
• SQF Practitioner
• PCQI Certification