Food Safety Specialist

About the Role

The Food Safety Specialist ensures Babcock Dairy operates in full compliance with federal and state food safety regulations, enabling the legal and safe production of dairy products for human consumption. This role oversees the implementation, validation, and verification of all food safety protocols mandated by the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and internal plant requirements.

Responsibilities

• Complete and maintain all required food safety documentation.
• Conduct analytical and sensory testing of incoming ingredients to detect and prevent fraud.
• Monitor and test allergen control systems to safeguard product integrity.
• Examine production processes to identify potential hazards and develop protocols to control or eliminate risks.
• Edit, maintain, and store records electronically with proficiency in Microsoft applications and Google Docs.
• Train staff on food safety protocols and provide clear documentation and reporting.
• Confront and address issues directly, including identifying mistakes, correcting errors, and ensuring accountability across teams.
• Operate, clean, and maintain research equipment and research area.
• Track inventory levels and place replenishment orders.
• Review, analyze, and interpret data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences.
• Perform literature reviews and write reports.
• Provide operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers.
• Conduct research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s).
• Collect data and monitor test results.
• Participate in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials.
• Develop and maintain all food safety documentation for the food plant.

Qualifications

• Experience using analytical and/or sensory testing methods for quality assurance and fraud detection.
• Experience conducting risk assessments and implementing corrective actions to ensure compliance and product safety.
• Must have, or be willing to obtain within 6 months of hire, PCQI (Preventive Controls Qualified Individual) certification.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in dairy or other food manufacturing environments.
• Use of food safety management systems (FSMS) and electronic compliance platforms.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Food Science, or related field preferred.

Additional Information

A 12-month evaluation period may be required. A criminal background check may be required. The cost of PCQI certification training will be covered by the department, and training may be completed while in work status.

Department

College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Department of Food Sciences, Babcock Dairy Plant

Pay

The minimum salary for this position is $53,500. Actual salary will depend on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and paid time off; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. Additional benefits information is available.