Independent Contractor SQF Auditor - Quality

About the role

NSF is seeking an experienced Food Safety Auditor to conduct SQF recognized food safety audits and partner with food manufacturers to strengthen compliance, quality, and consumer trust. In this highly visible role, you will serve as a trusted technical expert—evaluating food safety systems, communicating audit outcomes, and supporting continuous improvement across diverse client operations. This role is ideal for a seasoned food safety professional who thrives in a dynamic, client-facing environment and is committed to the highest standards of food safety and audit integrity.

Responsibilities

• Conduct GFSI Certification food safety audits in accordance with applicable standards and accreditation requirements
• Analyze, document, summarize, and evaluate audit findings clearly and accurately
• Communicate audit results, nonconformities, and conclusions effectively to client site management and designated representatives
• Develop and execute efficient, well-structured audit work plans to ensure timely completion of assigned audits
• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with internal teams and external clients
• Complete all required auditor training, documentation, and administrative tasks in a timely manner
• Maintain required food safety competencies, credentials, and qualifications
• Qualify for and conduct additional audit types as business needs evolve
• Perform other duties as assigned to support audit program excellence

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience working in food or packaging
• Successful completion of a Lead Auditor Course (5 days / 40 hours) either in SQF, BRCGS or FSSC 22000
• HACCP Certification (2-day course with certificate)
• Current SQF Auditor Certification
• Certified and experience working in Category 00 Quality
• Prior auditing experience in within GFSI-certified environment
• FDA Preventative Course Quality Individual (PCQI) course
• Bachelor's degree or diploma in Food Science, Food Safety, Packaging, Quality Assurance or a related field
• Documented audit log with 80+ hours of HACCP-based food safety audits (Internal audits do not qualify)
• Ability to work with multiple Certification Bodies (CBs)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build strong professional relationships
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel
• Availability for a minimum of 60 audit days per year

About NSF

With a legacy spanning more than 80 years, NSF leverages science and innovation to improve human and planet health. We provide science-driven, independent testing, inspection, certification, and advisory services and develop the very standards that drive the food, water, and life sciences industries worldwide. We empower our clients to navigate shifting regulations to improve consumer health, safety, and quality of life. One of our core values is We Are One NSF. This means that while we're one team, we embrace the cultural, ethnic, language, and demographic diversity that reflects the societies in which we live and work. Come join a team that makes a difference in the world.

As pioneers in the food safety industry, NSF is proud to play a vitally important role in helping food service businesses of all sizes, from local cafes to multinational supermarket brands, stay ahead of risks, regulations and consumer expectations, while delivering on their commitment to food safety and public health.