Quality Assurance Lead

Job Purpose Implement, monitor, and document quality initiatives as well as provide quality support for production and manufacturing departments under the direction of the QA Supervisor/Manager. Perform a variety of routine to complex tasks including sampling, inspecting, and analyzing raw material, finished product, and work in progress for quality and food safety in compliance with Company and customer standards. Essential Functions Monitor daily QA Technician activities to ensure company policies are being followed; provide feedback and recommend corrective actions as neededAssume necessary operation and administrative duties in the absence of immediate supervisorServe as backup when QA Technicians are on leave (emergency, vacation, sick and/or FMLAAssist with training new QA Technicians; assist production with cGMP and safety orientationMonitor plant operations to ensure sanitary operational procedures are followed according to cGMPsPerform pre-operational inspections and report concerns to QA Supervisor/ManagerInspect incoming raw materials; review COAs and CPCs as requiredInitiate and complete the hold process for non-conforming product, raw materials, and other materials as required; follow up and complete disposition when determinedMonitor and verify CCPs/preventive controls as requiredPerform environmental swabbing for bacteria and pathogens; prepare, document, and send swabs to third party lab as requiredMaintain various production and QA documentsPerform and lead food safety, quality, and cGMP auditsDevelop quality specifications, assist in the commercialization of new products, and provide assistance during first production runs/plant trialsPerform label and packaging verificationInitiate actions to prevent non-conformities relating to food safety, product quality, and safety systemAssist in auditing the food safety/HACCP programSupport facility with required certifications: organic, non-GMO, kosher, etc.Assist with regulatory and independent inspections and auditsServe as backup for Sanitation Lead (emergency, vacation, sick and/or FMLA)Serve as a resource for other departments as needed to ensure compliance to food safety and quality standardsSupport food safety program, quality standards, and legality of products manufactured in the facilityPerform other job-related duties as assigned Qualifications Associate's/Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience2+ years of experience working in a food manufacturing environment; knowledge of general food safety programs and policies including government regulationsHACCP and PCQI certified or willing to become certifiedOperational knowledge of computers and Microsoft Office applicationsDemonstrated ability to lead a diverse workforceAbility to take initiative and be assertive when neededStrong written and verbal communication skillsStrong problem-solving skillsAbility to organize, manage multiple priorities, and maintain high attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.