Quality Assurance Manager
About the role
The Krusteaz Company is seeking a Quality Assurance Manager to lead and manage quality efforts in our Manhattan, Kansas facility. This role involves both leadership and hands-on involvement in quality processes, including the quality lab and production floor. The manager will collaborate with cross-functional teams and play a key role in building customer relationships and resolving quality issues.
Responsibilities
Lead and manage the Quality Assurance team, including hiring, training, performance management, and development.
Oversee all foundational Food Safety and Quality programs.
Develop and execute a site-specific strategic quality plan to meet business objectives.
Facilitate change and lead improvement efforts.
Collaborate with other plants' quality teams and corporate QA to establish overall quality goals and standards.
Align Quality department objectives with the overall plant’s goals and work closely with other departments such as Operations, Purchasing, Logistics, and R&D.
Identify and implement quality improvement initiatives using a data-driven approach within a collaborative environment.
Ensure that food safety, security, and regulatory compliance are met through programs such as HACCP, GMP, microbial surveillance, and product protection.
Manage plant-level quality programs, including pest control, sanitation, waste management, and chemical safety practices.
Serve as a technical resource for internal teams, customers, and suppliers regarding quality and food safety.
Oversee and manage plant inspections and audits (e.g., FDA, BRC, Kosher), implementing action plans as needed.
Lead the plant’s response to quality complaints, including investigation and resolution.
Proactively identify and mitigate food safety risks.
Represent the Quality department in interactions with customers, sales teams, auditors, and regulatory agencies.
Develop and monitor SOP’s for quality systems.
Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws.
Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Food Science, related technical science degree, or equivalent experience.
Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in QA or quality-related function.
Minimum of 5 years’ experience leading quality programs in food industry preferred.
Prior experience developing and managing critical food safety systems.
Qualifications
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals for qualified disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Ability to effectively communicate and work in a dynamic environment.
Capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds regularly.
Manual dexterity for operating equipment and using tools in a manufacturing environment.
Exposure to moderate noise, food dust, and temperature variations in a production setting while wearing PPE.
Skills
Leadership skills.
Hands-on experience in quality assurance and food safety.
Collaborative problem-solving skills.
Data-driven decision-making.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Benefits
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
401(K) matching.
4 weeks of paid time off.
10 paid holidays.
1 paid personal holiday.
Company-provided life insurance and disability insurance.
Flexible spending account.
Healthcare savings account.
Voluntary accident insurance.
Voluntary critical illness insurance.
Tuition reimbursement.