Quality Assurance Manager

Quality Assurance Manager at

RodgersHouder:

Human Capital Solutions Quality Assurance Manager at

RodgersHouder:

Human Capital Solutions in Westchester, Illinois Posted in about 24 hours ago.

Type:

full-time

Job Description:

A growing food manufacturing organization is seeking a Quality Control Manager to oversee plant-level quality systems, regulatory compliance, and food safety initiatives. This leadership role is responsible for maintaining and enhancing programs that support customer expectations, regulatory standards, and continuous improvement across the facility. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical knowledge of food safety systems, experience leading quality teams in a manufacturing environment, and the ability to partner cross-functionally to drive operational excellence and product integrity.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Report directly to the Director of Food Safety & Quality Assurance.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with all applicable food safety and regulatory requirements, including FDA, USDA-FSIS, and customer-specific standards.
• Manage and strengthen GFSI-aligned quality systems, including certification programs such as BRCGS, SQF, or related standards.
• Lead, coach, and develop the Quality Control team to ensure consistency in product evaluation, testing accuracy, and adherence to established procedures.
• Oversee sanitation verification activities and support compliance with SSOPs and plant hygiene expectations.
• Participate in HACCP and Food Safety initiatives, including verification of preventive controls and risk mitigation processes throughout production.
• Coordinate internal and third-party laboratory testing programs; review findings, identify trends, and communicate concerns or opportunities to leadership.
• Drive investigation and resolution of quality issues through root cause analysis and corrective/preventive action processes.
• Support customer audits, regulatory inspections, and third-party assessments by preparing documentation and assisting with facility walkthroughs.
• Monitor key quality indicators and food safety metrics to identify trends, improve performance, and reduce non-conformances.
• Collaborate closely with Operations, Sanitation, Maintenance, and Supply Chain teams to address quality-related matters and improve plant performance.
• Provide quality oversight during product launches, ingredient changes, and process modifications.
• Maintain accurate quality documentation and ensure records meet internal and external compliance standards.
• Assist with employee training initiatives related to GMPs, HACCP, food safety, and quality procedures.
• Partner with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders to ensure specifications and expectations are consistently achieved.
• Make final disposition decisions regarding product release, hold status, and non-conforming materials.
• Promote a culture centered around accountability, continuous improvement, and food safety excellence.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in Quality Assurance or Quality Control within a food manufacturing environment.
• HACCP certification required; PCQI certification strongly preferred.
• Hands-on experience working within GFSI-certified environments such as BRCGS, SQF, or

FSSC22000.

• Strong understanding of

FDA FSMA

requirements, USDA-FSIS regulations, allergen controls, labeling standards, and food safety compliance.

• Experience utilizing root cause analysis, CAPA methodologies, and risk-based problem-solving tools.
• Strong analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and drive informed decisions.
• Proven ability to lead teams, influence cross-functional departments, and maintain high quality standards in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including audit preparation and technical documentation.
• Strong organizational and leadership capabilities with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.