Quality Assurance Manager

Job Description

Launched in 2020, Village Gourmet brings together specialty producers of fine meat and snacking options to help America eat better. With a dedication to quality, Village Gourmet supports its specialty food brands with the resources they need to grow operations and bring their products to consumers across the country.

Comprised of four SQF-certified facilities across the USA and a national marketing and sales network, companies within Village Gourmet share the same commitment to using time-honored recipes and high-quality ingredients, from fresh sausage, classic charcuterie, accompaniments, snacks, and more.

Longhini Sausage has been handcrafting Italian sausage and other Italian specialties in New Haven, Connecticut since 1950. Longhini takes pride in sourcing all-natural ingredients and maintaining the highest quality standards set forth by its founder almost 70 years ago.

JOB SUMMARY

As a pivotal member of our team, the Quality Assurance and Food Safety Manager is tasked with ensuring the highest levels of food safety regulations compliance, maintaining product quality, and upholding stringent safety and sanitation standards within our facility. This role demands the application of scientific principles in decision-making, effective team management, and strong regulatory body liaison to safeguard public health and our company's reputation.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Regulatory Compliance: Guarantee adherence to all food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory programs, ensuring documentation is robust to meet USDA and additional regulatory body requirements.

Root Cause Analysis: Conduct thorough investigations into product and process discrepancies, pinpoint root causes, and implement corrective measures swiftly to minimize downtime and product risks.

Program Development: In collaboration with the Quality Director, recommend and integrate improvements to food safety (HACCP) and quality protocols.

Audits and Verification: Oversee the organization and execution of USDA verification tasks, third-party audits, and food safety system assessments.

Stakeholder Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with USDA/IPP and Organic Certification Agency representatives, ensuring regulatory compliance.

Continuous Improvement: Drive enhancements in product quality, sanitation, and food safety, coordinating with the Quality Assurance team and Operations.

Sanitation Program Management: Lead the sanitation initiative, tracking performance, conducting training, and engaging with USDA regarding sanitation outcomes.

Micro Sampling: Oversee verification activities like micro sampling to validate sanitation efficacy and address negative micro and shelf-life data.

Trend Identification: Identify and rectify sanitation trends to maintain product safety and quality.

Team Leadership: Manage the Food Safety and Quality Assurance team, overseeing training, development, and internal audit activities.

SQF Programs: Support the development and revision of SQF Food Safety Programs, including the annual reassessment of HACCP Plans.

Communication: Ensure critical information is communicated to all relevant staff for effective SQF System implementation and maintenance.

Performance Management: Oversee the performance, schedules, and assignments of quality control technicians.

Collaboration: Coordinate with the Warehouse Manager to ensure GMP and allergen material storage compliance.

Labeling Expertise: Provide expertise in USDA label development and use of approved labeling software.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

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

HACCP and SQF (or equivalent food safety certification) certification.

Minimum of 5 years' experience in quality assurance within the food industry.

In-depth knowledge of USDA, FDA regulations, and GMPs.

Strong leadership skills and experience managing a team.

Proficient in data analysis and quality management software.

Effective communication and problem-solving skills.

Bilingual (English/Spanish) Preferred

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position involves working in a manufacturing environment, which may include exposure to extreme temperatures, loud noises, and standing for extended periods.

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.

Must be able to perform physical tasks, including bending, lifting, and maneuvering through tight spaces as required.

JOB DETAILS

This is a full-time, exempt position. Normal work hours are Monday through Friday, 7:00 am – 4:00 pm, with overtime as needed.

Affirmative action plan/equal employment opportunity (AAP/EEO) statement

Village Gourmet provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.