Quality Assurance Operations Manager – Allerton, Iowa

Responsibilities

• The Quality Assurance Manager leads a team to ensure compliance with infant formula standards, regulations, FSMA, certifications (including GFSI, Organic, Kosher), and internal quality and food safety programs and policies. This role provides leadership within the facility, driving positive change through influence and example, and acts as the primary quality liaison with the production team.
• Responsible for ensuring plant compliance with Food Safety and Quality Plans, as well as supporting prerequisite programs. Manages quality operations activities to ensure adherence to all applicable state and federal regulations, and international standards for the manufacture of food and infant formula products. Collaborates with Production through cross-functional teamwork to maintain an effective plant hygiene plan and a cGMP environment.
• Responsible for the day-to-day operations of the laboratory and ensuring good laboratory practices are implemented, documented, and sustained. Conducts oversight management for any testing that is outsourced.
• Oversees the supplier approval program and the chemical review/approval program for the site. Actively supports and participates in the internal audit program. Manages the material/product lot release process and participates in regulatory inspections (e.g., PDA) and third-party audits/certifications (e.g., SQF, Kosher, Organic) as requested.
• Participates/supports investigations relating to non-conforming events (including product complaints) driving to root cause(s) and effective resolution (corrective actions).
• Monitors compliance with customer expectations and specifications, communicates any issues or concerns, and ensures audit readiness and preparedness for customers, regulatory agencies, and visitors/contractors.
• Supports the execution of validation processes and improvement projects.
• Supports change control program to enable robust risk assessment and decisions.
• Tracks and reports on key plant quality metrics and trends and prepares and issues monthly quality reports to management to ensure ongoing transparency.
• Participates in training for plant personnel and visitors concerning food safety, FSMA and cGMPs.
• Provides support to quality leadership during unplanned events or emergencies.

Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in Food Science, Biological Sciences or related field
• 1-3 years of supervisory experience. 2-5 years of experience in food processing (ideally Dairy or Formula).
• SQF Practitioner certified or obtained within first 90 days.
• Working knowledge of 21 CFR Part 106, 107, & 117.
• Background in overseeing laboratory facilities and equipment experience.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of supervision, training, and personnel management.
• Accuracy and thoroughness in completion of duties is crucial to success
• Able to organize and prioritize resources to achieve goals
• Able to multi-task; able to keep organized records; able to work with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Able to perform analysis, mathematical calculations, and statistical evaluations.
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Able to collaborate effectively, foster good teamwork, and promote a team environment.
• Able to handle challenging situations with professionalism.
• Able to adapt and manage to change effectively.
• Able to take initiative and able to perform duties without constant supervision.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 40 lb and regularly go up/downstairs.
• Job involves approximately 60% walking/standing and 40% sitting at desk/computer.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time and: stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, balance, climb as part of audit routine.

Regulatory Requirements

• Adhere to all safety policies and procedures, follow cGMP's, and work in a manner consistent with all corporate and regulatory, food safety, quality and sanitation requirements.
• Will comply with all applicable federal, state, and local standards.

Details:

• Direct Hire
• Salary dependent on experience plus eligible for annual bonuses and company equity
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision covered 100%, 90% for family
• 6% 401(k) match
• Flexible paid time off and Holidays
• Onsite only. Eligible for relocation assistance