Job description
Northwest Harvest Foods is actively seeking a results driven Food QA Lead to elevate our quality and safety programs across our Portland production facility. This role collaborates with Production, R&D, and Supply Chain to ensure products meet the highest standards from raw materials through packaging. We offer a premium, fast paced environment with competitive compensation and clear paths for growth in the thriving food and beverage sector.
In this leadership role, you will own the quality assurance program, drive continuous improvement, and mentor a growing team of QA technicians. You will participate in audits, client and regulatory inspections, product releases, and supplier qualifications to ensure excellence in every batch.
Responsibility
- Lead the design and execution of the site QA program across all production lines.
- Manage HACCP, GMP, FSMA compliance and internal/external audits, including CAPA tracking and closure.
- Investigate deviations, perform root-cause analysis, and implement corrective actions with data-driven solutions.
- Oversee supplier QA activities including supplier approvals, audits, and material quality validations.
- Develop, update, and enforce SOPs, work instructions, and quality metrics dashboards.
- Coordinate product release decisions with cross-functional teams and ensure packaging integrity.
- Lead recalls readiness planning and maintenance of traceability systems.
- Coach and develop QA technicians and cross-functional staff on quality systems and best practices.
Qualification
- Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
- 5+ years in food manufacturing QA or QA leadership roles.
- Deep knowledge of HACCP, GMP, FSMA and allergen control frameworks.
- Experience with quality management systems, CAPA programs, and data analytics tools (Excel, dashboards).
- Excellent written and verbal communication, collaboration, and project management.
- Ability to work across shifts and travel up to 15% as needed.
- Professional certification such as PCQI or lead auditor is highly desirable.
- Proven track record of driving continuous improvement and supplier quality management.