Job description
Acme Foods Co. is a fast-growing producer of high-quality prepared meals, committed to safety, sustainability, and culinary innovation. We are seeking a hands-on Quality Assurance Manager to lead our QA/QC programs across production facilities in Chicago and support product launches from concept to shelf.
In this role, you will partner with R&D, Operations, and Supply Chain to safeguard product quality and regulatory compliance while driving continuous improvement and operational excellence. You will mentor a quality-focused team, implement robust testing strategies, and ensure documentation accuracy across all Quality Management System (QMS) processes.
We offer a competitive compensation package, a collaborative culture, and opportunities to influence product development in a dynamic, consumer-focused market.
Responsibility
- Lead QA/QC programs across all production lines to ensure product safety, quality, and regulatory compliance (HACCP, GMP, FSMA).
- Develop, implement, and continually improve QC testing protocols, sampling plans, and analytical methods.
- Collaborate with R&D, Operations, and Supply Chain to support new product launches from concept to commercialization.
- Oversee internal and supplier audits; manage CAPA processes and drive corrective actions.
- Monitor key performance indicators (yield, defect rate, complaint trends) and lead data-driven continuous improvement initiatives.
- Train and mentor quality staff on GMP, food safety, sanitation, and quality systems.
- Lead supplier quality management, incoming materials inspection, and vendor scorecards.
Qualification
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum 5 years of QA/QC experience in food manufacturing, with strong knowledge of HACCP, GMP, and FSMA.
- Proven track record in managing audits (SQF, BRC, or equivalent) and CAPA programs.
- Strong analytical skills, data-driven mindset, and proficiency with QC software and ERP systems.
- Excellent communication, cross-functional collaboration, and problem-solving abilities.
- Experience with microbiology, analytical testing, and documentation of quality data.