Provide leadership and direction to QA Techs by managing the workload, training and employee relations issues. Ensure quality and food safety initiatives to link product development, manufacturing, process improvement with customer expectations are maintained. Ensure plant is “inspection ready” in compliance with requirements in preparation for third party, partner, regulatory, and certification audits. Manages the collection, analysis and reporting of performance and product conformance quality data to inform production department managers on status and priorities of quality issues. Perform audits and Quality tests with operations and QA staff to address quality related issues. Develop and maintain quality information records and reports (customer complaints, internal issues, etc) to adequately communicate production capabilities and quality issue priorities and status, with regular reporting. Ensure the staff is aware of their responsibility to report food safety, quality and regulatory compliance with authority to initiate action Responsible for ensuring the production of a safe, wholesome and quality product and requires trained designees when applicable. Assists in hiring and training of new employees Performs other duties as requested by management. High school diploma or general equivalency diploma (GED) required. Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science, Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, or related field highly preferred 3+ years experience in a product development or quality role, preferably in food manufacturing Demonstrated expertise in building Quality Plans including strategy and tactics that have successfully met Quality/Food Safety KPI's and Quality Goals Advanced understanding of GMP, HACCP, FSMA, Safe Quality Food (SQF) Principles, Food Defense Principles & Quality Management Systems. (QMS) Understanding of Lean Six Sigma/Continuous Improvement is helpful but not required Previous experience using SAP and SPC (InfinityQS) is preferred. Excellent written and verbal communication skills across a broad variety of departments Ability to positively and comfortably handle and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment with self-motivation and focused attention to detail. Ability to develop protocols, training materials and reports with the guidance of resources Self starter; take charge, positive and proactive attitude