Plant FSQA Assistant Manager (SugarCreek)

DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

Support Plant FSQA Manager in overseeing the day-to-day activities of the FSQA department at the plant, implementing and assessing FSQA initiatives to improve products and processes related to quality, food safety and consistency.  Participate in and lead projects and audits to improve plant quality and food safety performance in conjunction with Corporate FSQA Management.  Update and maintain plant specific FSQA programs under the Plant FSQA Manager’s direction.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordinate the development and implementation of FSQA programs, policies, procedures, trainings, and related material under the guidance of the Plant FSQA Manager.
• Train, coach, and develop FSQA and plant personnel on various subjects as they relate to food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.
• Advise Plant Management on FSQA issues relating to changes in product, processes, or facility design.
• Coordinate internal and external plant FSQA audits under direction of Plant FSQA manager.
• Resolve non-conformance issues along with quality and regulatory concerns at plant and warehouse facilities. 
• Create and coordinate work schedules for Plant FSQA Department, assigning duties and resolving scheduling conflicts as needed.
• Provide feedback to Plant and Corporate Management on various FSQA issues as requested.
• Work with Plant Management to develop corrective action plans, providing updated plans and guidance to Corporate FSQA, Sales, Supply Chain and third parties as directed by Plant FSQA Manager.
• Interview applicants for open FSQA positions and provide feedback to Plant Management on hiring recommendations. 
• Fill in for Plant FSQA Manager when needed.
• Comply with federal, state, and company policies, procedures, and regulations. 
• Support all safety, food quality and sanitation initiatives and policies. 
• Follow SugarCreek safety rules and procedures. 
• Perform other duties and tasks as assigned. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Bachelor's Degree with a major in chemistry, biology, microbiology, food science, or related field; or equivalent experience.

Experience: 3+ years of experience in a food safety or quality assurance role, preferable in a manufacturing setting.

Certification Requirements: None required.

ABILITIES, KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILLS REQUIRED

• Possess strong understanding of the importance of HACCP, Food Safety, and Inspection Services (FSIS) and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) requirements.
• Able to communicate effectively and efficiently using both verbal and written skills.
• Able to use computers with strong proficiency in Microsoft Office programs. 
• Able to read, interpret and review complex information related to quality and sanitation practices and regulations.
• Able to use critical thinking to identify strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions or approaches to problems.
• Know how to work cooperatively with others.
• Able to use simple tools and basic lab equipment (i.e. scale, caliper, magnet, thermometer, etc.) 
• Possess strong leadership skills, independent thinking, organizational skills, and planning abilities.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

No unusual physical requirements. Physical requirements are consistent with typical quality assurance positions, including some sitting with some standing/walking required.  Other light physical activity like using stairs or occasionally moving items weighing less than 15lbs may be required as needed.  Some travel may be required in between plants. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Some travel to other locations is required.

Some work is performed in a comfortable, indoor, office-like facility.  Some work is performed in an indoor, manufacturing facility with proximity to heavy and hazardous machinery.  Safety wear is required, including hard hat, hairnet, hearing protection, safety glasses, steel toe boots, coats, and other necessary equipment.  Some work is performed outside of the manufacturing facility.