Job Description
Job Description
SUMMARY: The Food Safety and Quality Assurance (FSQA) Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of seafood products here at SPE. This position supports the Director of FSQA by assisting in the implementation of rigorous quality assurance measures, conducting inspections and audits, investigating quality issues, and contributing to the continuous improvement of food safety and quality standards and systems within our seafood processing plant.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
> Food Safety & Quality Monitoring
- Monitor operations to ensure compliance with USDA regulations, company policies, and HACCP plans.
- Conduct routine pre-operational and operational inspections of equipment, facilities, and product handling.
- Verify sanitation effectiveness, CCPs, and prerequisite programs (SSOPs, GMPs).
- Report deviations and support timely corrective and preventive actions.
- Analyze plant-level quality and food safety data to identify trends, risks, and areas for improvement.
- Develop and deliver regular reports and presentations to leadership regarding KPIs, audit outcomes, non-conformance trends, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Support product holds, reworks, and release decisions based on quality evaluations and SOPs.
> Documentation & Program Maintenance
- Maintain, update, and organize quality and food safety documentation, including HACCP plans, SSOPs, GMPs, SOPs, and food defense programs.
- Ensure all quality system records are complete, accurate, and audit-ready at all times.
- Support document control processes, including version control, formatting, and archival of historical records.
> Internal Audits & Corrective Actions
- Assist in preparing for and conducting internal audits related to USDA, GFSI (SQF), and customer requirements.
- Track non-conformances, corrective actions, and preventive actions (CAPAs); support follow-up verification activities.
- Support traceability exercises, mock recalls, and actual recall processes, as needed.
> Training & Communication
- Coordinate and document training for plant staff on food safety and quality programs.
- Distribute updated SOPs, policies, and regulatory changes to relevant departments and ensure acknowledgment is recorded.
- Serve as a resource to QA, production, and sanitation teams regarding system requirements and documentation practices.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field is preferred.
- Certification in food safety (e.g., HACCP, SQF, or PCQI) is a plus.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in quality control or food safety, food processing, or related industries.
- Proven experience in implementing quality control systems, audits, and compliance with regulatory standards in a food processing environment.
- Strong knowledge of processing standards, regulations, and QC systems.
- Excellent understanding of HACCP, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and other food safety protocols.
- Ability to read, interpret, and apply food safety regulations, industry standards, and customer requirements.
- Bilingual in English and Spanish is a plus.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Strong communication skills and ability to train and guide team members.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- The FSQA Specialist will work in a seafood processing facility where they may be exposed to varying temperatures and conditions (e.g., cold storage areas, seafood processing lines).
- Occasional weekend or evening work may be required depending on production schedules and urgent quality concerns.
- The role may require standing for extended periods, walking, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
KEY COMPETENCIES:
- Teamwork & Collaboration
- Effective Communication
- Analytical Thinking & Problem-Solving
- Reliability & Punctuality
- Attention to Detail
- Documentation & Reporting
- Professionalism & Respect
Why Apply? Join a vibrant, fast-growing company where your contributions matter! As a valued team member, you'll enjoy a well-rounded benefits package and perks designed to support your well-being and career growth:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with generous company match
- Paid time off opportunities
- Exclusive employee discounts
- Continuous learning and career advancement