Manages the testing of raw materials, in-process and finished products, to ensure compliance with company, customer and regulatory agency requirements. Inspects the plant and grounds and audits the production process for GMP compliance. Provides necessary documentation for all controls and procedures; assists with the preparation of technical documents for raw materials and finished products. The position functions as an SQF Practitioner, and plant HACCP Coordinator. Responsible for contributing to the efficient and profitable operation of the plant. This individual must maintain a positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in ways that foster good relationships with those inside and outside the company, while achieving performance standards.

1. Hires, trains and effectively manages assigned Q.C. personnel, providing clear performance expectations and feedback, including formal performance evaluations.   
2. Reviews quality control test results and makes disposition decisions, in collaboration with other departments, for raw materials and finished products.
3. Develops ongoing procedures to utilize rework and old/obsolete materials in current production.
4. Monitors batch records for accuracy.
5. Prepares “Certificate of Analysis” documentation as required.
6. Maintains quality control laboratory equipment and instruments and ensures proper standardization and record keeping.
7. Maintains all records required by internal procedures and outside government agencies.
8. Maintains inventory of production retain samples.
9. Monitors production activities as they pertain to cGMPs, product quality, and food safety.
10. Audits labels for compliance to State and Federal regulations.
11. Trains employees on cGMPs, allergens and cleaning.
12. Assists in the testing of products, as necessary, including sensory evaluation.
13. Monitors and tracks effective cleaning practices of Sanitation and Production.
14. Aggressively works with Production and other departments to improve processes, practices and overall quality and food safety.
15. Performs monthly GMP, Glass and Hard Plastics Audits.
16. Works with auditors regarding audit criteria and tours/inspections of the facility.
17. Works with Technical Manager in the completion of Internal audits of the facilities’ programs.
18. Works cross-functionally with other departments to review/update relevant company policies and procedures.
19. Works with Technical Manager to investigate and resolve customer complaints due to product quality issues.
20. Maintains familiarity with company policies and procedures pertaining to quality control, food security, sanitation, cGMPs, HACCP/food safety, and employee supervision.
21. Must be HACCP Certified and able to serve as facility HACCP Coordinator.
22. Must be knowledgeable in SQF, and able to fulfill the responsibilities of our SQF Practitioner in their absence.
23. Practices regular, dependable, and punctual attendance at work.
24. Other duties as assigned by the Quality Director or the Director of Technical Services.

This description reflects the principal functions of the job for the purpose of job evaluation. It should not be construed as a detailed description of all requirements of the job, nor shall it be construed as giving exclusive responsibility for the function described.

1. B.A. or B.S. degree in a science discipline.
2. Familiarity with general lab analytical equipment and its use in testing food samples.   
3. Three to five years of experience in a supervisory capacity in the food industry, with a background in fruit and flavor processing a plus.
4. HACCP certified or ability to achieve this certification rapidly.
5. SQF Practitioner certified or the knowledge equivalent through training.
6. PCQI Certification or ability to achieve this certification rapidly. 
7. Must have visual acuity to evaluate sample appearance and use lab instruments.
8. Must demonstrate taste/aroma sense acuity.
9. Good English communication skills, written and verbal.
10. Must report to any AFF facility according to company need. Primary reports-to our San Fernando facility.