Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of heightened awareness around health and safety, the role of a Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager has become pivotal.

With every meal prepared and every product packaged, the need for proficient individuals who can oversee, enhance, and secure our food safety measures intensifies.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the profile of the ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the finer details of food safety and quality assurance,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Food Safety Quality Assurance Managers are responsible for overseeing the systems that ensure food products are safe and meet quality standards.

They play a pivotal role in maintaining food safety regulations and standards within an organization.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and implement quality assurance policies and procedures
• Plan, conduct, and monitor testing and inspection of food products to ensure finished product quality
• Document internal audits and other quality assurance activities
• Investigate customer complaints and non-conformance issues
• Collect and compile statistical quality data
• Analyze data to identify areas for improvement in the quality system
• Develop, recommend and monitor corrective and preventive actions
• Prepare reports to communicate outcomes of quality activities
• Identify training needs and organize training interventions to meet quality standards
• Coordinate and support on-site audits conducted by external providers
• Evaluate audit findings and implement appropriate corrective actions
• Manage risk assessment within the department
• Responsible for document management systems
• Assure ongoing compliance with quality and industry regulatory requirements

 

Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager to oversee our quality control systems and ensure the safety and quality of our food products.

Responsibilities include implementing quality control procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and laws, conducting audits, and facilitating training for staff.

Our ideal candidate has a solid background in food science, understands the principles of food safety, and is knowledgeable about industry-related quality standards and regulations.

The goal of the Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager is to ensure our products meet the highest quality standards, ensuring customer satisfaction and maintaining the reputation of our brand.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement quality control procedures and safety standards
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal food safety regulations
• Conduct internal audits and manage third-party audits
• Collaborate with operations to rectify any non-compliance issues
• Train employees on food safety and hygiene standards
• Monitor and document quality reports, statistical reviews, and relevant documentation
• Investigate and manage customer complaints related to quality
• Develop strategies to improve quality control and safety
• Review and update existing policies and procedures

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager or similar role
• Knowledge of food safety laws and regulations
• Proficiency in quality control software programs
• Experience with audits and certification processes
• Strong communication and leadership skills
• Detail-oriented and organized
• BSc degree in Food Science, Microbiology or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager
• Work Environment: This role typically works in a food processing facility environment, some travel may be required for audits or training sessions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Quality Assurance or Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager Do?

Food Safety Quality Assurance Managers play an essential role in the food production industry to ensure that food products meet set standards of quality, safety, and legality.

They work within the processing environment, making sure that production lines operate efficiently, product quality is maintained, and workplace safety rules are adhered to.

Their job is to develop and implement quality assurance policies and procedures.

They interpret and comply with quality assurance standards, conduct regular audits, and recommend new or improvements to existing methods to improve productivity, quality, and efficiency of operations.

They also investigate and set standards for safety and health, carrying out inspections and checks on systems and performance, and taking necessary action to prevent food contamination.

Additionally, they handle customer complaints and non-conformance processes, manage and mentor the quality assurance team, and liaise with internal departments, suppliers, and regulators to ensure legal obligations are met.

Their role also extends to the review and maintenance of food safety documents and records to ensure they are up-to-date and compliant with food safety regulations and standards.

They may also coordinate with external quality assurance auditors and ensure the execution of corrective action and compliance with customers’ specifications.

Food Safety Quality Assurance Managers are pivotal in the development, revision, and implementation of food safety procedures and policies to ensure the safest and highest quality of food production.

 

Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager Qualifications and Skills

A Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager should have a variety of technical skills, management skills, and industry knowledge, such as:

• Comprehensive knowledge of food safety standards and regulations to ensure that all products meet the required health and safety requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and resolve any issues relating to the quality and safety of food products.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with employees, management, and regulatory authorities, and to provide clear instructions and feedback.
• Leadership and management skills to lead quality assurance teams, manage staff performance, and oversee training and development initiatives.
• Detail-oriented nature to meticulously monitor and review processes, make detailed observations, and ensure record-keeping is accurate and up-to-date.
• Experience in conducting internal audits to verify that systems and procedures are functioning as expected.
• Capability to develop and implement quality assurance policies and procedures, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of various quality testing methods and the ability to implement them as needed.
• Ability to interpret and analyze data and use this information to improve the quality and safety of food products.

 

Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager Experience Requirements

Food Safety Quality Assurance Managers generally have a minimum of 5 years of experience in food safety and quality assurance roles.

This experience can be garnered through roles such as Food Safety Specialist, Quality Assurance Analyst, or Quality Control Supervisor in food processing or manufacturing industries.

Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field.

Relevant certifications in food safety and quality assurance, such as the Certified Food Safety Professional or Certified Quality Auditor, will significantly enhance the professional credentials of the candidate.

An ideal candidate would also have hands-on experience in managing teams and overseeing food safety programs, as well as a deep understanding of federal and state food safety regulations.

Those with more than 7 to 10 years of experience may have held senior roles within the industry, demonstrating their capability in strategic planning, regulatory compliance, and crisis management.

Candidates aspiring to this role should also have experience with safety and quality assurance technologies, as well as process improvements and risk management.

This could be from previous roles where they have been responsible for implementing and maintaining food safety systems, conducting hazard analysis, and developing corrective actions.

Lastly, a Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager must have excellent communication skills, as this role often includes training staff on food safety protocols, liaising with regulatory authorities, and dealing with suppliers and customers on food safety and quality assurance matters.

 

Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager Education and Training Requirements

A Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager typically holds a bachelor’s degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field.

They should have a solid understanding of food processing and food safety practices, gained through coursework and practical experiences during their degree program.

Many employers prefer candidates who have a master’s degree or significant work experience in quality assurance, food safety, or a related area.

A background in HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points), GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and other food safety standards and regulations is essential.

Certifications in food safety, such as the Certified Food Safety Professional (CFSP) or Certified HACCP Auditor, can provide additional qualifications and demonstrate a commitment to professional development.

In addition to formal education, on-the-job training is important for understanding the specific processes, systems, and standards of a particular food production environment.

Moreover, skills like attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and leadership are also crucial in this role.

 

Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager is $75,487 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can greatly vary based on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, educational background, the size of the employing company, and the geographical location.

 

Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager need?

Food Safety Quality Assurance Managers should have a keen eye for detail to identify potential safety hazards, a strong understanding of safety and sanitation regulations, and excellent organizational skills to manage and keep track of quality assurance programs.

They should also have strong leadership and communication skills to effectively manage their teams and relay important information about safety protocols and standards.

 

Do Food Safety Quality Assurance Managers need a degree?

While not always required, most Food Safety Quality Assurance Managers do have a degree in a field related to food science, microbiology, or a similar field.

Some employers may also require certifications such as a Certified Quality Auditor or Certified Quality Engineer.

 

What should you look for in a Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager resume?

Look for a strong background in food science or a related field, as well as experience in a food production environment.

Certifications related to quality assurance or food safety can be a plus.

The resume should also show strong leadership skills and a track record of implementing successful quality assurance programs.

 

What qualities make a good Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager?

A good Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager is meticulous, organized, and has a deep understanding of food safety regulations.

They should be able to handle stressful situations and make important decisions quickly.

Excellent communication and leadership skills are also important, as they often have to guide and train staff on safety protocols.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager?

Hiring a Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager can be challenging due to the specific skill set required for the job.

Finding candidates with the right blend of technical knowledge, experience in food production environments, and leadership abilities can be tough.

Offering a competitive salary and fostering a positive work environment can help attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve sliced open the truth about what it really means to be a Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager.

Surprised?

It’s not just about monitoring food processes.

It’s about safeguarding public health, one quality check at a time.

With our handy Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step into the role.

But why halt your journey here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every quality check is a step towards a safer food system.

Let’s create that safe future. Together.

How to Become a Food Safety Quality Assurance Manager (Complete Guide)

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