FSQA Analyst

Title: FSQA Analyst

Salary Range: $94,000 - $97,000 Annually

Status: Exempt

Location: Soledad, CA

Reports to: FSQA Manager

GENERAL DISCRIPTION / PRIMARY PURPOSE:

This role reports to the FSQA Manager and works on microbiological and food safety related issues while partnering with Production, Sanitation for development and implementation of policies & procedures. The position supports FSMA, the food safety plan development, validation for plants and collaborates with others on product and process design to ensure food safety.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS / DUTIES OF THE POSITION:

* Responsible for the implementation and execution of the Environmental Monitoring Program (EMP) including but not limited to documentation, sampling, training, and maintenance of associated software

* Responsible for trending and communication of microbiological testing of in-process and final product materials

* Conducts trend analysis of pre-operation inspections and regularly communicates to facility management team, Sanitation, Food Safety and Quality Director

* Assists in data collection and performs analysis, trending and reporting for quality improvement initiatives and shelf life retain studies.

* Participates in activities related to commissioning equipment including but not limited to documentation, sampling, and cross functional training

* Works cross-functionally to support sanitary design assessments for new equipment installations and modifications to existing equipment, partnering with the FSQA Manager to identify and address food safety and sanitary design risks, assists in execution of challenge studies and validation studies, including collaboration with external business partners

* Performs facility and GMP inspections to ensure best practices and sanitary principles are followed.

* Encourages safe working practices.

* Remains abreast of current science, regulatory principles, and emerging issues related to food safety.

* Follow all food safety requirements and GMP's as applicable for this position

* Responsible for inventory management of laboratory and Environmental Monitoring Program supplies to ensure adequate availability for required testing and sampling activities.

* Ensure the integrity and continued operations of the food safety system in the event of organizational or personnel changes within the company or associated facilities

* Responsible for all in-house micro sampling and testing along with analysis/trend data for continuous improvement.

* Serves as a backup to FSQA Supervisors to support continuity of daily FSQA operations and performs additional duties as assigned by manager.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES:

* 3-5 years of food safety and/or quality related experience is required.

* Good understanding of basic food microbiology.

* Working knowledge of food technology, processing, and microbiology.

* Strong understanding of GMPs and Federal/State food regulations.

* Strong computer/statistical skills, particularly related to data collection, manipulation and reporting.

* Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.

* Ability to communicate and work with diverse workforce and achieve cultural change in the face of potential resistance.

* Ability to work and adapt to a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

* Ability to travel independently.

* Work experience in team-oriented functions as well as individual contribution.

* Action-oriented with good project management skills.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

* Ability to maneuver around an array of equipment.

* Must be able to work in a cold environment.

* Will have some exposure to fumes and airborne particles.

WORK HOUR & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

* Flexibility to work both a variety of shifts and hours.

* Traveling to visit other facilities for auditing purposes may be required.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:

* Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science or related field is required.

EEO STATEMENT: We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability.