Quality Assurance Manager

Actalent - Wilson, NC

Full-time - Mid Level

Wilson, NC

10,001+ employees

Administrative and Support Services

About the position

The Quality Assurance Manager at Actalent will oversee and coordinate quality assurance processes in food processing facilities, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations while maintaining high standards of food safety and quality throughout production. This role involves developing policies, leading teams, and collaborating with various departments to drive continuous improvement in quality management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive quality assurance policies and procedures to ensure product safety, consistency, and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Lead implementation and improvement of quality management supporting digital platforms.
• Establish and maintain food safety and quality processes and plans throughout the cultivated meat production process, from cell culture to final product packaging.
• Conduct regular inspections and audits of the manufacturing facility to identify areas for improvement and ensure adherence to quality standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, research and development, and regulatory affairs, to address quality issues and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Serve as the key point of contact for regulatory agencies and external auditors during inspections and audits.
• Respond promptly to quality and safety-related issues, troubleshoot problems, and implement effective solutions.
• Collaborate with external vendors for specialized QA services and repairs.
• Stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes related to cultivated meat production, and incorporate best practices into quality assurance programs.
• Build and supervise a small team of QA technicians, providing day-to-day guidance and oversight.
• Lead factory food safety/HACCP team.
• Work closely with the QC Manager to ensure alignment of QA/QC policies and initiatives.
• Foster a culture of food safety, accountability, and continuous improvement within the QA department.
• Develop and oversee food safety training programs for production staff to ensure understanding and compliance with regulations and quality assurance protocols.
• Manage and maintain documentation related to quality assurance activities, including batch records, standard operating procedures, and regulatory filings.
• Monitor and analyze quality metrics and performance indicators to identify trends, anticipate potential issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Support the Director of Factory Quality in developing and managing the QA budget, ensuring cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in food science, biology, microbiology, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years experience in QA in food production, brewing, or pharmaceutical industry.
• Working knowledge of QC in food production and experience collaborating with QC teams.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations, including HACCP, FSMA, and GMPs.
• Current HACCP and PCQI certification.
• Experience with regulatory requirements for food processing facilities (e.g., FDA, USDA).
• Experience implementing SQF or FSSC22000 food safety management systems.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in meat processing, thermal processing, freezing and chilling, and fermentation is a plus.
• Experience implementing quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) is desirable.
• Prior experience in cultivated meat production or cell-based agriculture is a plus.
• Track record of leading and coaching personnel.
• Solid understanding of technical aspects in food manufacturing.
• Familiarity with codes, regulations, SQF, HAACP, and other relevant standards.