Job Description
Job Description
Job Title: Quality Control Manager / SQF Practitioner
Location: Paterson, NJ
Type: Full-Time | On-Site
About the Role:
We’re looking for a passionate, hands-on Quality Control Manager with SQF Practitioner certification to lead all quality assurance and food safety efforts at our Clifton, NJ facility. In this role, you’ll ensure every product that leaves our doors meets the highest standards of safety, consistency, and what we call “the perfect pop”—our gold standard for excellence rooted in custom recipes, craftsmanship, and care.
This is a critical leadership position for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, has a deep understanding of food manufacturing, and believes in empowering others to take ownership of quality.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead all food safety and quality programs, including SQF, HACCP, GMP, FSMA, and internal QA/QC protocols.
Serve as the on-site SQF Practitioner, ensuring full compliance and maintaining documentation.
Oversee and mentor the QA/QC team, promoting a culture of pride, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Conduct daily product and process inspections to monitor for consistency in seasoning coverage, size, and quality.
Maintain and manage all records for traceability, lot codes, packaging verification, microbiological testing, and audit readiness.
Lead internal, third-party, and regulatory audits (FDA, USDA, etc.).
Investigate quality complaints and non-conformances, lead root cause analysis and implement CAPAs.
Collaborate cross-functionally with Production, R&D, and Supply Chain to drive systemic improvements.
Monitor incoming raw materials and finished products to ensure they meet established specs.
Maintain and update SOPs, training programs, and the Food Safety & Quality Manual.
Manage shelf-life testing, environmental monitoring, allergen controls, and sanitation verification.
Ensure compliance with federal labeling standards (NF labeling knowledge is a plus).
Publish and maintain weekly QA technician audit and rotation schedules.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field.
Certified SQF Practitioner (required).
HACCP Certification (required).
Minimum 5 years of food QA/QC experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
Strong knowledge of food safety regulations, quality systems, and industry certifications.
Comfortable with documentation systems and software (Microsoft Office; NetSuite a plus).
Bilingual in English and Spanish strongly preferred.
Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
Physical Requirements & Work Environment:
Ability to walk, stand, bend, and use hands/fingers consistently throughout the shift.
Must be able to lift up to 60 lbs and work in environments with varying temperatures, noise levels, and exposure to allergens, dust, or cleaning chemicals.
Use of PPE such as gloves, safety goggles, or lab coats as required.
Ability to access elevated platforms or confined spaces if needed.
Why Join Us?
We’re more than just a food manufacturing facility—we’re a tight-knit team that believes in doing things the right way. You’ll have the chance to make a real impact, build a strong team culture, and take pride in every product we send out the door.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
401(k)
Paid time off
Language:
Spanish (Required)
Ability to Commute:
Clifton, NJ 07011 (Required)
Work Location: In person