HACCP & Quality Assurance Coordinator

AeroFarms•Danville, VA

10d

About The Position

The HACCP & Quality Assurance Coordinator at AeroFarms plays a critical role in ensuring the highest standards of food safety and product quality within our advanced vertical farming environment. This role requires a meticulous approach to developing and maintaining HACCP systems, rigorous quality testing, and proactive problem-solving. The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for detail, strong organizational and communication skills, and a commitment to excellence in both food safety and quality assurance. This position is the back up for the FSQA Manager.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in food science, Microbiology, or a related field.
HACCP Certification is required; PCQI certification or ability to obtain is preferred.
Minimum 2-3 years of experience in food manufacturing or a similar environment.
Demonstrated technical knowledge in quality processes and systems (e.g., SOPs, SSOPs, GMPs).
Working knowledge of best practices in quality systems, food safety, and regulatory requirements.
Strong organizational, managerial, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
Attention to detail with a proactive approach to food safety and quality assurance.

Responsibilities

HACCP System Management Develop, implement, and maintain HACCP plans tailored to AeroFarms' vertical farming operations.
Conduct hazard analyses to identify potential food safety risks specific to aeroponic systems.
Establish and monitor critical control points (CCPs) and critical limits.
Design and oversee monitoring procedures and corrective actions for each CCP.
Implement verification activities to ensure the effectiveness of the HACCP system.
Meeting with and Running the Food Safety Team in absence of the FSQA Manager.
Quality Specification Development Collaborate in the creation of quality specifications, net weight programs, and retain programs.
Review and analyze system and product specifications to ensure alignment with AeroFarms' standards.
Testing and Analysis Execute manual and/or automated tests, analyze results, and document findings comprehensively.
Maintain environmental monitoring records and perform testing of incoming materials.
Proactively address and prevent quality issues, providing detailed reports on summaries, causes, and action plans.
Compliance and Documentation Ensure adherence to local, state, and federal food safety regulations, as well as industry standards for sustainable agriculture.
Maintain and update accurate records of all HACCP-related activities, inspection results, and quality checks.
Regularly review and revise the Food Safety Plan (HACCP Plan) and other relevant documentation.
Training and Communication Develop and implement training plans for HACCP, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), allergen control, and other essential programs.
Conduct training sessions for AeroFarms employees and facilitate communication between the QA team and management.
Attend food safety committee meetings and educate staff on food safety and quality programs.
Completing Weekly Focus Topics to improve knowledge on the farm.
Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement Monitor and assess HACCP and quality programs to ensure effective implementation.
Conduct internal audits, assist with external vendor audits, and work with the Quality Manager to enhance current practices.
Evaluate and improve food safety procedures, submitting recommendations for continuous improvement.
Testing Oversight Conduct shelf-life testing on existing products and packages.
Ensure timely and accurate testing of incoming materials, in-process production, and finished products.
Regulatory Compliance Ensure timely GMP audits and reporting.
Maintain a thorough understanding of regulatory requirements related to USDA and FDA, including FSMA.
Team Management Oversee lab employees and janitorial services, maintaining lab inventory and scheduling FSQA technicians as needed.
Manage the Master Sanitation Schedule (MSS) and related checklists.
Emergency Response and Recall Management Perform mock recalls, ensure the effectiveness of identification, labeling, and traceability systems.
Investigate food safety incidents and implement corrective actions.
Customer Test Result Management Upload customer test results into portals as required, ensuring accurate and timely data submission.
Annual FSQA Audit Preparations Prepare for annual FSQA audits, including conducting food defense scenarios, mock recalls, policy reviews, and updating documentation.
Departmental Excellence Contribute to maintaining the FSQA department to a best-in-class standard through continuous improvement initiatives.
Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in undertaking other tasks as assigned by FSQA leaders.
Flexibility in schedule, including availability for weekends and nights as needed.
Adaptability in a fast-paced and innovative environment.