Plant Quality Manager

Land O'Lakes•Websterville, VT

1d•$93,360 - $140,040

About The Position

The Plant Quality Manager leads food safety, quality, regulatory compliance, laboratory operations, and audit processes for Vermont Creamery. The role ensures adherence to specifications, quality management system (QMS) and BRCGS standards, and state and federal requirements. The manager partners with site leadership and facility and corporate quality teams to drive continuous improvement in food safety, quality, employee safety, compliance, and cost. The position also supports key operational programs and champions a strong culture of food safety and quality while upholding Vermont Creamery’s values and vision. The manager has direct supervisory responsibility for the QA Coordinator, Sanitation Specialist, and QA Staff.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Biology, Dairy Technology, or a related field is preferred.
At least 3 years of hands-on plant experience in food or pharmaceutical operations.
At least 1 year of people-leadership or supervisory experience.
GFSI certification; BRCGS certification is preferred.
HACCP and PCQI certifications, which must be maintained.
Ability to interact with regulatory personnel, including practical audit experience.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal skills.
Collaborative management style that builds an engaged, motivated, high-performing team.

Nice To Haves

BRCGS certification.
Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Biology, Dairy Technology, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Direct, train, and advise personnel in test procedures and ensure compliance with quality system requirements to deliver safe, quality food products.
Investigate and respond to quality assurance-related consumer complaints.
Design, oversee, update, and review the HACCP plan to meet regulatory and BRCGS requirements.
Lead coordination of the QMS and BRCGS certification and maintenance process.
Research and recommend equipment, processes, and technology to improve control of raw materials, in-process goods, and finished goods in line with industry best practices.
Oversee internal laboratory testing; develop equipment operating SOPs and maintain records.
Maintain calibration programs for laboratory equipment, weighing scales, vats and fermenters, temperature controllers, gauges, and other equipment.
Oversee external laboratory testing and reports as required by BRCGS and the QMS quality system.
Develop and provide quality assurance KPIs, scorecards, and reports.
Provide food safety and quality technical support to cross-functional staff and for new projects and products.
Directly supervise the QA Coordinator, Sanitation Specialist, and QA Staff.