Quality Assurance Manager, Global Breeding Nursery

Driscoll's • Watsonville, CA

12d • $85,000 - $110,000

About The Position

The Quality Assurance Manager will play a critical role in ensuring the highest standards of plant quality across Driscoll's global breeding nursery network. This position is responsible for defining and updating plant specifications, implementing robust quality management systems, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The role involves developing data-driven processes to monitor plant performance before, during, and after shipment, conducting post-delivery evaluations, and coordinating corrective actions when issues arise. The manager will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including logistics and transportation, and lead committees to address quality challenges. Regular field visits and detailed reporting will be essential to maintain compliance and optimize quality outcomes. This position requires strong analytical skills, advanced knowledge of quality systems, and the ability to foster innovation and collaboration across global operations.

Requirements

• Degree in Agronomy, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field
• 5+ years' experience in quality control within the agriculture or horticulture sector
• Understanding and experience with: o Quality Management systems o Continuous Improvement o Data Science o Agriculture/Horticulture
• Data management experience required
• Bilingual English / Spanish required

Nice To Haves

• Experience with plant nurseries preferred
• Six Sigma certifications desired
• Advanced data science experience desired

Responsibilities

• Define and update plant specifications, establishing and updating technical specifications for each plant variety and crop
• Create a data collection system before, during, and after the shipment of plants. Conduct post-delivery follow-ups to assess the condition and performance of plants in customer environments
• Develop regular reports analyzing performance, identifying failures, and presenting corrective actions implemented
• Form and coordinate committees with appropriate personnel to investigate failures and develop solutions. Facilitate the implementation of corrective actions based on committee findings
• Work closely with the transportation team and other departments to ensure quality throughout the supply chain
• Conduct regular visits to cultivation fields to evaluate quality and compliance with specifications. Generate reports on visits, highlighting areas for improvement and necessary corrective actions
• Domestic and international travel required up to 30%
• Represent Driscoll's in an ethical and business-like professional manner in all interactions with growers, co-workers, suppliers, customers and the business community at large

Benefits

• comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, and disability coverage for positions working more than 30 hours per week
• 401(k) with employer match
• profit-sharing participation
• paid sick time
• paid vacation
• paid personal and family care leave
• free Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees