QA Manager I

Pilgrim's • Lafayette, GA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Pilgrim’s is seeking a Quality Assurance Manager for its new startup facility in LaFayette, Georgia. The role is accountable for implementing and verifying the facility’s adherence to Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation Food Safety and Quality Assurance (FSQA) programs. The manager leads the facility’s food safety and quality culture through supervisors and team members, establishing and maintaining quality assurance standards, procedures, and controls. The position works directly with corporate and plant management teams.

The role requires a flexible schedule, including some weekends and varying shifts, and travel of up to 10% annually, occasionally involving overnight stays of 1–4 days. The manager works independently while supporting FSQA programs and company values, promotes a collaborative work environment, safely navigates production areas and equipment, and proactively identifies and addresses safety and food safety risks.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science or a similar field, or five years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and training.
• Supervisory experience is required; experience in poultry processing or slaughter operations is preferred.
• Understanding of USDA and OSHA regulations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Strong written and verbal communication and leadership skills.
• Ability to quickly learn customer quality programs and adapt to change.
• Solid math and analytical abilities for problem-solving and decision-making.
• Reliable and ethical, with a strong work ethic and punctuality.
• Team-oriented and self-motivated, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds or more.
• Ability to travel up to 10% annually, including occasional overnight stays of 1–4 days per trip.
• Flexible schedule, including some weekends and varying shifts, to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently while upholding company values and supporting FSQA programs.
• Ability to maintain a positive, collaborative work environment through effective communication and teamwork.
• Comfort navigating production areas and equipment safely and efficiently.

Nice To Haves

• GFSI training, specifically BRC.
• SAP experience.
• Bilingual English/Spanish.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage food safety and quality programs to ensure consistent production standards and regulatory compliance.
• Develop and implement procedures and training aligned with corporate FSQA policies, including root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Use statistical analysis and budgeting techniques to drive continuous improvement and reduce quality-operation costs.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external partners to resolve customer complaints and maintain strong relationships.
• Oversee customer, third-party, and regulatory audits and inspections, ensuring readiness and compliance.
• Coach and develop FSQA team members, fostering accountability and a culture of safety and quality excellence.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Proactively identify and address safety and food safety risks, promoting safe practices throughout the facility.

Benefits

• Vision, medical, and dental coverage begin after 60 days of employment.
• Paid sick leave, vacation, company-observed holidays, or other statutorily required paid leave.
• 401(k) with company match beginning after the first year of service, subject to the company vesting schedule.
• Eligible to participate in the Company’s annual bonus plan, subject to the incentive program’s standard terms and conditions.
• Continuous learning opportunities and career-growth programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager