Food Safety Quality Assurance Specialist

GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PRIMARY PURPOSE:

Coordinate, implement and audit FSQA programs for Dole North America. Perform audits, generate reports and follow up as required, for all sourcing locations, vendors & suppliers. Conduct initial qualification of coolers, suppliers and/or co-pack operations, working collaboratively with both internal and external FSQA teams. Analyze and make recommendations for further improvements, including leveraging new technology, to mitigate hazards in all aspects of the business. Assess internal and external program compliance against both regulatory requirements and Dole standards/expectations. Assist in development or expansion of training materials, as appropriate, for internal and external business partners. Ensure compliance with applicable elements of Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Engage in process innovation activities.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS/DUTIES OF THE POSITION:

* Ensure that all FSQA programs and procedures are being implemented correctly.

* Perform G.M.P. audits. Follow all FSQA requirements, as applicable to this position.

* In conjunction with the cooler operations personnel, provide training on FSQA practices, assist in development of FSQA programs.

* Process large volumes of data or information and communicate recommendations for further improvement to mitigate FSQA risks.

* Effectively communicate scientific and technical information to both technical and non-technical personnel.

* Have knowledge of, and adhere to FSMA regulations and guidelines associated with all supply chain elements.

* Audit and maintain FSQA business relationships with external cooling operations and packinghouses.

* Responsible for training and day-to-day oversight of Quality Technicians.

* Execute projects that meet the technical and business objectives of Dole Food Company.

* In conjunction with cooler operations, participate in quality inspections.

* Travel to various regions, including domestic and international locations.

* Create and execute training for cooler food safety programs

* Other duties as assigned.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES:

* 2 -3 years in agriculture/FSQA related experience, with 1 year of auditing experience. Experience in produce operations is desirable.

* 1 year of supervisory experience required.

* Strong organizational, interpersonal and communication skills

* Must be flexible, even-tempered, persuasive and a good mediator. Able to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills required, ability to conduct food safety audits, communicate effectively with technical and non-technical personnel, knowledge of food microbiology,

* Knowledge of basic sanitation techniques and procedures.

* Knowledge of related Federal and State regulations.

* Competency in computer word processing (MS Word), Spreadsheet (Excel) and Database Software (Access) required.

* Bi-lingual, bi-literate Spanish/English is preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to lift up to 10-25 pounds, identify and distinguish colors, work in extreme cold some of the time in a cooler environment and ability to work in outside elements.

WORK HOUR & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• Travel as needed, domestically and internationally.
• Flexibility with schedule as needed.
• Flexibility with schedule as needed with the ability to work beyond normal business hours, weekends, rotating shifts preferred/required.

EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION:

Bachelor's degree in agriculture, Food Science, Microbiology, Plant Science, Postharvest Physiology or related field is preferred.

PAY RATE:

• $75,000 - $85,0000 Annually

EEO STATEMENT: We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability.