Position Title: Food Safety & Quality Assurance Assistant Manager

Job Type: Full Time, Direct Hire

Location: Royal City, WA

Schedule: 40 hours per week, 8-hour shifts; must have flexibility to work days, nights, and weekends. Final schedule to be determined.

Salary Range: $56,000 - $76,000 depending on experience + eligible for overtime + up to 5% annual bonus

About Us:

We are a premier fruit production company committed to providing the highest quality fruits, specializing in apples, pears, and cherries. Located in the heart of Washington's fertile fruit-growing region, we focus on sustainable farming practices and are dedicated to producing delicious, fresh fruit that meets the highest standards. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and community has made us a leader in the industry.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced FSQA Assistant Manager to ensure compliance with Quality and Food Safety standards across dryer, packaging, and harvest-specific production processes. This hands-on role involves overseeing and coordinating the daily activities of Quality Assurance (QA) Technicians, providing leadership and training, and ensuring efficient and safe operations. The Quality Assistant Manager supports the Quality Manager and serves as a key resource for production team members, focusing on continuous improvement, safety, and compliance.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in food science, microbiology, food engineering, or a related field with 2+ years of supervisory experience, OR equivalent combination of education and lab experience.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment operation, and safety protocols.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English; Spanish bilingual ability preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with ERP/CRM systems preferred.
• Ability to obtain and maintain forklift certification.

Responsibilities:

• Quality Oversight: Schedule and manage QA Technicians, oversee CCP checks, Pre-Op processes, Food Safety meetings, truck inspections, and label approvals. Maintain FM and Hold logs, prepare Lot Trace-back, and support audits with corrective actions.
• Quality Control: Monitor quality checks, ensure SOP compliance, address deviations, and validate line samples.
• Team Leadership: Train and support QA Technicians on SOPs and documentation practices. Assist with onboarding and provide ongoing guidance to team members.
• Safety and Compliance: Maintain a safe workplace by enforcing GMPs, PPE use, and safety protocols. Conduct safety audits and address hazards promptly.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify and implement process enhancements, collaborating with supervisors and encouraging team engagement in efficiency initiatives.
• Documentation and Reporting: Ensure timely, accurate reporting of production data, quality checks, and incidents while communicating issues to the Quality Manager.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary within the range of $56,000 - $76,000 annually, with eligibility for overtime.
• Up to 5% annual bonus.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth within the company.