FSQ Specialist - SQA

Job Summary:

The Food Safety & Quality (FSQ) Specialist as part of the Supplier Quality Assurance (SQA) team is responsible for supplier quality performance and risk mitigation related to supplier food safety and quality. The successful candidate will maintain strong partnerships with key internal and external stakeholders to uphold SunOpta's quality standards and improve our processes. Additionally, this position conducts supplier audits and meetings to identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities related to food safety and quality. The FSQ Specialist will be the main point of contact when supplier non-conformances arise to work with the supplier on resolution. This is a critical role within the SQA team that requires an individual who is dedicated to swift problem solving while maintaining strong partnerships.

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Conduct supplier site audits/visits with particular emphasis on new and high-risk suppliers.
• Write and deliver audit reports to the supplier and internally upon completion of the audit.
• Manage the supplier non-conformance communication and resolution with suppliers in a timely manner, in collaboration with Procurement, Manufacturing Quality, and Finance.
• Manage the supplier performance process related to food safety and quality risk.
• Assist supplier quality team to ensure the programs meet all FDA, USDA, customers', and SunOpta's requirements.
• Develop and deliver new supplier quality procedures and training, as needed.
• Maintain Supplier Quality KPIs.
• Follow company GMP's (good manufacturing practices), safety procedures and all other quality processes.
• All other duties, as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Microbiology, Food Science, Biology, or related technical field.
• Five years food industry and/or food safety & quality experience.
• Experience conducting audits.

Preferred Qualifications:

• PCQI certification.
• SQF certification.
• Experience with specification and quality management systems (i.e. DevEx, TraceGains, Intelex, FoodLogiQ, etc.).

Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills and demonstrated experience working with cross-functional teams and suppliers.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and quality management software.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations, quality systems (HACCP, SQF, BRC), and industry standards.
• Accurate and proficient with data maintenance and data entry.
• Self-directed, intellectually curious, and results driven.

Additional Considerations:

• 30-40% travel to supplier manufacturing sites and SunOpta manufacturing sites.
• The role will be located at the SunOpta Corporate Office in Eden Prairie, MN.
• Relocation or international remote working arrangements (outside of the US) will not be considered.

Featured benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid Family leave
• Paid maternity leave
• 401(k) with Match
• Voluntary Life, Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital indemnity
• Paid Holidays
• Tuition assistance
• Short-term and Long-term Disability insurance

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

EOE M/W/VET/DISABLED