Quality and Audit Analyst at Phusion Projects, LLC – Chicago, Illinois

PHUSION PROJECTS: Established in 2005, Phusion Projects is a global alcoholic beverage company with presence in over 40 countries, employing 250+ worldwide. Phusion Projects houses a portfolio of brands, including but not limited to, Four Loko, Four Loko PREGAME, Mamitas, Basic Vodka, Basico Tequila, and Earthquake.

CULTURE: Innovation and disruption are in the DNA at Phusion. We understand drinkers as category agnostic and we pursue flavor, brand, and functional benefits above all else. We’re always looking to push boundaries within our current product portfolio and partnerships, and that mindset flows through our company culture.

SUMMARY: The Quality and Audit Analyst will be responsible for ensuring consistent product quality, food safety, and regulatory compliance across all Phusion’s third-party co-manufacturers and supply chain partners. This role will work cross-functionally with product development, supply chain operations, finance and sales. They'll also partner with Phusion distributors and 3rd party supply chain partners to create a culture of safety, quality excellence, and compliance. This role supports proactive risk mitigation, drives continuous improvement, and ensures Phusion’s beverages meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and brand integrity. Some travel will be required in this position. They will report directly to the Global Technical Product Manager.

COMPENSATION:

The base pay range for this role is $80,000 - $90,000 per year.

The range listed is dependent on job-related, non-discriminatory factors such as experience, education, and skills. This position is also eligible for bonus awards.

You may be eligible for the following competitive benefits: medical, dental, vision, life, accident & disability, parental leave, employee assistance program, commuter & transit, paid holidays, paid time off, and 401(k).

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Enforce product standards, raw material and packaging specifications, process standards, and formula compliance.
• Verify that all released products meet safety, compliance, and regulatory requirements (TTB, FDA, GMP, etc.).
• Review and approve Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for raw materials.
• Conduct and review GMP audits, supplier audits, and internal process audits to identify improvement opportunities and prevent non-conformances.
• Support and document mock recalls, aged-finished goods testing, and shelf-life extension testing.
• Qualify third-party suppliers and co-packers for raw materials, packaging, and finished goods production.
• Manage supplier and co-packer Corrective Action and Preventative Action (CAPA) programs.
• Collaborate with supply chain partners and distributors to investigate quality issues and develop corrective actions.
• Collect and send out material and product samples for analytical, sensory, and micro testing to ensure quality control.
• Maintain and organize the product retain library for active SKUs packaging and finished goods.
• Develop and implement proactive quality strategies and programs to enhance compliance with GMP and other regulatory requirements.
• Review and update Formula Data Sheets and product specifications.
• Support internal reporting for leadership and cross-functional teams with clear data-driven insights.
• Support the sourcing, development and implementation of quality management processes and systems
• Partner with product development and supply chain to support product development, launches, scale-ups, and reformulations.
• Provide input on quality requirements during product development and commercialization.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 3-5 years of quality systems experience in the food or beverage space required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, Engineering or related field required.
• Knowledge and experience with relevant GMP, HACCP and GFSI Standards such as SQF or BRC.
• Experience managing supplier and co-packer quality programs.
• Sensory Test Administrating experience.
• Laboratory Analytical testing experience.
• PCQI Training and Certification is a plus.
• Strong experience with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Quality management software and data reporting tools preferred.

COMPETENCIES:

• Diversity - Demonstrates knowledge of EEO policy; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; Educates others on the value of diversity; Promotes a harassment-free environment; Builds a diverse workforce.
• Ethics - Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically; Upholds organizational values.
• Adaptability - Adapts to changes in the work environment; Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.
• Customer Service - Manages difficult or emotional customer situations; Responds promptly to customer needs; Solicits customer feedback to improve service; Responds to requests for service and assistance; Meets commitments.
• Motivation - Sets and achieves challenging goals; Demonstrates persistence and overcomes obstacles; Measures self against standard of excellence; Takes calculated risks to accomplish goals.
• Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
• Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments.

Phusion Projects is an equal opportunity employer. Phusion recruits, employs, trains, compensates and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical ability, age, veteran status and other protected status, as required by applicable law.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.