Quality Control Lab Supervisor at Oregon Ice Cream LLC – Eugene, Oregon

Job Title: Quality Assurance Lab Supervisor

Department: Quality Assurance & Technical Services

Reports To: Food Safety & Quality Manager

FLSA Status: Exempt

Summary

The Quality Assurance Lab Supervisor is responsible for the overall management and performance of the QA Laboratory, ensuring compliance with food safety and quality standards. This role provides direct supervision of QA Lab staff, oversees laboratory operations, and exercises independent judgment in product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance decisions

Key Responsibilities

• Directly supervise QA Lab Technicians, including scheduling, performance management, coaching, and disciplinary actions
• Provide input and recommendations on hiring, promotions, and terminations
• Oversee daily QA laboratory operations to ensure efficiency, accuracy, and compliance
• Establish departmental priorities, goals, and performance standards
• Ensure compliance with food safety, regulatory, and quality requirements (FDA, USDA, FSMA, SQF)
• Oversee product hold and release decisions based on quality standards and COA evaluations
• Review and interpret laboratory data, trends, and environmental monitoring results
• Exercise independent judgment in resolving non-conformance issues and implementing corrective actions
• Lead internal audits and support third-party and regulatory audits
• Ensure proper documentation, reporting, and communication of laboratory results
• Manage lab inventory, equipment, and resource allocation
• Support and enforce plant-wide food safety and GMP programs
• Train and develop team members to ensure technical competency and regulatory compliance
• Collaborate cross-functionally with production, operations, and leadership teams to drive continuous improvement
• Communicate quality and food safety risks, trends, and recommendations to leadership

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or a related field
• 2+ years of experience in quality systems within food manufacturing
• Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience preferred
• Strong analytical and data interpretation skills
• Proficiency in Excel, Power BI, or food safety/quality systems software
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in dairy or frozen dessert manufacturing
• Knowledge of SQF, FSMA, and other applicable food safety regulations
• Certifications such as PCQI, HACCP, or SQF Practitioner

Physical Requirements

• Sitting: Extended periods (up to 4+ hours)
• Standing: Extended periods (up to 4+ hours)
• Walking: Frequent
• Bending/Twisting: Occasional
• Lifting: Up to 30 lbs. frequently
• Carrying: Up to 50 lbs. occasionally (up to 100 ft.)
• Ability to work in cold environments (coolers and freezers)

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Disclaimer

Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time. This position description is intended to outline the primary duties, qualifications, and scope of the role and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. Employees are expected to contribute to the overall success of the organization and may be required to perform additional duties as needed.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Oregon Ice Cream is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.