QA FOOD SAFETY LEAD OPERATOR in Dumas, Texas at Panhandle Products LLC

About the Role:

The QA Food Safety Lead Operator plays a critical role in ensuring that all food products meet the highest standards of safety and quality before reaching consumers. This position is responsible for leading and coordinating quality assurance activities on the production floor, implementing food safety protocols, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. The Lead Operator will oversee routine inspections, monitor critical control points, and manage documentation to maintain traceability and accountability. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including production, sanitation, and quality control, is essential to identify and resolve potential safety issues proactively. Ultimately, this role ensures that the company consistently delivers safe, high-quality food products that protect consumer health and uphold the company’s reputation.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree or higher in food science, microbiology, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in food safety, quality assurance, or a related role within a food manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations, including FDA, USDA, and FSMA requirements.
• Experience with HACCP, GMP, and SQF or BRC certification standards.
• Proficiency in conducting audits, inspections, and maintaining detailed documentation.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification as a HACCP Coordinator or Food Safety Auditor.
• Experience leading teams or managing food safety programs in a supervisory capacity.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Advanced training in microbiological testing and contamination control.
• Proficiency with quality management software and data analysis tools.

Responsibilities:

• Lead daily food safety and quality assurance operations on the production line to ensure compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct regular inspections and audits of production processes, equipment, and finished products to identify and address potential hazards.
• Monitor and document critical control points (CCPs) and corrective actions in accordance with HACCP and other food safety programs.
• Train and mentor production staff on food safety best practices, hygiene standards, and quality control procedures.
• Collaborate with quality assurance, sanitation, and production teams to investigate and resolve non-conformances and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills:

The QA Food Safety Lead Operator utilizes their expertise in food safety regulations and quality assurance protocols daily to ensure compliance and product integrity. Strong observational and analytical skills are essential for identifying potential hazards and implementing corrective actions promptly. Effective communication and leadership skills are used to train and guide production staff, fostering a culture of safety and quality. The ability to manage detailed documentation and audit records ensures traceability and regulatory compliance. Additionally, problem-solving skills and familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies help drive enhancements in food safety processes and operational efficiency.