Quality Assurance Specialist at Cooke Aquaculture Inc. – Blacks Harbour, New Brunswick

Cooke is a global seafood company with operations in North America, Europe, South America and Australia. Our company’s success is driven by our dynamic, highly skilled, and innovative management team, supported by dedicated employees who live in coastal communities and contribute to the local area’s economy and sense of community.

True North Salmon Co. Ltd. is a leading name in the seafood industry, renowned for our commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation. We pride ourselves on processing the finest seafood products for local and international markets. We are seeking an experienced and dynamic QA Specialist to join our dedicated team in Blacks Harbour, New Brunswick, and contribute to our continued success.

The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and analytical Quality Assurance Specialist to join our team in Blacks Harbour, New Brunswick. Reporting to the Regional QA Manager, this role is critical to food safety and quality. The Quality Assurance Specialist position requires a high degree of specialized expertise and skill in maintaining established standards of safety, quality, and accuracy. As a leader you must be able to exercise the necessary authority to assure policies and procedures are followed and time frames are met.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collect, analyze, and interpret Quality data to identify trends, measure performance, and inform decision-making.
• Prepare regular reports on Quality performance, highlighting successes, challenges, and proposed solutions.
• Utilize data visualization tools to present complex information clearly and concisely to various stakeholders.
• Manages quality and food safety programs in accordance with organization’s objectives.
• Ensures product and documentation requirements are compliant for regulatory (FDA, State Health Departments, USDC, CFIA), customers, and third parties.
• Research and validate suppliers using our trace gains platform.
• Complete all supplier risk assessments for all products being received.
• Maintain product and packaging specifications database.
• Maintain Food Safety Quality Management System (FSQMS) database.
• Evaluating risk assessments and identifying gaps.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including Production, Quality Assurance, Maintenance, and Supply Chain, to achieve optimization goals.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence within the department.
• Ensure all initiatives adhere to company safety policies and all relevant food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, CFIA).

Expectations:

• Proven Impact: The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate a track record of identifying and implementing measurable improvements.
• Analytical Acumen: A strong ability to analyze complex data, draw meaningful conclusions, and translate insights into actionable strategies.
• Problem-Solving Skills: An innovative and proactive approach to identifying and solving Quality challenges.
• Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, from conception to implementation, on time and within budget.
• Leadership & Influence: Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively with all levels of the organization, from front-line employees to senior management.
• Adaptability: Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic processing environment with changing priorities.
• Results-Oriented: A relentless focus on achieving tangible results and driving continuous improvement.
• Industry Knowledge (Preferred): Familiarity with fish processing operations, food manufacturing, or related industries is a significant asset.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from four-year college or university; or one to two years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Knowledge or certification of USFDA's Seafood HACCP Guidelines.
• Working experience with quality assurance and food safety programs, including third party standards such as GFSI (BRC and BAP).
• Travel up to 50% of time to manufacturing locations.
• Outstanding organizational skills and the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in diverse groups and ability to influence others.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Spanish is a plus.
• Must have excellent computer skills including MS Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint and Power BI.
• Excellent skills working in databases.

Working Conditions:

• This position will primarily be based in the True North Salmon office at 874 Main street Blacks Harbour, New Brunswick.
• This role may require occasional work in a cold and/or wet environment.
• Some flexibility in hours may be required to observe various shifts and production cycles.
• Some travel may be required.

Join our team and enjoy the benefits of full-time year-round employment with competitive rates and a comprehensive benefits package tailored to support your well-being and career growth.

Benefits Package:

• Health Benefits: Includes coverage for dental, vision, and extended medical care.
• Insurance: Life and disability insurance provided for financial security.
• Support Services: Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Financial Planning: Opportunity for RRSP matching to support your retirement savings.
• Time Off: Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave for work-life balance.
• Wellness: Wellness programs and access to on-site gym facilities (available in some locations).
• Career Development: Professional growth opportunities and avenues for advancement.
• Perks: Employee discounts on company products or services.
• Convenience: On-site parking or parking allowance.

If you're looking to join a supportive team environment with opportunities for personal and professional development, apply now and become part of our dynamic team.

The Why

Why Cooke? Simple - because we are a company that rewards initiative, resourcefulness, and work ethic. We will champion your growth and provide you with the platform to create your path, your career, and your future.

NOTE: The recruiter is reviewing and interviewing eligible applicants for this position as they are received. If you are interested in this posting, you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.