Food Quality Analyst

Location: On-Site at our factory in New Century, KS

About the Role

We are seeking a Quality Analyst to join our manufacturing team and help ensure the highest standards of product quality, food safety, and regulatory compliance. This role is responsible for conducting analytical, sensory, microbiological, and packaging evaluations of products and materials throughout the manufacturing process.

The Quality Analyst partners closely with Production and Operations teams to monitor product specifications, support troubleshooting activities, investigate quality issues, implement corrective actions, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. This position plays a critical role in maintaining compliance with food safety systems, quality standards, and customer requirements.

What You'll Do

Quality & Food Safety

• Conduct analytical and sensory evaluations of raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods.
• Monitor product specifications, including moisture, salt, pH, sorbate levels, appearance, and sensory attributes.
• Communicate quality findings and recommend corrective actions to support product compliance.
• Support site Food Safety programs and maintain a working knowledge of HACCP and GMP requirements.
• Assist with quality investigations, root cause analysis, and corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Participate in site quality improvement initiatives and continuous improvement projects.

Laboratory Operations

• Perform routine laboratory testing according to established procedures and specifications.
• Conduct microbiological sampling and analysis on intermediate and finished products using approved methods.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and support calibration programs.
• Review, update, and maintain laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure laboratory activities are conducted in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).

Packaging & Process Monitoring

• Inspect packaging materials and finished products to verify compliance with quality standards.
• Monitor package appearance, fill weights, code dates, and other critical quality parameters.
• Verify compliance with weight control standards and support use of the FreeWeigh system.
• Communicate deviations and assist Production teams in resolving quality issues.

Audits, Documentation & Compliance

• Conduct GMP inspections and internal quality audits.
• Maintain accurate and timely quality documentation, records, and reports.
• Support document control activities and ensure proper record retention.
• Utilize Microsoft Office and other software systems for data entry, analysis, and reporting.
• Assist with quality training programs related to GMPs, quality systems, and operating procedures.

About You

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a food manufacturing quality, laboratory, or food safety environment.
• Knowledge of food safety systems, HACCP principles, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Experience performing analytical testing and interpreting results.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within cross-functional teams.

Preferred

• Experience with microbiological testing techniques and environmental monitoring programs.
• Experience with calibration, document control, and quality management systems.
• Familiarity with Statistical Process Control (SPC) and process capability studies.
• Experience leading or participating in root cause analysis investigations.
• Knowledge of food industry regulations and quality standards.
• Experience with manufacturing quality systems such as SQF, BRCGS, or FSMA programs.

Key Competencies

• Food Safety & Quality Systems
• Analytical Testing & Data Analysis
• Root Cause Analysis & Problem Solving
• Attention to Detail
• Continuous Improvement
• Teamwork & Collaboration
• Communication & Influence
• Decision Making
• Organization & Documentation

Schedule Requirements

• Must be available to work days, off-shifts, weekends, and overtime as required to support manufacturing operations.