Sr. Food Safety & Quality Assurance Manager

Just Food Company is building a better food system through better products-and we're looking for someone who can own food safety and quality from end to end. This role is ideal for a self-starter who's passionate about doing the work and doing it right. You'll be the point person for all things QA/QC across our internal operations and co-manufacturing partners, with the opportunity to both build and execute systems that scale.

This is a hands-on role in a lean team, suited for someone who thrives in ambiguity, can zoom in and out effortlessly, and knows when to roll up their sleeves and when to step back and see the big picture.

This role reports to the CTO with a dotted line to the COO, and will work cross-functionally with all groups and layers of the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and manage all QA/QC systems across internal sites and co-manufacturers
• Ensure compliance with FDA, USDA, HACCP, PCQI, SQF/BRC, and export regulations
• Oversee raw material, in-process, and finished goods specifications, testing, and release
• Lead audits, corrective actions, and recall readiness efforts
• Manage label development and ensure ongoing regulatory compliance
• Coordinate certification submissions and maintain documentation
• Partner closely with Ops, R&D, and Manufacturing to embed quality throughout the product lifecycle
• Develop and maintain regulatory dossiers for domestic and international markets
• Scale quality systems to support new markets and manufacturing partners
• Champion a culture of proactive quality and continuous improvement
• Travel to co-manufacturing facilities as needed to monitor food safety and quality performance, verify compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements, and partner with site teams to resolve issues and drive continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 8-10+ years of relevant food industry experience, including direct QA/QC ownership
• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in food science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field. Advanced degrees or certifications in food safety or quality management are preferred.
• Proven ability to thrive in lean, fast-paced environments-must be both a builder and a doer
• Deep understanding of food safety systems, allergen control, and GFSI certification standards
• Experience with plant-based food manufacturing a strong plus
• Strong working knowledge of food microbiology and product development cycles
• Comfortable working with co-manufacturers and navigating international regulatory landscapes
• Clear communicator, calm under pressure, and able to lead cross-functional workstreams
• Willingness and flexibility to travel both domestically and internationally without restrictions up to 25% (maximum).

The total package

We develop our salaries using market data, internal benchmarks, and candidate experience to ensure fairness and competitiveness. All full-time team members receive:

• Competitive base salary
• Equity
• Up to 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision benefits (up to 80% for dependents)
• Flexible time off

Compensation: The expected base salary range for this role (based in Emeryville, CA/full-time) is $145,000 - $175,000 per year. Final compensation will be based on skills, experience, and overall contribution to the role.

Additional Information & Requirements

This is a full-time regular position based onsite (5 days/week) at our headquarters in Emeryville, CA. We are only considering local candidates.

In compliance with federal law, all new hires must verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required Form I-9 upon hire.

Just Food Company and its subsidiaries participate in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.