Quality Assurance Manager (Perishable CPG)

Who we are:

Easton & Co is a specialty chocolate company. For more than 20 years we have focused on collaborative development with customers to deliver innovative artisanal confections at scale. 

We believe food is an important connection point, and that chocolate is a wonderful celebration of connection. We’re serious about celebrating and creating products that are visually and tastefully exceptional. We take a quality first approach: responsibly sourcing the finest ingredients, investing in innovation, R&D and quality processes – so we can deliver the finest luxury products to our clients and their customers. Our tremendously talented team is what sets us apart. Our team is composed of dynamic people who love what they do and are committed to pushing boundaries, creating value, and working together. Join Easton & Co today!

Position Overview:

We are a growing chocolate manufacturing company seeking an experienced Quality Assurance (QA) Manager to oversee the Quality Assurance department, ensuring the management and maintenance of the SQF (Safe Quality Food) system. This role upholds food safety and regulatory compliance standards while fostering effective communication and collaboration across all organizational levels. The ideal candidate is process-driven, analytical, and solutions-oriented with experience working in small to mid-market companies positioned for growth.

This is a full-time, exempt, supervisory position based out of our Richmond, California Facility.

What You’ll Do:

1. SQF System and Food Safety Oversight

• Serve as the primary SQF Practitioner/Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI), responsible for managing, reviewing, and maintaining the SQF system, including food safety fundamentals and plans in compliance with the current SQF Code
• Develop, implement, and manage FSMA/HACCP-based food safety plans and quality systems, as needed
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and organizational regulations, guidelines, and policies
• Validate and revise the Food Safety and Quality Management System as needed, maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements
• Oversee label compliance, including approvals, nutritional information, and product specifications for internal and external customers

2. Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement

• Establish and manage processes to ensure products meet safety, quality, function, and reliability specifications before shipment
• Identify, analyze, and resolve non-conformances, implementing corrective actions to mitigate risks and prevent recurrence
• Drive continuous process improvements for QA and food safety programs
• Oversee equipment calibration, lab/testing equipment, supplier vetting, and sanitation processes

3. Team Development and Collaboration

• Cultivate and champion a culture of exceptional food safety and quality with all employees
• Build and maintain a high-performing and effective QA team comprising of seasonal QA team-members
• Manage, develop, and maintain food safety training programs for all employees
• Lead and participate in food safety audits, ensuring effective communication of essential information to relevant personnel
• Work closely with operations to ensure regulatory compliance in production and development activities
• Collaborate with suppliers and service providers, including managing invoices and vetting processes
• Partner with E&C customers to ensure mutual service level agreements from a QA perspective are upheld
• Owning and validating vendor requirements for all existing and future relationships
• Foster strong relationships across the organization through collaboration, respect, and team-work

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working at a computer
• Occasional bending, twisting, power-gripping, stooping required
• May lift up to 25 pounds

What You Bring:

• 5+ years of experience in food safety, quality assurance, and SQF systems management
• Strong knowledge of HACCP principles, FDA FSMA preventive controls, and regulatory compliance
• Experience with equipment calibration, lab testing, and sanitation processes
• Familiarity with global market requirements, including Fair Trade certifications
• Exceptional communication and leadership skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Experience in cross-functional collaboration and team development

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary with performance-based incentives, including bonus
• Monthly Medical Stipend of $1000
• 401(k) + company match
• Generous Paid Time Off program
• Company meals, snacks and other perks
• Professional growth and development opportunities

Compensation Range: $130,000 - $140,000

Easton & Co is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Easton & Co is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. If you require accommodation(s), please contact the Talent Representative (HR) at [email protected]