About this opportunity
Nexus Search lists this Director Quality Operations opportunity in orlando, Florida. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
A rapidly growing, multi‑site beverage manufacturer is seeking a hands‑on Director of Quality and Food Safety. This leader will elevate food safety culture, build a world‑class sanitation program, and drive innovation across a high‑growth, fast‑moving production environment.
We’re looking for someone equally comfortable in the lab, on the floor, and in front of auditors. The right candidate brings strong experience in thermal processing, microbial control, regulatory compliance, and formulation development.
Base pay range
$180,000.00/yr – $220,000.00/yr
Key Responsibilities
Maintain compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 111, 117, FSMA, and customer‑specific GFSI standards (FSSC 22000, SQF, etc.)
Serve as the primary contact during regulatory inspections, third‑party audits, and customer audits
Lead HACCP plan development, including hazard analysis, validation, and monitoring
Oversee process authority relationships and pasteurization validation studies
Ensure compliance with environmental monitoring, allergen controls, and hygienic equipment maintenance
Approve and validate shelf‑life studies, microbial challenge tests, and stability testing
Sanitation Program Development
Design and implement a comprehensive, multi‑site sanitation program
Develop SSOPs, ATP/visual verification, and chemical control procedures
Establish validated cleaning procedures and environmental monitoring frequencies
Build the foundation for a future dedicated Sanitation Department, including key hires
Partner with Maintenance to ensure CIP systems and equipment meet hygienic design standards
Quality Systems & Laboratory Oversight
Strengthen and standardize quality programs across all facilities (document control, product release, CAPAs, deviations, traceability)
Build, train, and mentor teams in microbiology, analytical testing, and sensory evaluation
Develop and monitor quality metrics (complaints, holds, non‑conformances) and lead root cause analysis
Oversee finished product and ingredient testing: TPC, yeast/mold, coliforms, pH, Brix, DO, sensory
Qualifications
Bachelor’s or Master’s in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemical Engineering, or related field
10+ years in food or beverage manufacturing (RTD, thermal processing, nutraceuticals strongly preferred)
Successful track record managing FDA inspections, customer audits, and GFSI programs
Deep technical expertise in microbiology, sanitation, and preservative systems
Hands‑on experience with pasteurization tunnels, CIP systems, and process validations
Strong people leader with the ability to build and coach high‑performing teams
Seniority level
Director
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Quality Assurance
Industries
Food and Beverage Manufacturing
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Worksite address
orlando, FL, 32885, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.