Director of Quality and Technical Services
- Joplin, MO
- $120,000-200,000 per year
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Provide site leadership for food safety, quality systems, and technical services
- Guide teams across aseptic, ESL, and dairy-based product lines including plant-based alternatives
- Oversee internal and external audits, including regulatory and customer inspections
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams for product launches and continuous improvement initiatives
- Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and customer regulations and requirements
- Lead training and development efforts in quality, sanitation, and food safety practices
- Serve as a subject matter expert for risk mitigation, regulatory trends, and technical troubleshooting
- Coordinate with other quality leaders across facilities, including participation in multi-plant projects
- Represent the site in customer visits, technical calls, and escalation resolution
- Maintain and improve systems for documentation, traceability, and data analysis
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Biological Sciences, Microbiology, or related field required
- Master's degree in Food Science or Microbiology preferred
- 10+ years of FSQ experience in food and beverage manufacturing (dairy preferred)
- 2+ years of leadership experience in a food safety or quality capacity
- Strong knowledge of aseptic processing, ESL, and high-protein formulation environments
- Experience with centralized FSQ leadership and/or multi-plant operations
- Proficiency in regulatory compliance, risk management, commercialization, and audit readiness
- Certifications preferred: PCQI, HACCP, SQF Practitioner (or ability to obtain)
- Demonstrated success working cross-functionally with Operations, R&D, and external partners
- Willingness to travel periodically for quality events, audits, and training initiatives