Food Safety & QA Specialist I

The Food Safety & QA Specialist I will primarily focus on the implementation and maintenance of food safety policies and procedures at the production floor level. This role plays a key part in supporting the Quality Assurance (QA) department by ensuring the facility and its products meet customer specifications and audit requirements. MEASURES OF SUCCESS: Maintain a thorough understanding of the company’s Food Safety Program, including relevant policies and protocols. Perform daily reviews of records related to quality inspections, HACCP, SSOP, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) within the facility. Conduct regular, direct observations of food safety-related actions, including monitoring the Food Safety Program, sanitation processes, and other inspection activities. Demonstrate strong knowledge of food safety programs and the regulatory requirements associated with these programs. Lead or assist with weekly or monthly inspections, working alongside process owners and supportive departments for each business unit. Understand audit requirements and related programs. Conduct periodic reviews of relevant records to ensure compliance with audits and assist with organizing audit materials. Maintain and analyze trends related to food safety inspections, self-inspections, and other relevant issues for management evaluation. Utilize available data to aid in continuous improvement efforts related to food safety and quality in production, maintenance, sanitation, and quality assurance areas. Attend and actively participate in regular Food Safety Training sessions. Lead or participate in meetings with Quality and Production employees to ensure effective communication of food safety and quality topics at all organizational levels. Provide support for the development and maintenance of written programs and documentation to ensure clear communication of plant policies, procedures, and programs. IDEAL CANDIDATE ATTRIBUTES: BS in Food Science or related field preferred. Previous experience in food safety, quality assurance, or a related role in a food production environment. Strong knowledge of HACCP, SSOP, GMP, and food safety regulations. Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written. Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and food safety management systems. Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments. HACCP certification preferred. Bilingual preferred – English/Spanish. BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS: Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance. Free Life and Disability Insurance. Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts. 401k with 3% company match and annual employer discretionary contribution. Paid vacation, holidays and sick time. Employee Assistance Program. Access to thousands of free online courses. Discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more! Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional certifications). Referral Program with cash bonus. Access to on-demand pay. Paid parental leave. Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the Company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zocon®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, Central has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. The Company is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, and employs over 6,000 people, primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.