POSITION TITLE
QA Specialist
POSITION SUMMARY
A leading Japanese food importer and distributor is seeking a QA Specialist to support food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance activities. This position will play a key role in maintaining food safety programs, ensuring product and labeling compliance, supporting audits, and working with suppliers and regulatory agencies.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Implement and monitor HACCP, GMP, sanitation, allergen control, food defense, recall, and supplier verification programs
Conduct food safety audits and supplier inspections and follow up on corrective actions
Maintain QA documentation, including product specifications, COAs, laboratory results, audit certificates, and food safety records
Review imported product labels and ingredients for compliance with applicable U.S. federal and state regulations
Research FDA, USDA, state, and other applicable regulatory requirements
Investigate customer quality complaints, identify root causes, and implement corrective and preventive actions
Maintain and improve quality management systems, SOPs, policies, and procedures across company branches
Coordinate with FDA, USDA, local health departments, and other government agencies during inspections
Develop and provide QA and food safety training to employees
Support warehouse sanitation and pest control programs
Conduct laboratory testing when necessary for food safety and quality verification
Work closely with suppliers, sales teams, and internal departments on QA-related matters
Travel to company branches and supplier locations as needed
QUALIFICATIONS
Business-level English required; business-level Japanese preferred
Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or a related field strongly preferred
3+ years of experience in food safety, quality assurance, or a related field preferred
Knowledge of HACCP, GMP, food safety systems, and quality assurance procedures
HACCP, GMP, or other quality system certifications are a plus
Experience with food labeling, regulatory compliance, audits, and QA documentation preferred
Strong documentation, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office; knowledge of Microsoft Business Central, SAP, or other ERP systems preferred
Knowledge of Japanese food and beverage products is a plus
LOCATION
El Monte, CA
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-Time
SALARY
USD 72,000-92,000
BENEFITS
Company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents, life insurance, 401(k) with company match, and other benefits
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