Quality Assurance (QA) Lead - 1st Shift

About Dairy Farmers of America:
Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) is a farmer‑owned cooperative and one of the largest dairy companies in the world. We are committed to producing high‑quality dairy products while supporting our farmer‑owners, employees, and the communities where we live and work. Our people are the foundation of our success, and we value teamwork, integrity, safety, and continuous improvement.

 

At our Green Bay facility, we produce and package dairy and non‑dairy sauces, including queso, BBQ, icing, and marinara, for our customers across the country. Our team supports both refrigerated and shelf‑stable products that are made with a focus on quality, safety, and consistency.

 

Job Details:

• Competitive pay based on experience, education, and qualifications
• 1st Shift
• Overtime is required based on business and production needs and is typically planned and posted in advance
• Job Location: 1552 Lineville Road, Green Bay, WI 54313

Position Summary:

Coordinate daily laboratory and quality assurance activities to support the production of safe, high-quality products and compliance with food safety, customer, regulatory, and company requirements. Provide training, guidance, and technical support to laboratory and quality personnel while serving as a lead resource for laboratory operations and quality programs. Perform laboratory testing, environmental monitoring, quality verification, and documentation activities to produce accurate and timely results. Support investigations, audits, and corrective actions to maintain the highest standards of food safety and product quality.

 

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate daily laboratory and quality assurance activities by assigning work, monitoring testing accuracy and efficiency, conducting work area inspections, resolving escalated issues, and providing input on employee development and performance management
• Lead, train, mentor, and cross-train quality team members on laboratory methods, quality programs, CCP verification and calibration activities, GMPs, food safety requirements, and quality procedures while fostering a strong food safety and quality culture
• Perform laboratory testing, environmental monitoring, quality control activities, equipment calibrations, maintenance coordination, and troubleshooting to support product quality and regulatory compliance
• Monitor product quality, review test results and quality trends, investigate non-conformances and out-of-specification conditions, collaborate with production teams on root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions to address deviations
• Administer product hold and release programs, product retention and shelf-life programs, and verification activities to support the production of safe, high-quality products
• Conduct internal audits, facility verifications, inspections, and audit preparation activities while supporting customer, regulatory, and third-party audits and maintaining knowledge of applicable federal, state, customer, and company requirements
• Maintain accurate quality records, environmental monitoring data, and laboratory documentation; review findings, track corrective actions, and verify compliance with established procedures and recordkeeping requirements
• Review, revise, maintain, and develop SOPs, SSOPs, laboratory procedures, labels, supplier documentation, and operational documents to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance
• Support quality and operational initiatives by assisting with new item setup, special projects, new testing implementation, GMP compliance monitoring, sanitation program verification, workplace safety initiatives, and continuous improvement efforts
• Collaborate with production leadership and cross-functional teams to communicate quality expectations, resolve issues in a timely manner, maintain extensive product knowledge, and provide backup support for Quality Supervisor responsibilities, including off-shift and vacation coverage as needed
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Post-secondary education related to food science, biological science, or related sciences preferred
• 4 to 6 years of food manufacturing, laboratory, food testing, quality assurance, and/or related work experience
• Demonstrated leadership attributes or team lead experience
• Certification and/or License – may be required during course of employment such as Better Processing Certificate, state certification for antibiotic testing, etc.

Qualifications:

• Mastery of applicable laboratory equipment and laboratory processes
• Strong understanding of how laboratory analysis relates to different steps in the manufacturing process
• Able to fully understand and articulate the impact a laboratory has on the company as a whole
• Able to use Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
• Able to follow laboratory procedures and state and federal regulations regarding the testing of applicable products
• Able to promote a team environment
• Able to adapt and manage to change effectively
• Able to multi-task and problem solve
• Able to prioritize tasks and work independently
• Able to work with accuracy and attention to detail
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Able to take initiative in performing job and seek increased responsibilities
• Able to work in collaboration, foster good teamwork, and promptly share relevant information with others
• Able to interact positively and work effectively with others (interpersonal skills)
• Must be able to read, write and speak English 

Benefits and Perks:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Company‑provided short‑term disability, long‑term disability, and life insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous vacation time and sick time
• 7 paid holidays annually
• Career advancement and training opportunities within a stable, growing organization
• Paid uniforms, safety toe shoes, and prescription safety eyewear
• Benefits available following eligibility requirements

Conditions of Employment:

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of post-offer, pre-employment requirements, which may include a background check, employment and education verification, and a drug screen, as permitted by law. Verification of eligibility to work in the United States is required. Dairy Farmers of America complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding pre-employment screening and employment eligibility.

 

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans