Director Quality Systems

Director Quality SystemsQuality AssuranceElk Grove Village, Illinois, US Added - 12/02/2026 Director of Quality Systems / FSQALocation: Greater Chicago area (NW suburbs)Schedule: Monday-Friday, 1st Shift (Onsite)Compensation: ~$150,000 base + 20% bonus opportunityIndustry: Food / Ingredient ManufacturingAbout the RoleA growing food and ingredient manufacturer is seeking a strategic, hands-on Director of Quality Systems / Food Safety & Quality Assurance (FSQA) to lead enterprise-wide food safety, quality, and regulatory initiatives. This leader will own the development and execution of a best-in-class Quality Management System (QMS) while ensuring compliance with FDA, USDA, FSMA, and GFSI standards (SQF/BRC).This is a highly visible leadership role partnering closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement, regulatory excellence, and a strong food safety culture across manufacturing and distribution operations.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & Regulatory Compliance Develop and execute the company's FSQA strategy aligned with business goals and customer expectations Ensure compliance with FSMA Preventive Controls, HACCP/HARPC, GMPs, allergen controls, and traceability requirements Lead regulatory inspections and serve as the primary liaison with federal, state, and local agencies Maintain and elevate certifications such as SQF, BRC, Organic, Kosher, Halal, and customer-specific standards Quality Systems & Operational Excellence Oversee all FSQA programs, SOPs, and documentation systems Direct environmental monitoring, sanitation verification, pathogen control, and label accuracy Lead root cause analysis and CAPA initiatives using data-driven KPIs Manage internal, external, and customer audits, including co-manufacturer quality agreements Cross-Functional Leadership Partner with Operations, R&D, Engineering, and Supply Chain to embed quality across all processes Support process capability improvements, hygienic design, and line validations Lead incident management including deviations, foreign material investigations, and recall readiness Team Development Lead and mentor FSQA managers, supervisors, and technicians Build a strong food safety culture through training and coaching Maintain a visible presence on the production floor to support teams and drive accountability Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field 5-8+ years of progressive FSQA leadership experience in food manufacturing Strong knowledge of FDA/USDA regulations, GFSI schemes (SQF or BRC), HACCP, and GMPs PCQI and HACCP certifications required SQF Practitioner or BRC Site Lead certification preferred Experience in fast-paced manufacturing environments (co-packing or frozen foods a plus) Strong analytical, leadership, and stakeholder management skills Lean or Six Sigma experience is a plus Work Environment Regular presence on the production floor (variable temperatures) Ability to lift up to 50 lbs during audits or inspections Occasional extended hours based on operational needs INDBH#LI-ES1We 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, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Created: 2026-03-04