Quality Assurance Associate

About UsAt Cibo Vita, innovation drives everything we do. Based in Totowa, NJ, we craft premium healthy snacks under the Nature's Garden brand, combining quality ingredients with creative flavor and function. Our products are designed to support wellness, sustainability, and better snacking choices – helping consumers "Snack With Purpose."Job SummaryThe Quality Assurance Associate plays a critical role in ensuring that all products meet the company's high standards for food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. This position is responsible for conducting routine inspections and testing throughout the manufacturing process, monitoring product quality attributes such as taste, appearance, texture, temperature, moisture, and microbiological safety. The Associate supports compliance with GMPs, SOPs, and food-safety regulations while accurately documenting inspection results, non-conformities, and corrective actions. This role collaborates closely with Production, R&D, and Engineering teams to identify quality concerns, investigate root causes, implement corrective measures, and support continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and committed to maintaining the highest standards in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.Key ResponsibilitiesPerform routine quality inspections throughout the food manufacturing process to identify any deviations from established quality standards.Conduct visual checks, measurements, and sensory evaluations to ensure products meet specifications for taste, appearance, and texture.Collect and test samples at various stages of production, utilizing standard testing methods and equipment to evaluate key attributes such as pH, moisture content, temperature, and microbiological safety.Document and report any quality issues or non-conformities discovered during inspections and assist in investigating root causes.Monitor and verify compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and other relevant quality and safety regulations.Participate in the calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment to ensure accurate and reliable test results.Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, R&D, and engineering, to address quality concerns, implement corrective actions, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.Assist in the development and revision of quality control procedures, specifications, and work instructions.Maintain accurate records of test results, inspection findings, and other quality-related documentation.Support the implementation and maintenance of quality management systems, such as HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points).QualificationsHigh School Diploma or equivalent.Additional education or certification in food science, quality assurance, or a related field is a plus.Requirements1–3 years' prior experience in a food manufacturing environment is preferred but not required; recent graduates or candidates with relevant internships are encouraged to apply.Basic knowledge of food safety principles, quality control methods, and regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, USDA, GFSI Standards).Familiarity with laboratory equipment and testing techniques is desirable.Strong attention to detail and the ability to accurately record and interpret data.Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively communicate quality issues and collaborate with different teams.Proficient computer skills, including the use of MS Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).Ability to work independently as well as within a team, adapting to changing priorities and meeting deadlines.Flexibility to work in shifts and adapt to a fast-paced production environment.What We OfferMedical, Dental and Vision BenefitsLife Insurance401(k)PTOCompany Paid HolidaysCareer advancement and trainingJ-18808-Ljbffr