FSQ Internal Auditor

Job Description

The FSQ Internal Auditor plans and conducts objective internal audits of food-safety and/or quality programs across Kettle Cuisine sites. Based in Savage, Maryland, the role travels to sites quarterly to assess conformance with applicable Food Safety & Quality Plans, document evidence and findings, and verify completion and effectiveness of corrective actions. The role provides practical feedback while preserving auditor objectivity and escalating significant risks promptly.

Responsibilities

- Develop and maintain a risk-informed audit schedule covering assigned food-safety and quality programs across sites.

- Conduct on-site audits at least quarterly using approved criteria and consistent methods; review records, observe practices, interview personnel, and document objective evidence.

- Communicate findings clearly, distinguish observations from conclusions, and issue reports within agreed timelines.

- Agree corrective-action owners and due dates with site leadership; track completion, review evidence, and verify effectiveness before recommending closure.

- Escalate significant or overdue findings through established FSQ channels and maintain complete, controlled audit records.

- Coordinate audit scope and criteria with the relevant Food Safety or Quality Programs Manager while avoiding audits of work for which the auditor is directly responsible.

- Identify recurring themes and opportunities for system-level improvement across sites, as well as across the network between Quality and Food Safety Programs.

Qualifications (Education / Experience / Skills)

- Bachelors degree in Food Science, Food Safety, Quality, or a related field; equivalent relevant experience may be considered.

- Three or more years of experience in food manufacturing, FSQ, auditing, or a related technical role.

- Formal internal-auditor training and working knowledge of food-safety and quality-system audit methods; HACCP or PCQI training preferred.

- Strong observation, interviewing, documentation, and report-writing skills; able to travel regularly and work independently at multiple sites.

- Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive findings professionally and follow through on corrective-action verification.

Success Measures

- Planned quarterly audits are completed with consistent criteria and well-supported findings.

- Corrective actions have clear owners, due dates, documented evidence, and effectiveness verification.

- Significant and recurring risks are escalated and communicated promptly.

As a Leader Within the Kettle Cuisine Team, You Are Expected To

- Model and support Kettle Cuisines Core Values and safety culture.

- Develop individual team members and their careers.

- Create a culture of accountability and performance.

- Drive a focus on quality assurance and continuous improvement.

- Plan work, track results, and resolve issues.

Required Attributes

- Self-directed, with high integrity and sound judgment.

- Positive, collaborative, and able to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

- Organized and able to manage priorities, projects, and metrics in a fast-paced environment.

- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills appropriate to the role.

- Willing to address difficult situations with patience and respect.

- Able to provide after-hours support for critical issues when required by the role.

- Enthusiastic about food and committed to safe, high-quality products.