Laboratory & QA Regulatory Specialist - Certified Origins Inc.

Laboratory & QA Regulatory Specialist

Department: Quality Assurance (QA)/Regulatory Compliance
Reports To: QA Manager

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced food Testing Specialist with robust knowledge in sensory, analytical, and laboratory testing specific to food. The ideal candidate will conduct detailed sensory and chemical analyses of olive oil to ensure product quality and regulatory compliance. Requiring a broad knowledge in food safety, food science, and compliance with industry standards such as the SQF (Safe Quality Food) certification, HACCP, FSMA, and Codex Alimentarius.

Duties/Responsibilities:

1. Olive Oil Sensory Analysis:
   • Perform organoleptic evaluations of EVOO, assessing factors like aroma, taste, color, and texture.
   • Detect sensory defects (e.g., rancidity, fustiness) based on international standards such as IOC or Codex Alimentarius​.
   • Conduct panel training and maintain calibration of internal tasting panels.
2. Chemical and Analytical Testing:
   • Perform chemical analyses of olive oils, including peroxide value, free fatty acids, UV absorbance (K232 and K270), and other standard parameters​.
   • Use gas chromatography, spectrometry, and other laboratory equipment to evaluate fatty acid composition, sterols, and other quality indicators​.
   • Ensure compliance with ISO, AOCS, and other industry standards for olive oil testing​​.
3. Laboratory Management:
   • Operate and maintain lab equipment used for chemical testing.
   • Develop and implement laboratory protocols for olive oil analysis​.
   • Collaborate with external labs for additional testing as required.
4. Food Safety & Quality Assurance:
   • Serve as the backup for the QA and Regulatory Manager, overseeing food safety programs, regulatory compliance, and quality systems​.
   • Ensure compliance with FSMA, HACCP, and SQF food safety regulations, conducting risk-based preventive controls and audits​​.
   • Collaborate in the development and maintenance of the Food Safety Plan, including hazard analysis and preventive controls​.
5. Regulatory Compliance:
   • Monitor and ensure product compliance with food safety regulations, including the Codex Alimentarius standards for olive oils and the FDA’s FSMA requirements​​.
   • Review and update labeling to ensure it meets domestic and international regulatory requirements.
6. Documentation and Reporting:
   • Maintain accurate records of sensory and chemical tests.
   • Prepare reports for internal stakeholders and regulatory bodies.
   • Assist in preparing for audits and regulatory inspections​​.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or related field.
• Experience:
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in food or related testing and sensory analysis.
  • Strong laboratory experience in chemical analysis and quality control of food.
  • Background in food safety regulations (HACCP, FSMA, SQF).
• Skills:
  • Expertise in sensory analysis techniques and olive oil defect detection.
  • Strong knowledge of olive oil chemical standards and testing methods (e.g., ISO, AOCS standards).
  • Familiarity with food safety management systems such as HACCP, SQF, and Codex Alimentarius​​.
  • Proficiency in regulatory compliance for the food industry.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in sensory analysis for olive oils from IOC or equivalent.
• Experience with auditing or food safety regulatory roles.
• Knowledge of FSVP regulations for food imports​.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Attention to detail and precision in sensory and chemical analyses.
• Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks and the ability to implement them.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external labs.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to manage multiple projects.

Physical Requirements: 

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer. 

• Must be able to lift at least 30 pounds at times. 

• Prolonged periods of standing at times.  

Additional Information 

PTO, holidays, health, dental, life insurance, and 401K participation. Equal Opportunity Employer.