JOB SUMMARY

This position is responsible for development and accuracy of the nutrition facts panel and ingredient declaration for a wide range of products including fresh produce, sandwiches, salads, wraps, dips, and entrees. Ensure adherence of USDA regulatory labeling for fresh and packaged foods and label process integrity. Provides guidance and technical leadership on food labeling regulations.

Calavo has a rich culture of constant innovation and sustainable practices. Calavo evolved from “the first name in avocados” into a global leader of quality produce and food products. We are committed to building diverse teams and an inclusive culture. Our values cultivate shared goals, respect, quality products with a motivated and engaged team that is passionate about what we do.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES: Review supplier specifications for ingredient approval and development of nutrition facts panels, ingredient declarations, and allergen statements. Provides valuable review, approval, and recommended changes of new product launches to meet deadlines.

• Routinely review supplier specifications for ingredient approval and development of nutrition fact panels, ingredient declarations and allergen statements. Verify serving size and servings per container are calculated according to reference amount standards.
• Determine correct nutrition facts panel format to use based on available label space.
• Identify and execute label revisions due to ingredient transitions and supplier revisions.
• Serve as the senior approving party of label approval checklist for all USDA and pre-printed labels.
• Works cross functionally to implement label changes as dictated by USDA or relevant FDA guidance.
• Enter product information into company and customer databases.
• Review finalizing documentation required to prepare for product launch including production specs and merchandising sheets.
• Maintain label artwork approval for USDA and private-branded labels.
• Collaborate with Development and Sales to review recipes and advise on special diet menus to hit target nutritional values.
• Verify new products meet USDA standards of identity and contain accurate sub-descriptors.
• Submit new products for organic certification.
• Develop, update and manage SOPs for applicable functions pertaining to nutrition & labeling.
• Act as designated trainer on related functions to coordinator-level team members.
• Escalate difficult or legal matters to the Quality Systems Manager and keep them informed of all issues, while resolving routine issues independently.
• Maintain up to date knowledge of current food labeling regulations, regulatory activities and trends.
• Perform other duties as needed or directed.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES

• College Degree in Food Science, Nutrition, or related field. Significant related experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 3 years of experience in nutrition labeling and label development.
• Working knowledge of fresh food formulation and corresponding plant production processes
• Knowledge of Esha Genesis software preferred. Experience with label generation software.
• Knowledge of Canada food labeling regulations preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communicator.
• Proficient use of MS Office software.
• Demonstrated ability to remain professional and diplomatic when working under pressure.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES

• Must be able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Must be detail oriented and demonstrate initiative to complete work in a timely manner.
• Ability to interact with a great variety of people tactfully and skillfully, often under stressful conditions.
• Excellent time management skills with proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to apply critical and logical thinking skills, and exercise sound judgment to arrive at appropriate business decisions.
• Ability to analyze data using spreadsheets, formulas, statistical tools, etc.
• Ability to work within a fast-paced dynamic environment and multi-task effectively.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability and initiative to multi-task throughout the day, with attention to detail.

WORK DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

This position is not remote. Candidates must be located near one of our current business operations in Riverside & Sacramento-CA, Conley-GA, Houston-TX, Clackamas-OR, and Vineland-NJ. May be exposed occasionally to chilled temperatures of 28 degrees Fahrenheit, ambient and hot temperature.

PAY RELATED INFORMATION:

• The base salary we reasonably expect to pay for this role is: $60,000 – $87,200
• The actual salary for this role will be determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s skills and experience.
• Please note that base pay is one important aspect of a compelling Total Rewards package. The base pay range indicated here does not include any additional benefits or cash bonuses that you may be eligible for based on your role and/or employment type.

Experience

• 3 year(s): Nutrition labeling and label development

• Knowledge of Canada food labeling preferred .
• ESHA Genesis Software preferred/Experience with label generation software
• Working knowledge of fresh food formulation and corresponding plant production processes.

Education

• Bachelors or better

Skills

• EXCELLENT COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Behaviors

• Detail Oriented: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well