SQF Practitioner

Lead with Integrity. Shape the Future of Compliance.

At Miesfeld's, we believe compliance is more than meeting regulations -- it is the foundation of trust, innovation, and long-term success.

We are seeking a visionary SQF Practitioner to champion ethical standards, guide our strategy, and ensure our business not only meets, but exceeds industry requirements.

• A seat at the leadership table where your voice drives decisions
• Opportunity to own, design and elevate SQF compliance programs
• A culture that values integrity, accountability, and forward-thinking leadership

If you're a proven compliance leader ready to make your mark, this is where your expertise creates lasting impact.

Join us. Lead with purpose.

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Miesfeld's Core Values

Quality Matters: We provide a brand of understanding products that give our customers premium value.

Customers First: We want the customer experience to guide every decision we make.

Give Back: We work hard to share our success with family, friends, and neighbors.

Teams Win: We will create an environment where everyone is respected, can think big, have fun and make a difference together.

Integrity Always: We will always do what's best for our customers and team by making the most ethical, moral, legal and honest decision possible.

Honor the Past; Work Towards Our Future: We will continue to build upon the hard work and family values of which this company was built on.

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Job Summary
The SQF Practitioner is responsible for developing, implementing, maintaining, and continuously improving the facility's SQF Food Safety System in compliance with the Safe Quality Food (SQF) Code and applicable regulatory requirements. This role serves as the primary SQF contact and ensures ongoing audit readiness, food safety culture, and regulatory compliance throughout the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the Company’s SQF Practitioner and act as the primary point of contact for audits, inspections, and certification processes.
• Maintain and update the SQF Food Safety policies, procedures, and records.
• Develop and implement food safety policies, procedures, and training programs to build a strong food safety culture across all departments.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory agencies (FDA, USDA, state/local authorities) and customer requirements.
• Lead internal audit programs and facilitate third-party, customer, and regulatory audits, ensuring corrective actions are completed on time.
• Manage document control systems, recordkeeping and reporting related to SQF.
• Direct root cause analysis and corrective/preventive action (CAPA) initiatives related to non-conformances and customer complaints.
• Mentor industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices in food safety to ensure the organization remains compliant and competitive.

Qualifications (Education & Experience)

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Quality Assurance, or a related field (master’s preferred).
• Minimum (7) years of progressive experience in food safety and quality assurance within a food manufacturing environment. Meat related preferred.
• Professional certifications (HACCP, SQF Practitioner) -- required.
• Proven experience leading SQF certification programs and serving as an SQF Practitioner.
• In-depth knowledge of SQF Code (Edition 9 Animal Product Manufacturing), HACCP, GMPs, and other relevant regulatory standards.
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing and developing teams.
• Exceptional problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex information clearly.
• Ability to lead and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Skills & Competencies

• Leadership & Influences: Ability to inspire, develop, and hold teams accountable.
• Food Safety Expertise: Deep knowledge of food safety regulations, certification standards, and audit processes.
• Continuous Improvement: Skilled in root cause analysis, process improvement, and implementing corrective actions.
• Collaboration: Strong cross-functional partnership and customer-facing communication skills.
• Accountability: Commitment to upholding the highest standards of food safety and quality.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Primarily office-based with regular time spent in production, packaging, and warehouse areas.
• Exposure to varying temperatures, humidity, and noise levels typical of food manufacturing facilities.
• Must follow all required food safety, GMP, and PPE requirements while on the production floor.
• Regular interaction with cross-functional teams including Operations, Production, Sanitation, and Maintenance.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods while conducting plant audits or inspections.
• Must be able to bend, stoop, climb stairs, and reach overhead as needed for inspections.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Strong visual and auditory -- ability to identify safety and quality concerns.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends during audits, recalls, or emergencies.

Transportation

• Must have reliable transportation

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Miesfeld's is an Equal Opportunity employer, and we value diversity in our workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person