Kindly be advised that we are handling the recruitment for this position internally and are not partnering with external recruiters.
We Are a Biology Company
Plantible, backed by Astanor Ventures, Lerer Hippeau, Piva Capital, Kellogg’s, and Vectr Ventures, is a vertically integrated biology company that is unlocking the power in plants in service of people & planet. Our mission is to create solutions that empower customers to make sustainable and regenerative choices without compromising on quality. We are beginning with the food industry. Please visit our website to learn more about our mission and continued success: https://www.plantiblefoods.com/
How You Will Contribute
As Director of Food Safety & Quality (FSQ), you will serve as a strategic and operational leader responsible for shaping and strengthening Plantible Foods’ food safety and quality systems as we scale. In this highly impactful role, you will develop, implement, and continuously improve our Food Safety Management System to ensure compliance with global standards such as FSSC 22000 and regulatory frameworks including Food Safety Modernization Act Preventive Controls, while maintaining key certifications such as Gluten-Free Certification, Halal Certification, Kosher Certification, and Non-GMO Project Verification.
You will lead all food safety, quality assurance, laboratory, and regulatory compliance programs, partnering closely with operations and leadership to build robust systems, drive continuous improvement, and foster a strong food safety culture across the organization. If you are passionate about operational excellence, regulatory integrity, and empowering teams to uphold the highest quality standards, this role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on both our products and our people.
What You Will Be Working On
Develop and maintain the Food Safety Management System aligned with FSSC 22000.
Ensure compliance with FSMA Preventive Controls and FDA food regulations.
Maintain the Food Safety Plan, including hazard analysis, preventive controls, CCPs, and OPRPs.
Lead certification programs, including FSSC 22000, Gluten-Free, Halal, Kosher, and Non-GMO.
Prepare and lead internal audits, certification audits, customer audits, and regulatory inspections.
Promote a strong food safety culture through GEMBA walks and operational coaching.
Oversee Environmental Monitoring Program and contamination control programs.
Ensure laboratory and quality testing programs meet internal and regulatory requirements.
Maintain traceability systems and lead mock recall exercises.
Lead investigations of food safety deviations and CAPA programs.
Manage supplier quality and ingredient compliance programs.
Develop and implement food safety training programs across the organization.
Required Competencies
Strong knowledge of FSSC 22000, FSMA Preventive Controls, and HACCP.
Regulatory compliance expertise.
Environmental monitoring and contamination control knowledge.
Food safety risk assessment.
Root cause analysis and CAPA management.
Strategic leadership and cross-functional collaboration.
Coaching and mentoring skills.
Data-driven decision making.
What You Bring To Plantible
Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline. Master’s degree preferred.
10+ years of experience in food safety and quality roles.
5+ years of leadership experience.
Experience in GFSI-certified facilities such as FSSC 22000, SQF, or BRCGS.
Experience in food ingredients, alternative proteins, or biotech manufacturing is preferred.
Preferred Certifications: PCQI – Preventive Controls Qualified Individual, HACCP Certification, FSSC 22000 Lead Auditor or Internal Auditor
Choose Plantible Foods
Joining Plantible means contributing to a sustainable future for all. We are a venture backed startup that is both spreading happiness amongst our employees and to current and future generations. We believe diversity creates uniqueness. Our team is composed of highly talented people with different interests and hobbies, which makes for a rich working environment.
At Plantible we are continually working on our offerings to foster the best team. Check it out!
Competitive health and wellness benefits
Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
Discretionary Unlimited PTO Program
Paid Holidays
401k Program
Career Stipend
Career development and growth opportunities
Working in a rapidly growing, flexible and entrepreneurial environment
Team building and company-wide events
Financial support with your relocation, if necessary, ensuring a smooth transition
And of course, lots of beautiful land for outdoor activities!
Plantible Foods is an equal employment opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, liability for military service, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you are interested in learning the status of your application, please note you will be contacted directly by the appropriate human resources contact person if you are selected for further consideration. Plantible Foods reserves the right to defer or close a vacancy at any time.
If you feel your skill set does not meet all listed qualifications for the role, we still encourage you to apply. As we continue to grow our company, we are seeking a range of candidates and would gladly consider you for other current or upcoming roles that may be a fit!
