QA Team Lead – Food Manufacturing (18‑month contract)

About the role

We are looking for a Quality Assurance Team Lead based at our Sterling Road factory in Toronto, reporting directly to the Quality Assurance Manager. The role supports the Manager in day‑to‑day leadership of the QA function and acts as a key point of contact in the Manager’s absence, ensuring product release on time and compliance with internal and external requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Lead daily operations of the QA laboratory, including sensory, microbiological, allergen and analytical testing while ensuring compliance with quality, food safety and safety regulations.
• Supervise, coach and develop laboratory team members, providing training, technical guidance and performance feedback.
• Manage allergen control and food safety programs, including risk assessments, investigations, vendor evaluations and corrective actions.
• Coordinate traceability and recall readiness activities, maintaining documentation and verifying product traceability.
• Plan and support internal and external audits, ensuring adherence to quality, food safety, environmental and occupational health standards.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Quality Assurance or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in Quality Assurance, Food Safety, Quality Control or Laboratory Operations within a manufacturing environment.
• Previous supervisory or people‑leadership experience, including coaching, training and performance management of technical teams.
• Strong knowledge of quality management systems, laboratory operations, traceability, allergen management and food safety compliance.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced manufacturing setting and provide support outside standard business hours when required.

Required skills

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Power BI for data analysis and reporting
• FSSC 22000
• ISO 9001
• HACCP
• GMP

What we offer

• Excellent training and development programs with growth opportunities.
• Up to 50 % discount on Nespresso coffee machines, capsules and accessories.
• Access to company discount stores offering Nestlé, Nespresso and Purina products.
• Additional discounts on a variety of products and services through preferred vendors.