Job Description

SMACKIN’ is on a mission to build an engaging brand that goes far beyond sunflower seeds. While we're known for our flavorful seeds, our vision reaches across product categories. We’re crafting a diverse portfolio, with each product designed to reflect our customers' bold tastes and preferences.

At our core, we believe that anything is possible. This drive fuels our innovation and inspires us to push the boundaries of what a snack brand can be. It's what enables us to create exceptional products and memorable experiences that keep fans and customers coming back.

We're not just building a brand; we're laying the foundation of a legacy. SMACKIN' is moving forward at an unmatched pace, and we're on the lookout for exceptional individuals to help us shape the next iconic global brand. Together, we will create something extraordinary that resonates with customers around the world and leaves a lasting impact.

About The Role:

As the QA and R&D Manager, you will play a critical role in ensuring the highest quality standards for SMACKIN’ products while driving innovation in product development. You will be responsible for overseeing quality assurance processes, food safety compliance, and research & development initiatives.

You are detail-oriented, proactive, and passionate about delivering top-tier quality while pushing the boundaries of product innovation. This role requires a blend of technical expertise in food science, regulatory knowledge, and a creative approach to R&D. You’ll be hands-on in refining processes, optimizing formulations, and ensuring compliance—all while working closely with cross-functional teams to bring new, exciting flavors and product improvements to market.

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, solutions-driven QA and R&D leader who thrives in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. If you’re ready to build best-in-class quality systems and drive product innovation that fuels SMACKIN’s rapid expansion, this role is for you.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Lead and manage the Quality Assurance and R&D functions to ensure product safety, consistency, and innovation
• Develop, implement, and oversee food safety programs (HACCP, GMPs, FSMA compliance) to meet regulatory requirements
• Establish and maintain quality control protocols across all production processes
• Partner with operations to ensure strict adherence to quality standards and identify areas for continuous improvement
• Drive new product development (NPD) from ideation to commercialization, including testing and formulation improvements
• Conduct sensory evaluations, shelf-life testing, and performance assessments for new and existing products
• Manage vendor relationships to source high-quality raw materials and optimize ingredient performance
• Lead process validation, corrective action plans, and troubleshooting efforts to resolve quality issues efficiently
• Maintain all QA documentation, ensuring compliance with third-party audits, certifications, and customer requirements
• Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, marketing, and sales to align R&D and QA initiatives with business goals
• Stay ahead of industry trends, regulatory changes, and consumer preferences to drive innovation and compliance
• Support leadership in scaling production and quality processes as SMACKIN’ expands into new retail and DTC markets

Recipe For Success:

• 5+ years of quality assurance and/or R&D experience in the food & beverage or CPG industry
• 2+ years in a leadership role managing QA or R&D teams
• Strong knowledge of FDA regulations, FSMA, HACCP, GMPs, and food safety best practices
• Experience in product formulation, ingredient functionality, and sensory analysis
• Ability to troubleshoot and solve quality and process-related issues efficiently
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Detail-oriented with strong documentation and analytical skills
• Ability to work cross-functionally to align QA and R&D initiatives with overall business strategy
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for innovation, problem-solving, and continuous improvement
• Experience with SQF, BRC, or other third-party certification programs is a plus
• Degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or a related field preferred

Why SMACKIN’?

We value experience. For our customers, our partners, and our employees. We hire awesome people (like you!) who are smart, driven, and have a growth mindset. We have a thriving culture where you’ll have interesting problems to solve with the autonomy you need to make a difference. And, of course, we have the perks/benefits to enable you to do your best work.

• Competitive Salary
• Employer paid option for medical, dental, and vision
• Annual wellness & cell phone stipend
• 14 company paid holidays
• Delicious sunflower seeds & snacks of course!

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