We are looking for a SQA Manager (Direct Material & Release) North America to join our team. This role will be responsible for ensuring food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance of direct materials used in Oatly products in North America.
Responsibilities:
- Manage supplier quality and food safety for direct materials
- Conduct supplier risk assessments, including HACCP and food safety plan reviews
- Approve and manage direct material suppliers from a quality and food safety perspective
- Act as SQA release authority for externally produced products
- Review and approve analytical results and certificates of analysis (CoAs)
- Decide on block, release, or rejection of materials in ERP systems
- Lead food safety and quality investigations related to direct materials
- Coordinate root cause analysis and corrective actions with direct material suppliers
- Support deviations, complaints, and regulatory investigations
- Provide risk-based recommendations during supply disruptions
- Work closely with Q&RA team, Procurement, Operations, Logistics, Innovation, and Site QA teams
Requirements:
- 5+ years in food safety and quality roles within the food industry
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in a food-related discipline such as Food Science, Microbiology, Biological Science, Chemistry, or Food Safety Management
- HACCP certification and FSMA PCQI certification required
- GFSI auditor training (BRCGS, SQF, or FSSC 22000) is preferred
- Continuous improvement or project management training is a plus
- Supplier quality management and audit experience
- Experience with ERP systems and material release/block processes
- Cross-functional experience within manufacturing or supply chain environments
- Strong knowledge of food safety, quality systems, and regulations
- Analytical, structured, and risk-based decision-making
- Clear communication and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Familiarity with ERP systems (preferably D365)
- Knowledge of product lifecycle management, document and deviation management systems
- Fluent in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams)
Benefits:
- Flexible vacation
- Great benefits, including pet insurance
- Paid volunteer days off throughout the year
- Free oat milk
- Collaborative and supportive work environment
Salary: $115,000 per year (good faith estimate)




