Quality Engineer

Reporting to the VP of Quality and Food Safety, this position leads a quality focused continuous improvement transformation throughout all Operations, Quality Assurance (QA), Sanitation, and Food Safety programs at the South Edmeston, NY facility. This role validates new processes, systems, and equipment in accordance with Chobani Quality Standards to manufacture safe, quality products. In addition, you will run the manufacturing site's internal Non-Conformance Reporting (NCR) Program, leading Root Cause Analysis' (RCA's), running Corrective Action/Preventative Action (CAPA), and supporting Chobani's Quality Management Systems (QMS). You will also support plant inspections and audits for continuous improvements.

• The Quality Engineering role requires an individual with a project-focused approach to find opportunities to improve and optimize manufacturing processes and quality systems with advanced problem-solving tools
• Use RCA Tools, such as 5-Why's, Fishbones, 8D, to conduct investigative analysis on plant non-conformances and be the primary problem solver representing QA
• This role will lead the Failure Modes Effect Analysis (FMEA) cross-functional team to systematically identify risk and resolve current and expected issues that may result in product holds due to suboptimal quality
• Own NCR/RCA investigations for quality related non-conformances across the entire process, from raw materials receipt through finished goods manufacturing
• Lead NCR/CAPA program by bringing cross functional teams together, leading regular meetings, assigning, and tracking actions, assigning owners and due dates to ensure timely completion of action items
• Run consumer complaint program, lead all investigations related to consumer/customer complaints, and lead a cross functional team to reduce complaints
• Collaborate with site supply chain partners to investigate quality related issues and assist in process improvements that impact quality, food safety, and operational efficiencies
• Provide training to employees in CI tools and techniques
• Partner with Chobani's Supplier Quality Assurance Team to improve Supplier raw material quality by supporting investigations, data collection, and reporting
• Support continuous improvement strategies regarding quality and food safety adherence and lean manufacturing principles within the facility
• Develop reporting and data analytics supporting all CI related activities within the Quality Department
• Support new equipment installation and/or equipment modifications by assessing potential risk to process and product and determining and implementing commissioning requirements
• Support all Quality Management Systems tools/software's with a continuous improvement approach and be site/department's point person for all new system installations
• Develop procedures and trainings to support the full manufacturing process
• Other tasks are assigned

• Bachelor's degree in food engineering, industrial engineering, statistics, science, or related fields
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in food and/or beverage manufacturing
• Proficiency in using various quality tools and methodologies, including, statistical process control (SPC), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), root cause analysis (RCA), Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, and 5S
• Deep knowledge of food manufacturing processes and equipment, e.g., CIP, pumps, valves, automation, diverse fillers, HTST and UHT
• Strong Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to analyze complex data, identify trends and patterns, and perform root cause analysis to resolve quality issues and improve processes
• White or Black Belt certifications and/or Certified Quality Engineer strongly preferred
• Knowledge of relevant industry regulations and standards, such as FDA regulations with PMO experience being a plus but not required
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams, communicate quality objectives and requirements, and report on quality performance
• Desire to continuously learn and stay updated with industry trends and emerging quality practices
• Ability to travel up to 10% domestically

Chobani is a food maker with a mission of making high-quality and nutritious food accessible to more people, while elevating our communities and making the world a healthier place. In short: making good food for all. In support of this mission, Chobani is a purpose-driven, people-first, food-and-wellness-focused company, and has been since its founding in 2005 by Hamdi Ulukaya, an immigrant to the U.S. The Company manufactures yogurt, oat milk, and creamers - Chobani yogurt is America's No.1 yogurt brand, made with natural ingredients without artificial preservatives. Following the 2023 acquisition of La Colombe, a leading coffee roaster with a shared commitment to quality, craftmanship and impact, the Company began selling cold-pressed espresso and lattes on tap at 32 cafes, as well as Ready to Drink (RTD) coffee beverages at retail.

Chobani uses food as a force for good in the world - putting humanity first in everything it does. The company's philanthropic efforts prioritize giving back to its communities and beyond: working to eradicate child hunger, supporting immigrants, refugees and underrepresented people, honoring veterans, and protecting the planet. Chobani manufactures its products in New York, Idaho, Michigan and Australia, and its products are available throughout North America and distributed in Australia and other select markets.

For more information, please visit www.chobani.com and www.lacolombe.com, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Chobani is an equal opportunity employer. Chobani will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on any basis including, but not limited to: race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, military and/or veteran status, marital status, predisposing genetic characteristics and genetic information, or any other classification protected by federal, state and local laws.