Food Safety and Quality Assurance Manager - Thermal Process

Job Description

The Opportunity:
The FSQA Manager, Thermal Process position will appeal to individuals who enjoy the challenge of  learning and growing while doing.  As part of the MLF Thermal Process team, the FSQA Manager – Thermal Process will work closely with the MLF Thermal Process Authority to develop and execute  the thermal process validation program,  develop thermal processes  including related manufacturing and FSQA activities,  toward ensuring  the continued safety and effectiveness of thermal processes and thermal related systems,  support the development of new food products,  trouble shoot and support thermal system and related systems and process improvements,  and assess process deviations.   This person needs to be self-motivated, team oriented, enjoy a fast-paced environment, dogged in their pursuit of the end goal, and capable of bringing creative approaches to the resolution of the broad array of challenges with which they will be confronted. The FSQA Manager - Thermal Process must also enjoy the comprehensive nature of the job that will require involvement in detailed data analysis, rigorous report writing and hands on plant activities. A passion for food safety with an ability to use science and technology in problem solving is essential.  This role has a focus on Thermal Processing throughout the MLF network and, at times, extensive travel is required to meet the needs of this position.

Any MLF team member interested in being considered for this role are encouraged to apply online by November 23, 2026. Applications received beyond that date are not guaranteed consideration.

Reason for vacancy:  Existing Headcount 
Compensation:  $96,000 - $141,000 CAD base pay annually plus annual short-term incentive

The above compensation reflects the target compensation for the position at the time of posting. The base salary offered may vary based on a variety of factors including skills, experience, education, training, job- related knowledge, and other organizational requirements. For part-time roles, salaries are adjusted according to scheduled hours.  In addition to base salary, this role is eligible to participate in Maple Leaf’s annual short-term incentive plan. 

Snapshot of a Day-in-the-Life:

• Execute the thermal validation program, including related Manufacturing and FSQA activities.  Support FSQA, Operations, and Product Development teams as required.
• Coordinate with plants to manage priorities and tasks io order to most efficiently complete objectives and maintain business continuity
• Plan and execute temperature distribution studies on existing, new and modified equipment, including assessment of the various types of cooking systems and equipment types, from canning to batch houses, to continuous systems and equipment in the MLF Network. 
• Validate new and existing product thermal processes as required
• Extensive use of data collection/analysis software such as CalSoft, NumeriCal, MadgeTech, HOBOWare, Thermodata Viewer, etc.
• Prepare and presents technical reports/results, both written and oral, to associates, peers and management
• Review thermal deviations and provide fact-based disposition, as required
• Participate in cross functional teams responsible for projects
• Understand and stay up to date on all applicable thermal processing food safety requirements (Internal, CFIA, FDA, USDA, etc.)
• Conducts risk assessments for changes to formulation and/or process to determine if thermal validation is required
• Independently develop project work plans to execute projects efficiently.
• Consults technical resources (literature, technical papers, academia, etc.) to further knowledge and apply the learning to execute projects
• Completes any continuous education training deemed necessary to build/maintain the requirements of the position
• Maintains project files to ensure collection and transfer of learning and knowledge

Qualifications

What You’ll Bring:

• Post-secondary education in Food Science or a related Science discipline
• Computer proficiency in MS Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.). Open to new ways of learning and doing things including use of AI, etc. 
• Can effectively communicate to Sr. Management on key issues i.e. facts, recommendations, implications and next steps
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Must enjoy and thrive in a fast-paced environment and deliver commitments in a timely and accurate manner
• Flexibility of schedule – schedule may require various start times due to manufacturing and production schedule availability
• Ownership of a vehicle and willingness to travel.  Extensive out of province travel will be required at times to support thermal processes in the MLF Network.
• Exposure to manufacturing environments for periodic extended workdays that can include loud noise, heat, cold, wet and slippery conditions
• The ability to move safely and freely around machinery in manufacturing environments.

Additional Information

What We Offer at Maple Leaf Foods:

• Being part of a high-performance, people-focused company that has an inspiring and unique vision to become the most sustainable protein company on earth, and a deep commitment to sustainable protein across North America.
• An inclusive company culture and a work environment that keeps our people safe, rewards excellence, and empowers everyone to learn and contribute their best. 
• Competitive Health and Wellness benefits that offer flexibility to meet your individual or family needs, including programs focused on improving mental health and wellbeing. These benefits start on your first day of employment.
• Defined Contribution Pension Plan with company matching that starts on your first day of employment.
• Learning and development opportunities, including workshops, ‘speaker series’ events, and resources that allow you to develop your skills and progress your career.
• Comprehensive tuition reimbursement program that supports continuous learning and development of our team members through investment in eligible degrees, diplomas, professional certification, or trades programs.
• Supporting our deep commitment to community impact, we offer up to two paid days annually to volunteer at a cause of your choice.

We thank all applicants for their interest in exploring employment opportunities with Maple Leaf Foods; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Applicants may be subject to a background check and must meet the security criteria designated for the position.Championing diversity and inclusion is a critical component to advancing our collective purpose and vision, living the Maple Leaf Leadership Values, and delivering winning results. Accommodation is available upon request for applicants with disabilities in the recruitment and assessment process and when hired; please contact our Talent Attraction Team at [email protected]:  Please note that salaries posted on sites other than the MLF Careers Page are not a reflection of Maple Leaf Foods and are an estimated salary range provided by that particular job board.  Maple Leaf Foods offers competitive wages and an attractive total rewards package, which will be discussed during an interview with our Talent Team.

Budgeted Salary / Salaire budgété: 96,000-141,000