Food Safety Program Specialist

About the Food Safety Program Specialist

As a Food Safety Program Specialist at Areas USA, you will play a critical role in ensuring best-in-class quality and food safety standards across all business units. Reporting to the Director of Food Safety & Health and part of the Operational Excellence team, you will work with limited supervision to perform analysis, deliver specialized reporting, and collaborate with team members to drive actionable solutions for food safety challenges.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and support food safety and quality assurance programs.
• Conduct regular assessments and audits for regulatory compliance.
• Train and educate team members on food safety standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive improvement.
• Coordinate brand assessments to ensure company standards are met.
• Investigate food safety incidents and implement corrective actions.
• Analyze food safety data and provide recommendations.
• Support cleaning and sanitation programs with schedules and procedures.
• Maintain documentation and records for regulatory compliance.
• Stay updated on food safety regulations and emerging risks.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for operators and team members.
• Partner with auditors and regulatory agencies for inspections and follow-ups.

Skills and Qualifications

• Detail-oriented and organized.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivated with proactive problem-solving skills.
• Strong business acumen and a desire to improve business impact.
• Ability to pass security clearance and background checks.
• ServSafe Food Safety Manager Certification required; Proctor/Instructor preferred.
• CP-FS or REHS certification preferred.
• Bachelor's Degree preferred but not required.
• Willingness to travel (approximately 30%).

Benefits

Full-time eligible employees receive medical, dental and vision benefits, voluntary insurance options, company-sponsored life insurance, a free employee assistance program, competitive time off, company holidays, a 401k with company match, travel and entertainment discount programs, a location meal program, and bonus eligibility.

EEOC Statement

Areas USA is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive environment. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability status, or veteran status.

Physical Demands

This role is primarily sedentary, operating in an office environment using standard equipment. Occasional lifting up to 20 pounds and minor bending or standing may be required.

Key Skills/Competency

• Food Safety
• Quality Assurance
• Regulatory Compliance
• Auditing
• Training
• Data Analysis
• Continuous Improvement
• Corrective Actions
• Sanitation
• Documentation