Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Quality and Food Safety Specialist supports the Quality Manager in ensuring that the Penn State Berkey Creamery consistently produces safe, high-quality dairy products in full compliance with federal, state, and university requirements. This hands-on role contributes directly to daily quality and food safety operations, including laboratory testing, documentation, regulatory support, and plant floor interaction.
In this role, the Quality and Food Safety Specialist helps maintain and update the Creamery’s Food Safety Plans in accordance with FSMA and the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance, and supports the development and implementation of HACCP, SOPs, SSOPs, allergen programs, and the Food Defense Plan. The position contributes to food safety and quality committees, including allergen awareness, sanitation, and product recall teams. Daily responsibilities include:
Performing or assisting with microbiological, compositional, and sensory testing of raw materials and finished products;
Preparing and maintaining laboratory supplies;
Calibrating instruments;
Performing antibiotic testing of raw milk;
Reviewing sanitation and production records; and
Supporting product release decisions.
The Quality Lab Specialist helps maintain ingredient and product specifications, nutritional labels, formulas, and allergen declarations using nutritional database software, and plays a key role in preparing for regulatory inspections, internal audits, and third-party assessments.
The position also works closely with production and maintenance teams to support routine operations, troubleshoot quality issues, participate in equipment commissioning, and contribute to process improvements. A significant portion of the role involves maintaining accurate records required by FDA, PDA, and other regulatory agencies, including pasteurization charts, sanitation logs, ingredient documentation, and quality control data. The Quality and Food Safety Specialist helps train employees, student staff, contractors, and vendors in Good Manufacturing Practices, food safety, and food defense procedures, supporting the Creamery’s commitment to ongoing education and compliance. Ultimately, this role ensures continuity of daily quality functions, allowing the Quality Manager to focus on long-term program development while supporting the Creamery’s mission of producing safe, high-quality dairy products that uphold the reputation of Penn State.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None
Qualifications:
The position requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, good time management, and the ability to work independently within established guidelines. As part of a small, highly collaborative team, the Quality and Food Safety Specialist must be adaptable and capable of responding to changing production needs while maintaining a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $56,200.00 - $81,500.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.