Associate Director, Food Safety & Quality Assurance Alameda, CA
Eat Just is on a mission to build a healthier, safer, and more sustainable food system—starting with what’s on your plate. From pioneering plant-based eggs to making real meat without slaughter, we’re reimagining the future of food in ways that are better for people and the planet.
We’re a lean, passionate team of scientists, chefs, engineers, and operators who believe that doing hard things well can make a meaningful difference. We’ve brought groundbreaking innovations to market, like Just Egg and GOOD Meat, and we’re just getting started.
If you’re excited by big challenges, real impact, and the chance to shape what the future tastes like—we’d love to meet you.
Eat Just is building a better food system through better products—and we’re looking for someone who can own food safety and quality from end to end. This role is ideal for a self-starter who’s passionate about doing the work and doing it right. You’ll be the point person for all things QA/QC across our internal operations and co-manufacturing partners, with the opportunity to both build and execute systems that scale.
This is a hands-on role in a lean team, suited for someone who thrives in ambiguity, can zoom in and out effortlessly, and knows when to roll up their sleeves and when to step back and see the big picture.
This role reports to the VP, R&D, and will work cross-functionally with all groups and layers of the organization.
Key Responsibilities
Own and manage all QA/QC systems across internal sites and co-manufacturers
Ensure compliance with FDA, USDA, HACCP, PCQI, SQF/BRC, and export regulations
Oversee raw material, in-process, and finished goods specifications and testing
Lead audits, corrective actions, and recall readiness efforts
Manage label development and ensure ongoing regulatory compliance
Coordinate certification submissions and maintain documentation
Partner closely with Ops, R&D, and Manufacturing to embed quality throughout the product lifecycle
Develop and maintain regulatory dossiers for domestic and international markets
Scale quality systems to support new markets and manufacturing partners
Champion a culture of proactive quality and continuous improvement
Qualifications
8–10+ years of relevant food industry experience, including direct QA/QC ownership
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field. Advanced degrees or certifications in food safety or quality management are preferred.
Proven ability to thrive in lean, fast-paced environments—must be both a builder and a doer
Deep understanding of food safety systems, allergen control, and GFSI certification standards
Experience with plant-based food manufacturing a strong plus
Strong working knowledge of food microbiology and product development cycles
Comfortable working with co-manufacturers and navigating international regulatory landscapes
Clear communicator, calm under pressure, and able to lead cross-functional workstreams
Willingness and flexibility to travel up to 25% (maximum)
The total package
We develop our salaries using market data, internal benchmarks, and candidate experience to ensure fairness and competitiveness. All full-time team members receive:
Equity in Eat Just
Up to 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision benefits (up to 80% for dependents)
Flexible time off
Compensation : The expected base salary range for this role (based in Alameda, CA/full-time) is $160,000 – $195,000 per year. Final compensation will be based on skills, experience, and overall contribution to the role.
Additional Information & Requirements
This is a full-time regular position based onsite at our headquarters in Alameda, CA. We are only considering local candidates.
In compliance with federal law, all new hires must verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required Form I-9 upon hire.
Eat Just, Inc. and its subsidiaries participate in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.
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