Senior Quality Associate

Senior Quality Control Associate – Scarborough, ON

Location: Toronto, ON

Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire

Reports to: Quality Assurance Manager

Salary: $60,000-$70,000 (Dependent on experiene)

About the Company

Our client is a dynamic and growing Canadian manufacturing and co-packing organization, committed to high-quality production standards and operational excellence. They operate in a hands-on, collaborative environment with a flat structure that encourages accountability, professional growth, and cross-functional teamwork. The team embraces a growth mindset, continuous improvement, and a strong focus on quality at every stage of the production process.

Position Overview

The Senior Quality Control Associate plays a key leadership role in supporting daily quality operations while acting as a trusted second to the Quality Assurance Manager. This position is both hands-on and mentorship-oriented, responsible for guiding junior QA staff, leading investigations, and supporting cross-functional teams across production, co-packing, and logistics. The ideal candidate thrives on the production floor, communicates confidently, and ensures compliance with quality systems while continuously improving processes.

This is a floor-focused role (~70% floor, 30% desk) with the ability to step in and lead in the absence of the QA Manager.

Key Responsibilities

Quality Systems & Compliance

• Execute QA activities aligned with management direction and priorities.
• Maintain compliance with SOPs, work instructions, and company quality standards.
• Support the continuous improvement of the Quality Management System (QMS).
• Participate in internal, customer, and third-party audits as required.

Non-Conformance & Corrective Action

• Lead or support investigations into non-conformances, deviations, and complaints.
• Conduct root cause analysis and assist in implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Ensure timely and effective closure of assigned quality issues.

Operational Quality Support

• Provide hands-on QA support to production and co-packing teams.
• Review and approve quality documentation, batch records, and release paperwork.
• Escalate quality risks or concerns promptly to management.
• Mentor and coach junior QA staff and cross-functional team members.
• Reinforce quality expectations and SOP adherence on the floor.
• Identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities; provide recommendations.
• Act as a trusted quality partner for Operations and leadership teams.

Must-Have Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 5 years QA experience in manufacturing, packaging, co-packing, or logistics environments.
• Hands‐on experience on the production floor; understands workflow and line operations.
• Proven ability to lead non‐conformance investigations and perform root cause analysis.
• Familiarity with ISO, GMP, or similar quality frameworks (asset).
• Strong understanding of QA systems, audits, SOPs, and CAPA processes.
• Ability to confidently elevate and address quality issues; professional and accountable.
• Basic to intermediate computer skills (Microsoft Office; ERP experience a plus).
• Detail‐oriented with strong defect detection and analytical skills.
• Self‐motivated, curious, and proactive problem‐solver.
• Strong interpersonal skills; able to work collaboratively with cross‐functional teams.
• Confident yet professional when calling out quality issues on the production floor.
• Strong communication, both written and verbal.

What Success Looks Like

• QA activities executed effectively and consistently.
• Early escalation of risks and resolution of issues.
• Smooth operations in the QA team with reinforced SOP adherence.
• Positive collaboration with Operations and leadership teams.
• Competitive market salary (specific range to be shared with qualified candidates).
• Potential performance‐based bonus.
• Standard benefits package; minimum 2 weeks vacation, increasing with tenure.
• Opportunity to grow within a collaborative, hands‐on environment.

Why Join

• Be part of a growing Canadian manufacturing organization with high standards of excellence.
• Hands‐on role with real impact on production quality.
• Mentor and shape junior QA staff while developing your leadership skills.
• Work in a collaborative, flat‐structured company that values accountability and continuous improvement.