Corporate Haccp and Programs Specialist

**CORPORATE HACCP AND PROGRAMS SPECIALIST (12 MONTHS CONTRACT)** Join Team Bento and be a part of our group of companies which operates more than 12000 locations globally. With operations across Canada and United States, Bento brings together a dynamic team of people with diverse backgrounds, experience, and talent, to create an exceptional guest experience. **Location and hours** -** Ontario Food Factory**: 25 Sims Crescent, Unit 1, Richmond Hill, ON L4B 1C9 **Responsibilities** The Corporate HACCP and Programs Specialist is responsible for leading the development, implementation, and maintenance of Bento Sushi’s food safety and regulatory programs across the United States and Canada. This position oversees HACCP plans, prerequisite programs, and SQF certification requirements, while ensuring regulatory compliance with FDA, CFIA, and customer standards. The role provides technical expertise, manages audit readiness, and supports new product launches by maintaining accurate food safety documentation and ensuring adherence to best practices in food safety and quality management. - Lead the development, implementation, and maintenance of HACCP programs/Food Safety Plans in compliance with U.S. and Canadian regulations. - Conduct annual reviews and updates of HACCP plans, QMP/PCP programs, and all food safety documentation. - Develop and maintain food safety process flows and plant floor diagrams for new and existing products. - Oversee corporate food safety programs, including Food Fraud Risk Assessments, Food Defense Plans, Crisis Management, Recall Programs, Allergen Control, and Sanitation. - Manage SQF certification programs, ensuring that all modules, SOPs, and documentation are current and compliant with SQF codes. - Coordinate audit preparation and participation for customer, third-party, regulatory (FDA, CFIA, USDA), and SQF audits; oversee corrective action implementation. - Oversee monthly internal HACCP, GMP, and SQF compliance audits across facilities. - Maintain and update SOP regulations and forms related to new product launches, limited-time offerings (LTOs), and process changes. - Support QA technicians and site personnel with food safety inquiries and program compliance. - Provide technical support for new product launches, including shelf-life validation testing and micro-testing schedules. - Conduct and review mock recalls, trend analysis, and risk assessments. - Deliver internal HACCP and food safety training to associates across the U.S. and Canada; manage training records and compliance with SERV Safe and other certification programs. - Track audit schedules across commissaries; ensure documentation reviews are conducted in alignment with upcoming audit requirements. - Perform special assignments and projects as directed by Senior Manager, QA Systems and Programs. - Oversee other QA programs such as: Labelling, Customer Complaint Management and Supplier Management. **Qualifications** - Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, or related field required from an accredited college or university. - HACCP certification required; PCQI certification strongly preferred. - SERV Safe Food Safety Manager certification or ability to obtain. - Minimum 3-5 years of experience in food manufacturing, with at least 2 years in food safety, quality assurance, or regulatory compliance. - Strong background in HACCP program management, audit preparation, and regulatory compliance in both the U.S. and Canada. - Experience with SQF certification and maintaining GFSI-aligned programs an asset. - Proficiency with Microsoft Office. - Proficiency with food safety documentation systems will be an asset (e.g., SafetyCulture, FranConnect, TraceGains). - Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment while ensuring strict compliance to standards. **Why you should join our team**: - Power of Collaboration: Live our core values - "Own it", "Care about it", "Make it exceptional", and "Win together" - as we work together to create better food for everyone, the Japanese way. - Competitive Rewards: Upon meeting eligibility criteria reap the benefits of a comprehensive compensation package and group health benefits that recognize your outstanding contribution. - Ignite Your Potential: Fuel your growth with extensive training and opportunities for career advancement, empowering you to unleash your full potential. - Champion Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: We are committed to fostering a workplace where diversity, equity, and inclusion thrive, empowering every voice to be heard and celebrated through meaningful initiatives and programs. - Drive Sustainable Impact: As part of our dedication to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, we actively promote sustainable practices and initiatives to create a positive impact on our environment and communities. We are committed to providing accommodations for persons with disabilities. If you require accommodation, we will