Food Safety and Quality Manager

Position Overview UP Vertical Farms, a pioneering leader in sustainable vertical farming and agri-technology, is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Food Safety & Quality Manager to lead and oversee all aspects of the company’s food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance programs. This role is critical in ensuring that all products meet UP Vertical Farms’ rigorous internal standards as well as applicable federal and provincial regulatory requirements before reaching customers. The Food Safety & Quality Manager is responsible for the development, implementation, monitoring, and continuous improvement of food safety systems, quality management programs, and sanitation protocols across all production, harvesting, and packaging operations. This is a Full-Time position within the Food Safety & Quality Department, working closely with Operations and Grow/R&D teams. The position reports to senior leadership, with a work schedule that includes weekdays, evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays depending on operational needs. Work is performed in a climate-controlled indoor vertical farming facility and office environment. Performance is evaluated based on regulatory compliance, audit outcomes, effectiveness of quality systems, team leadership, and contribution to organizational objectives. About UP Vertical Farms
- UP Vertical Farms is a pioneering Canadian leader in sustainable indoor agriculture, combining over a decade of innovation in agri-technology, automation, and environmentally responsible food production. We grow premium leafy greens year-round in a fully controlled, soil-free environment that uses 99% less water and zero pesticides.
- Our mission is to redefine how fresh food is grown and delivered; locally, sustainably, and efficiently. Through advanced vertical farming systems, we supply consistently high-quality produce to grocers and consumers across Western Canada.
- As a growing and collaborative team, we take pride in our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and community impact. At UP Vertical Farms, every role contributes to building a cleaner, smarter, and more resilient food system for the future Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- UP Vertical Farms is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace that reflects and respects the communities we serve. Guided by the principles of Human Rights, we ensure that all individuals are treated with dignity and free from discrimination based on race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital or family status, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other protected characteristic. We believe that embracing different perspectives strengthens our team, drives innovation, and allows every employee to reach their full potential in a safe, supportive, and respectful environment. Duties and Responsibilities 1. Food Safety & Quality Leadership
- Develop, implement, and maintain the company’s Food Safety and Quality Management Systems (FSQMS).
- Ensure full compliance with applicable legislation, including the Safe Food for Canadians Act and Regulations, Food and Drugs Act, and relevant provincial requirements.
- Act as the primary liaison for regulatory bodies, third-party auditors, and certification programs (e.g., CanadaGAP, GMP, PrimusGFS).
- Lead internal and external audits, including preparation, execution, and corrective action follow-ups. 2. Program Development & Compliance
- Design, implement, and continuously improve SOPs related to food safety, sanitation, quality assurance, and traceability.
- Oversee HACCP plans, environmental monitoring programs, and pathogen testing protocols.
- Ensure all documentation, records, and certifications are accurate, complete, and audit-ready.
- Manage test-and-hold programs and product release procedures. 3. Quality Assurance & Control Oversight
- Oversee quality control processes at all stages: production, harvesting, packaging, and distribution.
- Establish and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to food safety and quality.
- Analyze data trends (e.g., shelf life, microbiological results, environmental testing) and implement corrective and preventive actions.
- Ensure proper calibration and functionality of all testing and measuring equipment. 4. Team Leadership & Training
- Supervise, train, and evaluate Food Safety & Quality staff and ensure proper implementation of SOPs.
- Provide ongoing coaching and education to all departments on food safety, sanitation, and quality standards.
- Foster a strong culture of food safety awareness and accountability across the organization. 5. Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Operations, Production, and Sanitation teams to identify risks and implement solutions.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and operational efficiencies.
- Participate in production plann