Food Safety Coordinator

Job Title: Food Safety CoordinatorCompany: Steinbeck Country ProduceLocation: Salinas Valley, CA (seasonal travel to Yuma, AZ and Oxnard, CA as needed)Job Type: Full-TimePosition SummarySteinbeck Country Produce is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Food Safety Coordinator to support and enforce company food safety and regulatory compliance programs across field harvest and production operations. This role is ideal for recent graduates or early-career professionals pursuing a career in food safety, agriculture, or quality assurance.The Food Safety Coordinator plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with industry standards such as LGMA, PrimusGFS, and FDA regulations while maintaining the highest standards of product safety and quality from field to customer.Key ResponsibilitiesConduct daily field and harvest crew audits to verify compliance with food safety policies and proceduresPerform and document pre-harvest risk assessments and environmental evaluationsMonitor and enforce employee hygiene practices, including handwashing and sanitation protocolsVerify completion and accuracy of food safety documentation (logs, checklists, audit records)Support microbiological sampling programs, including coordination with third-party labs and maintaining chain of custodyReview Certificates of Analysis (COAs) to ensure compliance prior to product release and shipmentAssist with regulatory and customer audits (PrimusGFS, LGMA, FDA, and customer-specific requirements)Ensure compliance with traceability requirements (FSMA 204) and proper product identificationCollaborate with production, harvesting, and cooling teams to maintain food safety standardsIdentify issues in the field and implement corrective actions in real timeSupport training and onboarding of harvest crews on food safety practicesQualificationsBachelor's degree in Food Science, Agriculture, Biology, Environmental Science, or related field (preferred)Strong interest in food safety, agriculture, and regulatory complianceAbility to work in outdoor field environments and varying weather conditionsWillingness to work flexible hours, including early mornings, extended days, and weekends during peak seasonStrong attention to detail, organizational, and problem-solving skillsEffective communication skills in both English and Spanish (preferred)Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word)Preferred Skills & KnowledgeFamiliarity with LGMA, PrimusGFS, or GAPs (Good Agricultural Practices)Understanding of microbiological testing and sampling proceduresExperience with data tracking systems or compliance platforms is a plusWork Environment & ExpectationsField-based role requiring daily presence in harvest operationsFast-paced environment with a focus on real-time decision making and accountabilityCollaboration with multiple departments including food safety, production, and logisticsCommitment to maintaining a culture of food safety and continuous improvementWhy Join Steinbeck Country ProduceHands-on experience in one of the leading fresh produce operations in CaliforniaExposure to industry-leading food safety programs and regulatory frameworksOpportunity for career growth and advancement within food safety and agricultureWork alongside experienced professionals in a dynamic and essential industry 

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