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Food Quality Control Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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An established international food manufacturing company is seeking a QC candidate. * Required BS degree in a related field * Salary: $23:00/hr. * Full benefit: Medical/Dental/Vision, Life insurance ...

New

QC Technician

Lake Elsinore, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Perform other duties as directed by the QC Manager/Plant Manager 7.- REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION GMP's and Allergen training Minimum of 1 years' experience in Food/Beverage industry preferred Clear ...

By tackling inefficiencies in the food system, our passionate and motivated team of problem solvers ... The Quality Control Lead performs quality checks at all touch-points in the product's journey ...

QC Manager Kelly ® Science & Clinical is seeking a QC Manager for a contract-to-hire position at a ... Monday - Friday 7:30am-4pm Overview Our client is an industry-leading food manufacturing company ...

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By tackling inefficiencies in the food system, our passionate and motivated team of problem solvers ... The Quality Control Lead performs quality checks at all touch-points in the product's journey ...

... food safety guidelines. • Maintains consistent quality standards on all incoming and outgoing paperwork for the product. • Documents Quality Control checks per required guidelines accurately and ...

Strong understanding of food safety principles, quality control principles, methodologies, and techniques. * Proficiency in using various measurement tools, testing equipment, and quality management ...

Completion of Q.C. sheets for each product produced * Line set up: (film, forming and sealing dimension, date stamps, product labels, case end labels, label machine, and box machine) * Assist with ...

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Prepare quality control reports on a daily and monthly basis. * Update Production and Factory ... Conduct food safety and hygiene training and testing for employees. * Determine material ...

In the position of QC Tester, you will be responsible for conducting daily line audits, pulling in ... Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification Food Safety Modernization Act ...

QC Inspector

Riverside, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

Now hiring: QC Inspector in Riverside, CA! Location: Riverside, CA Pay: $18.50-$23.00 per hour ... Experience in cosmetics, pharmaceutical, food, or consumer products manufacturing is a plus.

New

QC Tester

Norwalk, CA · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

In the position of QC Tester, you will be responsible for conducting daily line audits, pulling in ... Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification Food Safety Modernization Act ...

Showing results 21-40

Food Quality Control information

See California salary details

$30.1K

$80.3K

$127.8K

How much do food quality control jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for food quality control in California is $80,259.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,700.00 and $98,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does food quality control do in the food industry?

Food quality control professionals ensure that food products meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards by inspecting ingredients, processing methods, and final products. They use tools like testing equipment and follow strict protocols to identify contamination, defects, or deviations from specifications, helping to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure consumer safety.

How does a food quality control professional typically collaborate with production and R&D teams to maintain product standards?

Food Quality Control professionals work closely with production teams to monitor processes, conduct inspections, and ensure all products meet safety and quality standards. They frequently communicate with Research & Development (R&D) teams to implement new formulations or processes, providing feedback on potential quality or compliance issues. This collaboration ensures that any new products or changes in production maintain consistency, comply with regulations, and deliver the desired taste and safety profiles. Effective teamwork and clear communication across these departments are essential for maintaining high product quality.

What is the difference between Food Quality Control vs Food Safety Specialist?

AspectFood Quality ControlFood Safety Specialist
CertificationsHACCP, SQF, GFSIHACCP, GFSI, ISO 22000
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, laboratoriesRegulatory agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageFood production companies, quality assurance departmentsGovernment agencies, food safety consulting

Food Quality Control focuses on inspecting and testing products to ensure they meet quality standards, while Food Safety Specialists concentrate on implementing safety protocols to prevent contamination and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Both roles are essential in the food industry and often overlap, but their primary focus differs: quality versus safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food quality control professional?

To thrive in Food Quality Control, you need a solid understanding of food safety standards, quality assurance processes, and ideally a degree in food science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, HACCP, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required, along with certifications like SQF or ISO 22000. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These competencies ensure the safety, consistency, and regulatory compliance of food products, which are critical for consumer trust and company reputation.

What does a food quality control professional do?

A Food Quality Control professional is responsible for ensuring that food products meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards throughout the production process. Their duties include inspecting raw materials, monitoring production operations, conducting tests on finished products, and documenting results to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. They work closely with production teams to identify and address quality issues, helping to prevent contamination or defects. This role is essential for protecting consumers and maintaining the reputation of food manufacturers.

How to get into food quality control?

To enter food quality control, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many roles preferring or requiring a bachelor's degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills in inspection, testing, and understanding food safety standards such as HACCP, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Quality Control jobs in California?

The most popular types of Food Quality Control jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Food Quality Control jobs?

Cities in California with the most Food Quality Control job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Quality Control job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,259 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

cGMP Quality Control (QC) Specialist

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$87K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


University Of Southern California rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

99th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the "Trojan Family," which is comprised of the faculty, students and staff that make the university what it is.
USC's Keck School of Medicine, Department of Medicine is seeking a dynamic individual to work on the manufacturing of biologics and drugs for cell and gene therapy of internal/external users in the university's current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) facility. The Quality Control (QC) Specialist is responsible for designing, developing, evaluating, and implementing quality control testing, assays, and procedures for materials and final cell therapy products manufacturing. The position will also be responsible for ensuring consistency with current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) principles.
Job Accountabilities:
  • Supports cGMP manufacturing operations with responsibility for quality control. Performs cGMP batch release testing to ensure pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals are of the highest possible quality before being applied to patients. Writes and reviews qualifications (e.g., installation, operation, performance), facility operation plans and reports, standard operating procedures, and batch records as required. Completes batch record documentation, all appropriate equipment log entries, and cGMP documentation.
  • Operates instrumentation needed for cell and gene therapy manufacturing (e.g., cell counters, bioreactors, centrifuges, biological safety cabinets). Assists in technology transfer of manufacturing processes from pre-clinical into cGMP environment.
  • Provides verification of facility operations and equipment, along with advanced problem-solving, troubleshooting, and consultation support, as needed. Supervises and directs junior staff to achieve project goals. Serves as a resource to cGMP facility management in identifying and assessing the appropriate complement of resources and support needed to successfully implement and execute projects.
  • Maintains confidentiality for patient identification, specimen labeling, and specimen verification during batch testing. Performs duties in a clean room environment, when needed and while fully gowned (e.g., mask, coverall, gloves), following cGMP guidelines and using aseptic techniques. Works with senior staff to ensure facilities' compliance with all applicable regulations.
  • Attends routine meetings with the management team for progress reports on projects, facility needs, and discussion of any other required items. Improves current methods and evaluates innovative techniques in quality control testing for cell therapy and biologics.
  • Promotes an environment that fosters inclusive relationships and creates unbiased opportunities for contributions through ideas, words, and actions that uphold principles of the USC Code of Ethics.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

Successful Candidates Must Demonstrate:
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in biotechnology or closely related field. Demonstrated knowledge of all aspects of biotechnology and cell therapy. Demonstrated passion for solving complex scientific issues. Experience with Food and Drug Administration regulations and clinical trials. Extensive leadership experience.

Salary Range:
The annual base salary range for this position is $87,576.76 - $92,000. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.
*This is a 3-year fixed-term position.
USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.
Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree
Minimum Experience: 3 years
Supervises: May lead one or more employees performing similar work
Minimum Field of Expertise: Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., pharmaceutical, biologics). Three years' experience in cellular or biological manufacturing with quality control responsibilities. Demonstrated knowledge base with Good Manufacturing Practices (e.g., cGMPs, GLPs, GDPs). Experience with standard operating procedures in a cGMP laboratory setting. Demonstrated ability to work as an individual contributor and in a dynamic team environment. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Preferred Education: Master's Degree
Preferred Experience: 5 Years
Preferred Field of Expertise: Biotechnology and life sciences
USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.
We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.
  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:
https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$125114.htmld

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About University of Southern California

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880