Food Safety Coordinator

Job Title: Food Safety Coordinator
Company: Steinbeck Country Produce
Location: Salinas Valley, CA (seasonal travel to Yuma, AZ and Oxnard, CA as needed)
Job Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

Steinbeck 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 Responsibilities

• Conduct daily field and harvest crew audits to verify compliance with food safety policies and procedures
• Perform and document pre-harvest risk assessments and environmental evaluations
• Monitor and enforce employee hygiene practices, including handwashing and sanitation protocols
• Verify 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 custody
• Review Certificates of Analysis (COAs) to ensure compliance prior to product release and shipment
• Assist with regulatory and customer audits (PrimusGFS, LGMA, FDA, and customer-specific requirements)
• Ensure compliance with traceability requirements (FSMA 204) and proper product identification
• Collaborate with production, harvesting, and cooling teams to maintain food safety standards
• Identify issues in the field and implement corrective actions in real time
• Support training and onboarding of harvest crews on food safety practices

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Agriculture, Biology, Environmental Science, or related field (preferred)
• Strong interest in food safety, agriculture, and regulatory compliance
• Ability to work in outdoor field environments and varying weather conditions
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including early mornings, extended days, and weekends during peak season
• Strong attention to detail, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication skills in both English and Spanish (preferred)
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word)

Preferred Skills & Knowledge

• Familiarity with LGMA, PrimusGFS, or GAPs (Good Agricultural Practices)
• Understanding of microbiological testing and sampling procedures
• Experience with data tracking systems or compliance platforms is a plus

Work Environment & Expectations

• Field-based role requiring daily presence in harvest operations
• Fast-paced environment with a focus on real-time decision making and accountability
• Collaboration with multiple departments including food safety, production, and logistics
• Commitment to maintaining a culture of food safety and continuous improvement

Why Join Steinbeck Country Produce

• Hands-on experience in one of the leading fresh produce operations in California
• Exposure to industry-leading food safety programs and regulatory frameworks
• Opportunity for career growth and advancement within food safety and agriculture
• Work alongside experienced professionals in a dynamic and essential industry