About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is a global leader in the food and beverage industry, renowned for its iconic portfolio of billion-dollar brands including Pepsi, Frito-Lay, Quaker, and Gatorade. As PepsiCo Supply Chain, we are the innovators and game-changers driving sustainability, efficiency, and excellence across 200 countries and territories. Our diverse team unites around shared values of performance, collaboration, and purpose-driven innovation. We dream globally while acting locally, constantly pushing boundaries in lean manufacturing, safety, and process improvement to deliver the best products to customers and consumers worldwide. At PepsiCo, we perform with purpose, strengthening our company through individual and team excellence.

Role Overview

The Food Safety Lead (L08) position at PepsiCo's Houston, Texas facility is a pivotal role within our Supply Chain operations. Reporting to sector leadership, this position ensures unwavering adherence to regulatory, Food Safety, and Food Defense requirements. As the FSQ Leader, you will oversee a comprehensive Food Safety Management System, delivering flawless execution of programs with a continuous improvement mindset. Partnering with Quality, Production, Maintenance, and Warehouse teams, you will champion long-term sustainable practices to achieve World-Class Food Safety performance. This is an opportunity to lead with impact in a dynamic environment committed to innovation and consumer trust.

Key Responsibilities

In this critical role, your responsibilities will include:

• Overseeing sanitation programs, including performance monitoring, employee training, vendor management, and compliance with Quality & Food Safety standards.
• Leveraging data analytics tools to monitor real-time Quality/Food Safety data, identify trends, and implement corrective/preventive action plans.
• Coordinating comprehensive Quality & Food Safety training across all organizational levels at the site.
• Leading risk assessments and analysis in partnership with Sector FSQ teams.
• Managing non-conforming products to minimize losses and drive root-cause elimination.
• Overseeing Food Safety Management Systems, including Food Safety, Food Defense, Internal Audits, and Corrective/Preventive Action programs.
• Leading audits such as GFSI, AIB GMP, Regulatory Readiness, and QAS, while managing outputs effectively.
• Directing Food Safety & Food Defense Plans, including compliance monitoring, updates, and re-analysis.
• Reviewing and ensuring implementation of Sector Food Safety Plans (oPRPs, CCPs, PCs) and Food Defense vulnerability assessments.
• Conducting self-inspection audits and overseeing Food Safety & Food Defense Team tasks.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel as PepsiCo's Food Safety Lead, candidates should possess:

• A Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related discipline; advanced certifications like HACCP, PCQI, or GFSI auditor credentials are highly preferred.
• At least 5-7 years of progressive experience in Food Safety/Quality Assurance within manufacturing, ideally in food & beverage.
• Proven expertise in FSMA, GFSI standards (SQF, BRC, FSSC 22000), GMPs, and audit management.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data tools (e.g., Excel, Tableau) for trend analysis and CAPA development.
• Excellent leadership and communication abilities to train teams and collaborate cross-functionally.
• Knowledge of Food Defense strategies, vulnerability assessments, and regulatory compliance (FDA, USDA).
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume production environment with a continuous improvement mindset.

PepsiCo values diverse perspectives and is committed to an inclusive hiring process. Location-specific skills, experience, and education will influence final compensation.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo offers a robust compensation package for the Food Safety Lead role, including a salary range of $80,200 - $134,250, with an 8% target performance bonus paid annually. Additional perks include:

• Comprehensive health benefits: medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Health and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), accident insurance, and group legal services.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, bereavement, and paid parental leave (subject to eligibility).
• 401(k) retirement savings with company matching.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a global leader.

These benefits support our employees and families, fostering work-life balance and long-term well-being.

Career Growth

At PepsiCo, career progression is a reality for high performers. As Food Safety Lead, you'll gain exposure to sector-wide FSQ initiatives, leadership development programs, and cross-functional projects. Advance to roles like Sector FSQ Manager, Plant Quality Director, or Supply Chain leadership positions. Our think-tank culture encourages innovation, with mentorship, tuition reimbursement, and global mobility opportunities to propel your career forward.

Why Join Us

Join PepsiCo to be part of the world's largest portfolio of beloved brands, where your expertise in Food Safety will directly impact millions of consumers. Work in Houston's vibrant energy hub, contributing to sustainable practices that protect our planet and communities. Enjoy a collaborative culture that values innovation, safety, and excellence, with unmatched stability and growth potential in the food industry.

Role FAQs

What is the work schedule for this role?

This is a full-time position, typically following standard business hours with flexibility for audits, training, and production needs.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Relocation support may be available; discuss with your recruiter during the hiring process.

What certifications are required?

GFSI auditor certification, PCQI, and HACCP knowledge are preferred; PepsiCo provides ongoing training.

How does PepsiCo support professional development?

Through leadership programs, certifications, and career pathing tailored to FSQ professionals.

Is this role remote or on-site?

This is an on-site role at our Houston, Texas facility to ensure hands-on oversight of Food Safety programs.