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 game-changers and innovators driving sustainability, efficiency, and excellence across 200 countries. Our Lima, Ohio facility embodies our commitment to lean manufacturing, food safety, and world-class performance. We unite diverse teams under shared values to deliver top-quality products while protecting our planet, people, and communities. Join us to be part of a legacy that raises the bar in supply chain and logistics.

Role Overview

The Food Safety & Quality (FSQ) Lead at PepsiCo's Lima, Ohio plant is a pivotal role ensuring unwavering adherence to regulatory, food safety, and food defense standards. This position oversees 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'll lead initiatives for sustainable, world-class food safety performance. If you're passionate about data-driven decisions, audit excellence, and risk mitigation in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, this full-time role offers the chance to impact global brands.

Key Responsibilities

As FSQ Lead, your core duties drive operational excellence:

• Oversee sanitation programs, including performance monitoring, employee training, vendor management, and compliance to Quality & Food Safety standards.
• Leverage data analytics tools to monitor real-time Quality/Food Safety data, identify trends, and implement corrective/preventive action plans.
• Coordinate comprehensive Quality & Food Safety training across all organizational levels at the site.
• Lead risk assessments and analysis in partnership with Sector FSQ teams.
• Manage non-conforming product issues to minimize losses and eliminate future occurrences through root cause analysis.
• Oversee Food Safety Management Systems, including Food Safety, Food Defense, Internal Audits, and Corrective/Preventive Action programs.
• Lead audits such as GFSI, AIB GMP, Regulatory Readiness, and QAS, ensuring cross-functional engagement.
• Manage site Food Safety and Food Defense Plans, including compliance monitoring, updates, and re-analysis.
• Conduct self-inspection audits to evaluate compliance with Regulatory, GFSI, and GMP standards.
• Direct Food Safety & Food Defense Team tasks, training, and corrective action effectiveness verification.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel as PepsiCo's Food Safety & Quality Lead in Lima, Ohio, candidates should possess:

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in Food Safety, Quality Assurance, or related manufacturing roles.
• Deep expertise in HACCP, GMP, GFSI standards (SQF, BRC, FSSC 22000), and Food Defense principles.
• Proven track record in audit management, CAPA processes, and regulatory compliance (FDA, USDA).
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analytics tools for trend identification.
• Excellent leadership and communication abilities to train and influence cross-functional teams.
• Ability to thrive in a high-volume production environment with a continuous improvement mindset.

Preferred: PCQI certification, Six Sigma Green Belt, or experience in beverage/snack manufacturing.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo values its employees with a premium compensation package for the FSQ Lead role:

• Salary range: $80,200 - $134,250 USD annually, based on experience, skills, and location.
• 10% target performance bonus, paid annually based on eligibility.
• Comprehensive health benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Health & Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Accident Insurance, Group Legal, and Life Insurance.
• Generous paid time off, including parental leave, vacation, sick, and bereavement leave.
• Defined Contribution retirement plans with company matching.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within PepsiCo's global network.

Career Growth

At PepsiCo, the FSQ Lead role is a launchpad for ambitious professionals. Gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge food safety systems, cross-functional leadership, and data-driven innovation. High performers advance to Sector FSQ Manager, Plant Quality Director, or corporate supply chain roles. Our think-tank culture fosters continuous learning through training programs, certifications, and mentorship. With operations spanning 200 countries, your career trajectory is limitless—dream globally, act locally.

Why Join Us

Choosing PepsiCo means joining a purpose-driven powerhouse committed to sustainability and innovation. In Lima, Ohio, you'll contribute to brands loved worldwide while upholding the highest safety standards. Enjoy a collaborative environment, competitive pay, and benefits that support your well-being. Be part of history-makers who stretch beyond goals, drive efficiencies, and deliver flawless products to consumers. PepsiCo offers stability, growth, and the thrill of working with global icons.

Role FAQs

What is the work schedule for this role?

Full-time position, typically Monday-Friday with flexibility for audits, incidents, or production needs.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Relocation support may be available; discuss with your recruiter.

What software tools are used?

Data analytics platforms, ERP systems, audit management software, and PepsiCo-specific FSQ tools.

Does this role involve direct reports?

Yes, you'll lead the Food Safety & Food Defense Team and influence cross-functional partners.

How does PepsiCo support professional certifications?

We offer tuition reimbursement and training for GFSI, HACCP, and leadership certifications.