Quality Control Specialist

Job Title: Quality Control Specialist 

Location: Barcelona, Spain
Reports to: Director of Quality and Food Safety

Job Type: Full-time

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Overview:

We are a rapidly growing player in the natural private label food industry, dedicated to providing high-quality, organic, and sustainably sourced food products. Our commitment to excellence, innovation, and ethical business practices sets us apart as a key player in the industry.

As we continue to expand our product portfolio and market presence, we are seeking a Quality Control Specialist to join our Barcelona office. This role will be the primary point of contact for raw material documentation, Certificates of Analysis (COAs), sampling activities, and coordination with cross-functional teams to ensure timely batch clearance and uninterrupted operations. Approximately 50% of the role will focus on raw material quality control, including COA management, sampling, testing follow-ups, and supplier communication. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Reports to the Director of Quality and Food Safety.
• Manages raw material quality documentation, including COA collection, review, validation, and record-keeping, ensuring compliance with internal specifications and customer requirements.
• Coordinates raw material sampling and testing with third-party teams and accredited laboratories; track sampling requests, lab results, and follow-ups to support timely batch release.
• Maintains real-time visibility of raw material lot status, including next steps, documentation gaps, and ETAs, providing clear updates to Purchasing, Sourcing, Logistics, and Operations.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for global suppliers regarding COAs, missing information, clarifications, and corrective actions, ensuring timely and accurate responses.
• Uploads and manages COAs in SAP, input testing results, and clear batches in accordance with quality protocols; identifies and escalates SAP issues when necessary.
• Supports quality reporting through KPI tracking, dashboard updates, and basic trend analysis to enable data-driven decision-making. Assists with general QC administrative activities, including documentation management, Finished Goods COA tracking, and maintaining audit-ready records.
• Collaborates cross-functionally with Sourcing, Purchasing, Logistics, Quality, and U.S. facilities to streamline communication, reduce delays, and improve operational alignment.

Qualifications:

• Experience in food, agricultural, or natural ingredient categories strongly preferred.
• Solid understanding of COA components, raw material specifications, and typical quality parameters.
• Microbiology knowledge, including understanding of pathogens vs. general microbiological indicators, and familiarity with chemical parameter requirements.
• Working knowledge of U.S. and EU regulations related to microorganisms, pesticides, and food safety criteria.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills with global teams and external suppliers.
• Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems is an advantage.
• Strong follow-up discipline and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Education and Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in supplier coordination, quality documentation, COA management, or raw material quality.
• Bachelor's in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field. A master's degree is a plus.
• Fluency in English (oral and written), Spanish a plus.

Work environment:

• Remote work available but candidates must be living in close proximity to NSI's office in Barcelona for in-office or in-person meetings.
• Candidates must be flexible in regards to their schedule to accommodate working with an international team
• Willingness and ability to travel as needed.

NSI is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.

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