Regulatory Compliance Specialist

The Regulatory Compliance Specialist is responsible for reviewing incoming ingredients, components, and preprinted packaging for accuracy as well as verifying and managing product certificates of analysis and letters of certification along with the freezer incubation process. They support the department's objectives by maintaining and utilizing product specification sheets for the product development cycle.

This role reviews co-manufactured items for required labeling, testing, and safe delivery method. The Regulatory Compliance Specialist also reviews reusable products for regulatory compliance and confirms all required testing is conducted and passes Federal and State regulations. Additionally, the role assists with sensory evaluations and kitchen trials as requested and updates and maintains records in the department databases.

Duties and Responsibilities

Major responsibilities of the position are listed below. To perform the job successfully, the individual must be able to execute each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties, assignments, and specific projects may be assigned at the discretion of management.

Develop, review, and approve product information, labels, and packaging materials to ensure compliance with applicable federal and state regulations and relevant certification requirements, including kosher, organic, gluten-free, and similar programs.

Compile, maintain, and manage regulatory documentation databases supporting new product development.

Review and maintain regulatory documentation including specifications, ingredient statements, nutritional analysis, and certifications.

Provide manufacturing and technical regulatory support to internal departments.

Review incoming products and packaging and communicate compliance status.

Recommend procedural updates in response to regulatory changes.

Perform administrative and additional duties as assigned.

The Regulatory Compliance Specialist must demonstrate working knowledge in one (1) of the following categories:

Incoming products

Labeling of internally manufactured items

Labeling of externally manufactured items

The Regulatory Compliance Specialist must also be proficient in at least one (1) WMS system and one (1) regulatory software/database.Education and Experience

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Nutrition, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field preferred.

0-3 years of experience in regulatory compliance, food safety, quality assurance, product development, or a related food industry role.

Internships or relevant coursework may be considered.

Basic understanding of food regulations, food labeling, or quality systems gained through education or experience.

Familiarity with food industry certification programs (e.g., SQF, kosher, organic, gluten-free) preferred but not required.

Experience using standard business software (e.g., Microsoft Office); exposure to ERP or labeling systems is a plus.

Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Knowledge

Federal and state food regulations, including FDA and USDA (as applicable), and related guidance documents.

Food labeling regulations, including ingredient statements, allergen declarations, nutrition labeling, and claims.

Third-party certification program requirements such as SQF, GFSI, kosher, organic, gluten-free, and similar standards.

Food safety principles including GMPs, HACCP, and preventive controls.

Product development and commercialization processes within the food industry.

Ingredient and packaging compliance requirements.

Document control and record retention requirements.

Quality assurance and regulatory documentation practices.

Basic understanding of food manufacturing processes and supply chain operations.

Skills

Regulatory review and interpretation of laws, standards, and guidance documents.

Label review, verification, and approval for compliance and accuracy.

Technical writing and documentation management.

Data analysis and verification of regulatory and product information.

Strong organization and time management in a deadline-driven environment.

Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.

Effective verbal and written communication across cross-functional teams.

Problem-solving and risk assessment capabilities.

Proficiency with enterprise systems such as ERP systems, labeling software, document management tools, and Microsoft Office.

Ability to collaborate with Quality, R D, Operations, Procurement, and external suppliers.

Abilities

Interpret and apply complex regulatory requirements to products, processes, and business activities.

Manage multiple projects and competing priorities effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Identify compliance risks or gaps and recommend appropriate corrective actions.

Work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accuracy and accountability.

Communicate regulatory requirements clearly and effectively to non-technical stakeholders.

Handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.

Adapt to changing regulations, business needs, and production schedules.

Support regulatory audits, inspections, and external inquiries as needed.

Learn, adopt, and apply new systems, tools, and regulatory requirements efficiently.

Physical Requirements

Prolonged sitting or standing while working at a computer or reviewing documentation.

Regular use of a computer, keyboard, and standard office equipment.

Occasional walking through production, warehouse, or storage areas as needed.

Handling and carrying light materials (up to approximately 25 pounds) such as samples, documents, or packaging materials.

Visual inspection of labels, packaging, and documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance.