Food Science Job at KFC USA
Are you searching for a Food Science Job that combines global impact, food safety expertise, and career growth? KFC is offering an exciting opportunity for a Food Safety Analyst based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This role stands out among the top Jobs in USA for professionals in food science, quality assurance, and food technology. Through KFC Careers, this position offers a rewarding job opportunity for life science graduates looking to work on food safety strategy, supplier quality, and global food standards across Latin America and the Caribbean.
About KFC
KFC is one of the most recognized quick-service restaurant brands in the world. Founded in the United States, the brand operates in more than 150 countries and is part of the Yum! Brands global restaurant group. Known for its iconic fried chicken recipes, KFC continues to innovate in food safety, quality management, and customer experience. Through KFC Careers, professionals can work on global food safety systems, product innovation, and operational excellence across international markets.
Job Details
- Job Title: Analyst, Food Safety & Quality
- Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States
- Region: Latin America & Caribbean
- Travel Requirement: Approximately 40% (international and domestic)
Role Overview
KFC Latin America & Caribbean is seeking a Food Safety & Quality Analyst responsible for leading the regional Food Safety & Quality (FSQ) agenda. The role focuses on ensuring the highest standards of product safety for consumers while driving long-term FSQ strategy.
The position supports the continuous improvement of KFC products sourced from regional food and packaging suppliers, distributors, and restaurant operations. The analyst will contribute to the development and evolution of food safety and quality management systems, identify and mitigate risks to consumer health, ensure compliance with legal and brand standards, and enhance visibility of FSQ priorities across stakeholders, including franchisees, suppliers, and audit partners.
Key Responsibilities
Supplier Approval & Compliance
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Maintain and strengthen 100% supplier compliance and performance with Yum! FSQA programs.
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Ensure franchise partners and suppliers follow approved practices aligned with brand standards.
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Provide coaching and training on Food Safety & Quality topics when required.
Market & Vendor Support
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Support markets in maintaining the highest levels of food safety and quality across vendors and strategic partners.
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Ensure underperforming suppliers are reaudited within required timelines and corrective action plans are implemented.
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Coordinate audits and local quality assurance evaluations with franchise partners’ suppliers and Yum!-certified audit partners.
Risk Assessment & Continuous Improvement
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Conduct supplier risk assessments based on FSQA program requirements, guidelines, and audit performance.
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Define, track, and implement action plans that drive quality improvement and supplier standardization.
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Collaborate with Yum! functions and franchise partners to promote continuous improvement in food safety.
Program Management & Specifications
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Implement FSQA programs and develop specific processes when needed.
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Create, update, and maintain core product specifications for Yum! products to ensure accuracy and compliance with brand standards.
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Maintain the TrueView Supplier Management system in collaboration with local QA managers, ensuring product specifications and Quality Assurance Programs (QAPs) remain current.
Product Development & Safety
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Provide food safety guidance for new product development and menu introductions.
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Ensure restaurant procedures for new ingredients or products comply with required safety standards.
Data Analysis & KPI Management
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Review market KPIs and cutting reports to ensure corrective actions are applied when risks or gaps are identified.
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Analyze Food Safety & Quality data, identify trends, and collaborate with suppliers to resolve risks or nonconformities.
Operational & Technical Support
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Support operations teams in implementing food safety initiatives at the restaurant level.
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Act as the primary liaison for resolving supplier-related quality issues or technical inquiries.
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Address food safety design risks and update procedures or product specifications when necessary.
Additional Duties
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Lead or support crisis management activities as required.
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Perform additional tasks and ad hoc projects to support regional FSQ initiatives.
Qualifications for Food Safety Analyst
Education
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Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related discipline.
Experience
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Minimum 3–5 years of experience in the food industry, particularly in food safety, quality assurance, or related fields.
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Experience in food manufacturing, including knowledge of production facilities, quality improvement methods, and product development requirements.
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Experience in poultry science is preferred.
Certifications
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Certification in Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) and internal auditing.
Skills and Competencies for Food Science Job
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Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
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Strong problem-solving abilities at a tactical level with sound decision-making skills.
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Ability to work independently and within a team environment with minimal supervision.
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Capability to work effectively under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
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Strong analytical and organizational skills.
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Effective interpersonal, communication, and influencing abilities across multiple levels of the organization.
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Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Language Requirements
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Spanish: Written and spoken proficiency required.
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Portuguese: Considered an advantage.
Compensation
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Salary Range: $89,300 – $131,870 annually
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Additional: Bonus eligibility
