Quality Assurance Specialist

About HYH America

HYH America Inc. is a U.S.-based subsidiary of hy Co., Ltd., a South Korean leader in fermented dairy, functional beverages, and health-focused nutrition with over 50 years of innovation. Building on hy's legacy of pioneering wellness solutions for millions of households, HYH America represents the company's strategic expansion into the United States market.

More than a product-driven business, HYH America is a purpose-led venture committed to shaping everyday lifestyles. Our mission is to inspire Healthier Habits and Happier Cultures, bringing together thoughtfully crafted wellness products, community, and cultural experiences to create a more balanced and joyful way of living. Through health innovation, authentic collaborations, and culturally relevant engagement, HYH America is redefining how wellness is experienced across America and beyond.

Position Overview

The QA Specialist will play a critical role in ensuring product quality, food safety, and regulatory compliance across all manufacturing operations. This position focuses on in-process quality control, co-packer (OEM) management, and the continuous improvement of quality systems. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver who can identify risks, drive corrective actions, and support successful product launches in a fast-paced, growth-stage environment.

Key Responsibilities

In-Process Quality Control & Continuous Improvement

• Perform in-process quality inspections and ensure compliance with established quality standards
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing processes and product quality
• Establish, standardize, and implement quality criteria consistently across all production sites
• Conduct product safety evaluations and ensure adherence to food safety requirements

Change Management & Risk Analysis

• Perform risk assessments for product or process changes and identify preventive measures
• Support validation of process changes and ensure quality consistency throughout implementation
• Proactively flag emerging risks and drive timely corrective action

Co-Packer (OEM) Quality Management

• Conduct regular audits of co-packers and OEM partners to verify compliance with internal quality standards
• Review and evaluate OEM quality systems and food safety programs
• Ensure ongoing alignment with company expectations and applicable regulatory requirements

COA Review & Data Analysis

• Review Certificates of Analysis (COA) for raw materials and finished goods
• Analyze quality data trends to detect process variability and drive data-informed decisions
• Implement and track corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) to resolution

New Product Launch Support

• Partner with cross-functional teams to support new product launches by verifying formulation accuracy, process conditions, and finished product quality at OEM sites
• Ensure production readiness and full compliance with specifications during initial production runs

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field
• Bilingual fluency in English and Korean (written and verbal)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; comfort working with quality data and reports
• Strong organizational, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy and a willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and remain effective under pressure

Preferred

• 3–5 years of experience in food or beverage quality assurance/quality control
• Experience managing co-packers or OEM manufacturing partners
• Working knowledge of beverage manufacturing processes and quality control methods
• Familiarity with FSMA, HACCP, SQF, or equivalent food safety frameworks
• Experience with CAPA systems and quality management software

Work Environment

This is a fully on-site position based at our Irvine, CA office, Monday through Friday. Occasional travel to co-packer or OEM facilities may be required for audits and launch support activities. The role may also require schedule flexibility to support collaboration with HYH's Korea headquarters across time zones.

Compensation & Benefits

The base salary range for this position is $70,000 – $90,000 per year, commensurate with experience, qualifications, and demonstrated expertise in food and beverage quality assurance.

In accordance with California law (SB 1162), HYH America provides pay transparency for all open positions. Final compensation will be determined based on the candidate's relevant work experience, skill set, and alignment with the role requirements.

HYH America offers a competitive benefits package, including company-paid medical coverage (100% of employee premiums, with 20% employer contribution for eligible dependents), 12 days of accrued PTO per year, and 11 company-designated paid holidays.

Equal Opportunity Statement

HYH America is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.