Quality Control Lead

Overview

The Quality Control Lead plays a central role in executing and supporting laboratory testing, maintaining critical quality control systems, and ensuring compliance with internal and regulatory standards. This position performs complex analyses on raw materials and production batches, manages ERP data and quality orders, oversees instrument verification and calibration, and maintains product retain programs. The Lead also tracks inventory, ensures readiness of testing solutions and standards, and trains QC staff across all levels.

Acting as a key resource for troubleshooting and method development, this role supports continuous improvement and serves as a functional lead in the absence of QC management.

Perform and document required tests on production batches and raw materials within established timelines. Enter results into the ERP system, validate quality orders (QOs), and ensure timely closure. Audit lab notebooks weekly and conduct regular verifications to ensure accuracy and compliance. Create calibration curves for analytical methods and train QC technicians across all levels. Monitor sample testing progress and coordinate third-party lab submissions as needed.

Conduct advanced troubleshooting to maintain optimal instrument performance, including replacing consumables, cleaning/replacing pumps, and adjusting complex parameters. Collaborate with instrument manufacturers to resolve technical issues efficiently.

Demonstrate mastery in all analytical methods supporting production and raw material testing. Lead instrument verification processes and contribute to the development and refinement of test methods and procedures. Advocate for updates to controlled documents to support QC operations.

Create and manage product retains from bulk and finished goods, ensuring proper cycling and storage. Retrieve samples and coordinate re-evaluation testing as required.

Adhere to ISO Management Systems, Safety Systems, and other regulatory standards. Ensure completion of instrument verifications and support the preventative maintenance program. Fulfill Non-Conformance Report (NCR) and Out-of-Specification (OOS) process requirements.

Perform weekly cycle counts and manage inventory of reagents and consumables. Maintain a database of testing solutions, GC standards, and odor standards to ensure readiness for technician use.

Provide coverage across shifts, including during vacations, overtime, and unplanned absences.

Maintain a clean and organized laboratory environment, ensuring proper storage of reagents and consumables.

Meet regularly with production leads and supervisors to align priorities and foster cross-functional collaboration. Serve as a functional lead in the absence of QC management. Support additional lab tasks and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives under the direction of the Quality Laboratory Manager.

Educational Requirements
:
Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related scientific field.

Experience
:
Three to six years of experience in a laboratory setting, preferably in quality control or analytical testing within a manufacturing or production environment.

Technical Skills

• Mastery in standard laboratory practices and techniques.
• Mastery in chemical analysis, material properties, and quality assurance principles.
• Expertise and understanding of ISO standards and safety protocols in a lab setting.

Soft Skills

• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with keen attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of conveying complex information clearly and concisely.
• Good mathematical skills for accurate data interpretation and analysis.
• Strong proficiency in using computer systems and software applications related to laboratory work, including data entry and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Must wear protective or safety equipment, including lab coats, gloves, and goggles, as required.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, and perform tasks that require bending, crouching, and kneeling.
• Capable of lifting up to 30 lbs. manually and unassisted.
• Ability to operate effectively in a high-pressure environment, managing stress and multitasking efficiently.

Lead 1:
Sunday - Wednesday 2:00pm - 12:00am;
Lead 2:
Wednesday - Saturday 2:00pm - 12:00am