Quality Control Laboratory Technician

Job Title: Quality Control Laboratory Technician Job Description The Quality Control Laboratory Technician ensures that all finished products meet established quality and safety standards within a food processing and food ingredients manufacturing environment. This role focuses on quality assurance testing of raw materials and finished products, with an emphasis on microbiology, chemistry, and food science.

The technician works primarily on a first-shift schedule and uses laboratory and quality control analysis equipment to support consistent, compliant production. Responsibilities Perform quality assurance and quality control testing on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure they meet established specifications and regulatory standards. Conduct laboratory analyses using wet chemistry, microbiology, and basic chemistry techniques to verify product quality and safety.

Measure and evaluate product viscosity and other physical and chemical properties as part of routine quality testing. Apply principles of food science, biology, and microbiology to assess product quality and identify potential issues. Use quality control analysis equipment and laboratory instruments accurately and safely to perform tests and record results. Document test data clearly and accurately using computer systems and data processing tools, ensuring traceability and compliance with quality procedures.

Support compliance with FDA, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and internal quality assurance standards in all testing activities. Inspect and test raw materials to verify they meet required specifications before use in production. Communicate test results, quality concerns, and nonconformances to appropriate team members in a timely and professional manner. Follow established laboratory protocols, safety procedures, and standard operating procedures to maintain a safe and organized work area.

Assist in troubleshooting quality issues by providing analytical support and participating in investigations as needed. Contribute to continuous improvement of laboratory methods, quality control processes, and documentation practices. Essential Skills High school diploma or GED with 1–2 years of related work experience in a laboratory, quality control, or similar environment. Ability to use quality control analysis equipment and laboratory instruments for testing and measurement.

Foundational knowledge of microbiology, chemistry, biology, and food science as applied to quality control and laboratory testing. Experience performing wet chemistry and analytical testing in a laboratory setting. Understanding of raw materials testing, quality assurance practices, FDA requirements, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Fluency in spoken and written English to read procedures, document results, and communicate findings.

Strong mathematical skills to perform calculations, interpret test results, and handle data accurately. Computer and data processing skills to enter, manage, and analyze quality data in electronic systems. Ability to climb ladders to access work platforms as required by testing or sampling procedures. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds safely as part of routine duties in a production and laboratory environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications Associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field such as food science, chemistry, biology, or a similar discipline is preferred. Prior experience in a food processing or food ingredients manufacturing environment is beneficial. Familiarity with viscosity testing and interpretation of physical and chemical property measurements. Experience working within structured quality systems and adhering to documented procedures and standards.

Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately. Ability to work collaboratively with production, quality, and laboratory teams to support consistent product quality. Work Environment This r