Job at a glance
Job Title: Quality Lab Technician / Research Technician Job Description The Quality Lab Technician / Research Technician performs in‑process inspections and testing of production batches, supports technical laboratory activities, and assists with production operations on the manufacturing floor. This role ensures that batches meet quality specifications, maintains accurate documentation and electronic records, and contributes to a safe, clean, and efficient lab and production environment.
The position involves a mix of laboratory and production work, with approximately 60% of time spent in the lab and 40% on the production floor. Responsibilities Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organized laboratory and work area. Print batch tickets and drum tags for production and ensure they are available when needed. Verify that all batch tickets are completely and accurately filled out. Enter batch information into Word and Excel files and maintain accurate electronic records.
Scan batch tickets and maintain an organized electronic database of production documentation. Perform all required testing for production batches as specified on batch tickets, including viscosity and other quality checks. Issue corrections or adjustments for materials that do not meet viscosity specifications in accordance with procedures. Write and manage hold tickets for nonconforming batches and materials, ensuring proper documentation and communication.
Perform 3-day and 30-day retain viscosity checks and document results. Conduct final inspection of finished goods as needed to verify conformance to specifications. Report production and quality updates clearly and accurately to the next shift’s Lab Technician to ensure smooth handoffs. Operate a forklift as needed after completing required forklift training and certification. Inspect incoming raw materials when required and document inspection results.
Perform dock audits on the production floor to verify compliance with quality and shipping requirements. Support production operations by performing split duties between lab and production (approximately 60% lab and 40% production). Handle mixing, batching, compounding, blending, and chemical handling tasks in accordance with safety and quality standards. Assist with machine operation, material handling, inventory support, and batch production documentation.
Follow all safety protocols, including proper use of PPE and safe operation of equipment and forklifts. Communicate effectively with production, quality, and technical teams to resolve issues and support continuous improvement. Perform physical tasks such as standing for 8–10 hour shifts, walking, climbing ladders and stairs, bending, crouching, twisting, and turning as needed. Move on and off a forklift throughout the shift and assist with cleaning equipment, products, and floors as required.
Participate in overtime and weekend work as scheduled based on business needs. Essential Skills Proficiency using computers, including Word, Excel, and email for data entry and documentation. Strong attention to detail with a high level of accuracy in documentation and testing. Dependable work habits and the ability to collaborate and get along well with others. Excellent problem-solving skills to identify and resolve quality and production issues.
Excellent communication and organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and shift handoffs effectively. Ability and willingness to work on the production floor as well as in the lab. Ability and willingness to operate a forklift after training and certification. Experience with mixing, batching, compounding, blending, and chemical handling in a production or lab environment. Experience with machine operation, quality control, inspection, inventory, material handling, and batch production documentation.
Quality experience of 2+ years is preferred; at least 1+ year of related experience is beneficial. Ability to speak, read, and write English to follow work instructions and