Quality Control Lead

About This Role

The Quality Control Lead oversees daily laboratory operations, directing lab technicians while performing tests to ensure adherence to quality and food safety standards. This role is crucial for maintaining food product safety and quality, resolving issues, and leading continuous improvement efforts within the laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily laboratory activities, ensuring accurate and timely completion of testing on raw materials, in-process products, and finished products
• Perform microbiological, chemical, and physical tests, interpreting and documenting results according to SOPs
• Train and mentor laboratory technicians on procedures, equipment calibration, and food safety protocols
• Conduct root cause analysis on non-conforming products and implement corrective and preventive actions
• Ensure all laboratory equipment is properly calibrated and maintained in compliance with quality control standards
• Execute internal audit reviews and maintain compliance of laboratory processes with GLP and GMP
• Maintain accurate records of testing results and review essential documentation for operations
• Collaborate with production and quality teams to troubleshoot issues, optimize processes, and ensure product consistency
• Manage lab inventory, ensuring the availability of necessary supplies and materials
• Participate in regulatory and third-party audits, ensuring the laboratory is audit-ready at all times

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 3+ years of laboratory experience (food manufacturing or QC preferred)
• Proficiency in laboratory testing procedures (microbiological and chemical analysis)
• Strong problem-solving skills (root cause analysis, CAPA)
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy in documentation and testing
• Basic math skills
• Intermediate computer skills with Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook and field-specific software

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required. Associate's Degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or related field preferred.
• Minimum three (3) years of laboratory experience, preferably in food manufacturing or quality control required. Supervisory or leadership experience preferred.

Nice to Have

• Associate's Degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or related field
• Supervisory or leadership experience
• Certifications related to laboratory procedures or food safety (e.g., SQF, GMP, GLP, HACCP)

Skills

* Required skills

Benefits

Certifications