Quality & Laboratory Specialist

Job description

BASIC FUNCTION Based at the USAZ production facility, the Quality & Laboratory Specialist plays an important role in supporting laboratory operations, product quality, and quality system activities. This position combines hands-on laboratory testing with coordination of key quality and laboratory processes to help ensure products consistently meet specification, customer requirements, and regulatory standards. The role supports production, continuous improvement initiatives, quality compliance activities, and the overall effectiveness of the laboratory function. Operating within a manufacturing environment serving industrial, food-grade, and pharmaceutical applications, the position requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively across multiple departments. RESPONSIBILITIES Laboratory Operations and Testing Perform routine laboratory testing of raw materials, in-process materials, and finished products. Support production through timely and accurate testing and reporting of results. Maintain laboratory records and ensure the integrity and traceability of test data. Assist with production batch release activities and related documentation. Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment as required. Maintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, and compliance with established procedures. Provide back-up support for laboratory activities as needed. Laboratory Programs and Coordination Coordinate and maintain laboratory testing programs, including: Stability Testing TMYM and OVI Testing ICH Q3D Testing External laboratory testing activities Coordinate laboratory cleaning schedules. Support calibration and preventative maintenance programs for laboratory equipment. Coordinate laboratory waste management with approved third-party vendors. Maintain retain samples and related testing programs. Quality Systems and Compliance Assist with maintaining quality management systems and laboratory documentation. Support SOP creation, review, and updates. Assist with internal GMP audits and compliance activities. Participate in investigations, corrective actions, and continuous improvement projects. Support customer complaint investigations and follow-up activities. Help ensure compliance with applicable food, pharmaceutical, customer, and quality standards. Support audit readiness and regulatory compliance activities. Laboratory Inventory and Equipment Management Monitor inventory levels of laboratory supplies, chemicals, reagents, and consumables. Coordinate ordering and replenishment of laboratory materials. Maintain laboratory equipment records and calibration status. Support equipment servicing and vendor coordination activities. Data Management and Reporting Support administration and maintenance of LIMS and laboratory data systems. Ensure laboratory data is accurately entered, reviewed, and maintained. Assist with quality reporting, KPI tracking, and trend analysis. Maintain accurate records in accordance with company standards and regulatory requirements. Training and Technical Support Support laboratory-related training activities and onboarding of personnel. Promote compliance with laboratory procedures and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP). Assist in sharing best practices and technical knowledge within the laboratory and quality teams. Serve as a resource for laboratory processes, testing methods, and quality requirements. Health, Safety, Environment and Quality Perform all work in compliance with health and safety, environmental, and quality standards. Maintain safe laboratory practices and promote a strong safety culture. Support site quality objectives and continuous improvement initiatives. Ensure adherence to standards supporting industrial, food, and pharmaceutical production. QUALIFICATIONS Education Associate's Degree, Technical Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biology, Laboratory Science, Quality Management, Chemical Technology, or a related field. Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered. Experience 3 to 5 years of laboratory, quality control, quality assurance, or related manufacturing experience. Experience within food, pharmaceutical, chemical, mineral processing, or similarly regulated industries preferred. Experience working with laboratory equipment, quality systems, and technical documentation. Experience with LIMS or similar laboratory management systems is considered an asset. Knowledge and Skills Strong understanding of laboratory operations and analytical testing. Familiarity with quality systems, documentation control, and continuous improvement principles. Knowledge of GMP, GLP, HACCP, ISO, or similar quality standards is considered an asset. Strong organizational and time management skills. Excellent attention to detail and data accuracy. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Proficient with Microsoft Office and laboratory information systems. Ability to communicate effectively with employees at all levels of the organization. Team-oriented with the ability to collaborate across multiple functions. Working Conditions Combination of laboratory and manufacturing environments. Exposure to production areas, industrial equipment, chemicals, dust, and noise. Regular movement between laboratory and production areas. Occasional lifting and handling of laboratory samples and materials. Other Requirements Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement. Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high level of accuracy. WHY JOIN OMYA Join a global leader in mineral-based specialty solutions. Work in a quality-focused environment serving industrial, food, and pharmaceutical markets. Develop technical expertise across laboratory operations, quality systems, and manufacturing processes. Contribute directly to product quality, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives. Be part of a collaborative team committed to safety, quality, and operational excellence.