Quality Control Specialist - Temporary, Part Time

THIS IS A 6 MONTH TEMPORARY POSITION WITH PART TIME HOURS

Position Summary

The incumbent develops, maintains, and communicates laboratory quality control systems by ensuring that laboratory procedures are being performed within specified quality guidelines.

Qualifications Required

The incumbent must have a general knowledge of microbiology or chemistry, generally obtained from a related degree or job experience, to analyze and interpret quality control data accurately. A basic knowledge of food science is necessary to analyze the microbiological or chemical content of food samples. A broad knowledge of laboratory procedures and policies is necessary to develop and maintain appropriate quality control systems and employee training programs. A general knowledge of the Laboratory Information Management System is required to ensure accuracy of client data. A general knowledge of personal computer software and basic data entry skills are needed to generate special reports and calculate quality control results. Physical dexterity is required to prepare plates for sample analysis. The incumbent needs strong analytical abilities to troubleshoot problems and ensure the accurate completion of analysis procedures. Developed interpersonal skills are required to build interdepartmental relationships, and foster a culture that focuses on quality. Planning skills are needed to ensure that analysis tasks are completed in a timely manner. Oral and written communication skills are required to write special reports and work with laboratory personnel on quality issues.

The incumbent frequently makes decisions regarding the accuracy and validity of testing results and the proper means to investigate problems. Recommendations are made to laboratory management regarding changes to procedures or quality control systems. Unique or unusual problems can require the input of laboratory management in order to determine the optimal solution. Standard Operating Procedures and federal guidelines establish standards from which solutions can be implemented. Factual data is used to make recommendations that will affect the efficiency of the work unit. Mistakes are identified and corrected from the recommendation to the supervisor. The decisions of the incumbent will impact the client, the laboratory and the testing procedure.

The incumbent receives general supervision. The incumbent works toward general goals and objectives established by laboratory management. The method of attaining the goals is determined by the incumbent in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures. The assigned tasks must be completed within an established time frame to avoid delay in preparing for audits or submitting results to the client. Inaccurate analysis of results or unsatisfactory documentation of quality control records can strain client relations, jeopardize laboratory certification status, and increase the cost of analysis. The incumbent must ensure that laboratory quality control systems meet applicable Company and regulatory guidelines.

Required skills:

The incumbent analyzes quality control data to ensure that laboratory results are within established quality guidelines. When laboratory results are outside of guidelines, the incumbent must investigate why this is so and develop corrective actions. Data necessary to pinpoint problems is frequently missing and subject to interpretation. Problems can result from faulty testing procedures, improper preparation of the media, cross contamination, and the like. Aseptic techniques must be maintained to prevent contamination which can occur daily and may result in repeating the analysis. The microorganisms do not follow the same pattern continuously and may require testing to be repeated.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Organize, prepare and maintain documentation of laboratory quality control efforts required for audits.

Complete quality control tasks such as pH, total residual chlorine, inhibitory residues, water suitability and others to ensure the laboratory complies with Standard Operating Procedures and applicable state certification criteria.

Track laboratory split sample performance and ensure that split sample results are submitted to appropriate parties as required.

Perform microbiological and chemistry analysis on food samples according to the specifications of the client.

Serve as a liaison between chemistry, microbiology and quality assurance departments.

Inform and train laboratory personnel on quality control systems, correct media preparation, and proper analysis procedures.

Ensure that media and materials are prepared for the next testing sequence.

Set up equipment and materials needed for analysis. Ensure that equipment is correctly calibrated and maintained.

Responsibility and authority, in conjunction with the Quality Manager, Operations Manager or Lab Director, to cease specific analyses under their responsibility when evidence from the quality system indicates the process is not in control and the quality of the results is compromised as a result of the non-conformance.

Maintain knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that is required to complete job responsibilities.

Support corporate quality and continuous improvement process.

This position has the responsibility and authority to initiate action to prevent or minimize departures from the quality system or test procedures. This authority includes addressing resource needs to properly address issues such as client turn-around time requirements, overtime limits, employee turnover, work stoppage and assure the appropriate type and amount of materials are ready and available for use.

Perform other related duties as needed.

Communication

The incumbent has frequent contact with client and laboratory personnel in all departments to coordinate quality control procedures and programs. The incumbent has occasional contact with regulatory officials to obtain information and respond to questions.