Quality Technician

Role details

Position Summary

The Quality Technician performs chemical, physical, and analytical testing of raw materials, in-process materials, and finished products to ensure compliance with customer specifications, regulatory requirements, and company quality standards. This role supports manufacturing operations through accurate testing, data analysis, equipment calibration, documentation, and continuous improvement activities. The position works closely with Quality, Operations, Engineering, and R&D teams to ensure product quality and customer satisfaction.

The Quality Technician will demonstrate strong technical writing skills, the ability to develop and validate laboratory test methods, and a thorough understanding of quality systems applicable to chemical manufacturing environments. The position works closely with Quality, Operations, Engineering, and R&D teams to support product quality, process control, and customer satisfaction.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Laboratory Testing and Analysis

• Perform routine and non-routine chemical, physical, and analytical testing of raw materials, intermediates, finished products, and environmental samples.
• Conduct testing according to approved laboratory procedures, specifications, and industry standards.
• Operate laboratory instrumentation including:
• Viscometers
• Moisture Analyzers
• Tensiometer
• Compression Force Deflection Unit
• Adhesion/Release Testing Unit
• Dropping Point Unit
• Analytical Balances
• Penetration Unit
• Color Spectrometer
• Micrometers/Drop Indicators
• Document and analyze test data accurately and completely.
• Review test results for compliance to specifications and identify out-of-specification conditions.
• Communicate testing results promptly to production and quality personnel.

Test Method Development and Validation

• Support the development, validation, and maintenance of laboratory testing methods and procedures.
• Create standardized work instructions and laboratory operating procedures.
• Support new product introductions by supporting the development and qualifying new test methods.
• Participate in method validation studies and laboratory investigations.
• Evaluate laboratory methods to ensure accuracy, repeatability, reproducibility, and effectiveness.

Technical Documentation and Reporting

• Prepare and maintain laboratory reports, Certificates of Analysis (COAs), validation reports, and technical documentation.
• Utilize strong technical writing skills to develop:
• Test methods
• Specifications
• Work instructions
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Technical reports
• Investigation summaries
• Maintain accurate laboratory records in compliance with quality system requirements.
• Support document control activities and revision management.

Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement

• Verify conformance of materials and products to customer, regulatory, and internal requirements.
• Support investigations related to customer complaints, product nonconformities, and process deviations.
• Participate in root cause analysis activities utilizing methodologies such as:
• 5 Why Analysis
• Fishbone Diagrams
• Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA)
• Support continuous improvement initiatives through data analysis and process optimization.
• Assist with internal audits, external audits, and customer assessments.

Calibration and Equipment Management

• Perform routine equipment calibration, verification, and preventive maintenance activities.
• Maintain calibration records and equipment histories.
• Troubleshoot laboratory equipment issues and coordinate repairs when necessary.
• Ensure laboratory equipment remains compliant with applicable standards and procedures.

Compliance and Safety

• Follow all laboratory safety practices and chemical handling procedures.
• Comply with company Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies.
• Manage chemical waste according to regulatory and company requirements.
• Working knowledge of ISO 9001 quality systems required. Familiarity with IATF 16949, ISO 17025, and Good Laboratory Practices preferred.
• Participate in safety training and risk assessments.

Required Qualifications

Education

• Associate's Degree or Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Chemical Technology, Laboratory Science, or a related scientific discipline required.
• Equivalent technical degree with relevant laboratory experience may be considered.

Experience

• Two years of laboratory experience in a chemical manufacturing, industrial, coatings, adhesives, specialty chemicals, or related environment preferred.
• Experience developing, validating, and implementing laboratory test methods and procedures.
• Experience with analytical and wet chemistry testing techniques.
• Experience working within a formal quality management system.

Technical Knowledge and Skills

• Strong knowledge of chemistry principles, analytical techniques, and laboratory practices.
• Demonstrated technical writing skills with the ability to prepare clear, concise, and accurate laboratory documentation.
• Ability to develop, document, validate, and improve laboratory testing methods.
• Ability to interpret technical specifications, customer requirements, standards, and test procedures.
• Knowledge of statistical analysis and laboratory quality control principles.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Experience using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) preferred.
• Working knowledge of:
• Statistical Process Control (SPC)
• Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA)
• Gauge R&R Studies
• Data trending and analysis

Core Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• High level of integrity and commitment to data accuracy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting automotive, aerospace, or highly regulated industries.
• Knowledge of IATF 16949 Core Tools.
• Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma experience.
• ASQ Certified Quality Technician (CQT), Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA), or similar certification.
• Six Sigma Yellow Belt or higher certification.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a laboratory and manufacturing environment.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Manual dexterity required to operate laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Ability to wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, lab coat, and respirator when required.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Accuracy and reliability of laboratory test results.
• On-time completion of testing activities.
• Compliance with calibration and maintenance schedules.
• Number of testing errors, retests, or documentation findings.
• Timeliness of technical reports and Certificates of Analysis.
• Successful completion of method development and validation projects.
• Audit performance and laboratory compliance metrics.
• Support of customer quality objectives and product release requirements.

This position is critical to ensuring product quality, regulatory compliance, process control, and customer satisfaction by providing accurate laboratory analysis, technical expertise, test method development, and quality support throughout the manufacturing operation.

Travel

Some travel may be expected for this position.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8-hour shifts,

6:00 am – 2:00 pm (First Shift)

2:00 pm – 12:00 am (Second Shift) Second shift works Monday through Thursday

*(Subject to change based on business demands)*

Overtime may be required based on business needs.

EEO Statement

Novagard Solutions is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in its employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age, military and/or veteran status, genetic information, or on any basis which would be in violation of any applicable federal, state or local law.Novagard Solutions will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities or religious needs unless doing so would result in an undue hardship to Novagard Solutions.

Any employee with questions or concerns about this Equal Employment Opportunity Policy and its implementation in the workplace is encouraged to bring the matter to the attention of the Human Resources Department. Novagard Solutions takes this policy seriously and will not retaliate against any employee who, in good faith, raises questions or concerns with respect to equal opportunity or any form of discrimination, or who assists in the investigation of such matters.Employees found to be engaging in conduct in violation of this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination, regardless of whether the conduct violates applicable law.