Laboratory Quality Assurance Specialist - Dartmouth

AGAT Laboratories Ltd.; Dartmouth; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Paid vacation

Sick leave flexibility

EAP

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Professional development

Job summary

AGAT Laboratories in Dartmouth, NS seeks a Quality Assurance Specialist with strong QA experience to ensure quality metrics across the laboratory and region. You will monitor procedures, train staff, and support internal and external audits to maintain accreditation and high standards.

The role emphasizes attention to detail, a disciplined work ethic, and timely completion of tasks within a fast-paced, safety-conscious environment at our Dartmouth location.

Qualifications

• Minimum Science Technical Diploma, BSc, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 2 years laboratory experience.
• Bilingual French/English proficiency an asset.
• Minimum 1-3 years Quality Assurance experience.
• Experience in Environmental Quality, Petroleum Testing, Food Testing, Microbiology, Ecotoxicology, Mining, Rock Properties or related field is a strong asset.
• Experience with international standards (US/TNI accreditations) beyond ISO/IEC 17025.
• Elevated Excel proficiency is a strong asset.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Comply with AGAT Policies, Quality Procedures, and ISO standards applicable to the QA position.
• Create and communicate reports on QA/QC metrics to management.
• Provide training to staff.
• Perform internal audits.
• Participate in external assessments/audits with accreditation/registration bodies/clients.
• Perform scheduled verifications that depts. check balances, weights, thermometers, pipets, etc.
• Participate in professional development and training.

Education

BSc / Science diploma or equivalent

Job description

Your future is bright at AGAT!

At AGAT Laboratories, we are the next step in your career! By joining AGAT, you become part of a dynamic, purpose-driven team that fosters innovation, collaboration, and personal growth. Our dedicated professionals come together every day with passion and determination, leveraging cutting-edge science to deliver solutions that drive progress and create a more sustainable, healthier world.

Summary:

AGAT Laboratories is currently hiring for a Quality Assurance Specialist. This position will work out of our Dartmouth, NS location.

The Quality Assurance Specialist is responsible for ensuring all quality metrics are met in the laboratory/region in which they work. To accomplish this goal, QA Specialists will have a disciplined work ethic, and a strong sense of duty which allows them to maintain their commitment to following through on tasks and assignments.

By following established policies and procedures, they are required to work at a faster-than-average pace while remaining focused on detailed, specialized work. In summary, the position requires attention to detail, a commitment to high standards of accuracy, and a strong commitment to completing tasks on time.

What you will be doing:

• Comply with AGAT Policies, Quality Procedures, and ISO standards applicable to the Quality Assurance position
  • Creating and communicating reports on QA/QC metrics to the management team
  • Providing training to staff
  • Performing internal audits
  • Participating in external assessments / audits with accreditation / registration bodies /clients
  • Perform scheduled verifications that all depts. perform checks of balances, working weights and thermometers, pipets, etc.
  • Participating in professional development and training
• Provide assistance and support for the following
  • Investigation of client complaints and reporting of responses
  • Investigation of Internal Corrective Actions and ensure the remedy is effective
  • Review and updating of the measurement uncertainty data collected for technical methods
  • Writing, revision and control management of procedures and associated documents
  • Assist in the management of the external calibration program and laboratory proficiency testing activities
  • Implementing corporate standardized and regional policies and procedures
  • Development and validation of local technical methods
• Be a strong proponent for risk-based thinking and improvement initiatives
• Provide technical and advisory support on matters related to the QMS
• Act in a safe and professional manner and wear appropriate attire including the required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Report any unsafe condition(s) observed during the dispensation of their duties
• Perform other duties as assigned by management

What you bring to the table:

• Minimum Science Technical Diploma, BSc, or equivalent experience
• Minimum 2 years laboratory experience
• Bilingual French/English proficiency an asset
• Minimum 1-3 years Quality Assurance experience
• Experience in Environmental Quality, Petroleum Testing, Food Testing, Microbiology, Ecotoxicology, Mining, Rock Properties or related field is a strong asset.
• Experience with international standards (i.e. US/TNI accreditations) beyond ISO/IEC 17025
• Elevated Excel proficiencya strong asset
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Capable of working in an organized fashion to complete tasks with a high degree of accuracy
• Experience managing complex projects and work under pressure to meet tight deadlines
• Ability to conduct training sessions or presentations for large groups of employees or clients
• Competent in reviewing analytical procedures and practices
• Proficient in writing reports and work instructions that are clear, concise, and accurate
• Confident in computer usage and applications
• Petroleum lab experience an asset

Work Environment:

• General office environment with some exposure to laboratory environment.
• Sitting for prolonged periods of time in an office setting.
• Compliance with established safety procedures and appropriate PPE.
• Manual dexterity is required.
• Exposure to excessive noise, dust and/or varying temperatures is rare.
• May require the ability to lift and carry up to 10 pounds.

Why Join Us?

At AGAT Laboratories, we recognize and value our employees by offering a competitive benefits package, including:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision care.
• Paid vacation and flexible sick time.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Long-term disability and life insurance.
• Professional development opportunities.

Who We Are:

AGAT Laboratories is a premier full-service laboratory operating at the cutting edge of science and innovation across North America. Our expertise spans geochemistry, biochemistry, chemistry, microbiology, geology, and engineering, enabling us to deliver comprehensive analytical solutions. These services drive progress in industries such as Mining, Environmental, Energy, Transportation, Industrial, Agri-Food, and Life Sciences.

We pride ourselves on our state-of-the-art technology, diverse expertise, and commitment to providing precise, timely, and reliable results. Beyond our technical excellence, AGAT Laboratories believes in the power of strong client relationships, fostering trust and collaboration to ensure mutual success.

Our Commitment to Community and Philanthropy:

At AGAT, we strive not only to advance science but also to make a positive impact in our communities. The AGAT Foundation is at the heart of our philanthropic efforts, supporting initiatives that improve education, environmental stewardship, and community well-being.

Through partnerships with local organizations, volunteer activities, and donations, the AGAT Foundation champions programs that inspire future generations, promote sustainable practices, and provide support to those in need. Whether funding scholarships, participating in environmental cleanups, or supporting health and wellness initiatives, AGAT is deeply invested in giving back.

Our work extends beyond the laboratory—we’re committed to creating a brighter future for our employees, clients, and the communities we serve.