Quality Assurance Technician

Tundra Technical Solutions; Runcorn; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Tundra Technical Solutions is partnering with a global beverage manufacturer to recruit a Quality Assurance Technician for their Runcorn site. You will perform laboratory analysis, monitor processes, calibrate equipment, and document results to uphold food safety and quality standards.

The role requires a science qualification, strong analytical skills, and experience with QC testing in a fast-paced setting.

Qualifications

• Science qualification (minimum HNC or equivalent) in Chemistry, Food Science, Biology, or a related discipline.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience using laboratory equipment and testing methods.
• Understanding of quality systems such as HACCP, ISO 9001, GMP, or similar.
• Knowledge of SPC.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good IT skills with quality/ERP systems (SAP advantageous).
• Internal auditing experience.
• Food & Drink or Manufacturing qualification (NVQ Level 2 or equivalent).

Responsibilities

• Carry out routine quality control testing and laboratory analysis on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods.
• Calibrate, maintain, and clean laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
• Record and report analytical results accurately using internal systems.
• Monitor product quality and respond to out-of-specification results.
• Conduct routine process control and quality audits to ensure compliance with quality standards and procedures.
• Maintain laboratory chemicals, consumables, and stock levels.
• Support investigations into quality issues and contribute to root cause analysis and problem-solving activities.
• Identify quality trends and recommend improvements to manufacturing processes.
• Maintain accurate documentation and quality records.
• Work closely with production, engineering, and quality teams to ensure consistent product quality.

Skills

Analytical skills

Laboratory testing

Quality systems (GMP/ISO)

Attention to detail

IT systems (ERP/SAP)

Calibrations

Education

HNC or equivalent in Chemistry, Food Science, Biology

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Statistical Process Control (SPC)

Job description

My client, a leading global beverage manufacturer, is looking for a Quality Assurance Technician to join their team at their Runcorn production site.

This is an excellent opportunity to work within a fast-paced, high-volume manufacturing environment, where you'll play a key role in ensuring products meet the highest standards of quality, food safety, and compliance. Working closely with Production, Engineering, and Quality teams, you'll carry out laboratory analysis, monitor production processes, maintain testing equipment, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Whether you already have experience within the beverage industry or come from another FMCG or manufacturing background, this role offers the chance to develop your skills with a market-leading organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out routine quality control testing and laboratory analysis on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods.
• Calibrate, maintain, and clean laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
• Record and report analytical results accurately using internal systems.
• Monitor product quality and respond appropriately to any out-of-specification results.
• Conduct routine process control and quality audits to ensure compliance with quality standards and procedures.
• Maintain laboratory chemicals, consumables, and stock levels.
• Support investigations into quality issues and contribute to root cause analysis and problem-solving activities.
• Identify quality trends and recommend improvements to manufacturing processes.
• Maintain accurate documentation and quality records.
• Work closely with production, engineering, and quality teams to ensure consistent product quality.

Skills & Qualifications

• Science qualification (minimum HNC or equivalent) in Chemistry, Food Science, Biology, or a related discipline.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience using laboratory equipment and testing methods.
• Understanding of quality systems such as HACCP, ISO 9001, GMP, or similar.
• Knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC).
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good IT skills, with experience using quality or ERP systems (SAP experience advantageous).
• Internal auditing experience.
• Food & Drink or Manufacturing qualification (e.g. NVQ Level 2 or equivalent).

Experience

• Previous experience working in a Quality Assurance or Quality Control role within an FMCG, food & beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical, or manufacturing environment.
• Experience working in a fast-paced production environment.
• Comfortable making decisions and prioritising work under pressure.
• Experience supporting continuous improvement and quality initiatives.

What We're Looking For

• A positive, flexible approach to changing priorities.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Confidence in analysing data and making informed decisions.
• A proactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
• A willingness to learn, develop, and contribute to team success.
• A commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and compliance.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a globally recognised beverage manufacturer where you'll gain valuable experience in a world-class production environment while developing your technical skills and contributing to the production of high-quality products.