Lab Specialist

SATO America; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

SATO America is seeking a detail-oriented Quality Lab Specialist in Charlotte, NC. The role entails performing laboratory testing of labels, tags, and ribbons while ensuring compliance with ISO 9001 standards. Candidates should have an associate degree and 3-5 years of lab experience, coupled with strong analytical skills. Responsibilities include document maintenance and collaboration across departments to uphold product quality. This position requires onsite presence during normal hours.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent from a two-year college, or 1-3 years related experience.
• 3-5 years of experience in a laboratory testing environment.
• Experience in quality, product validation, or customer-driven quality requirements.

Responsibilities

• Perform and coordinate laboratory testing according to approved protocols.
• Review incoming material documentation and support the Supplier Certificate of Conformance program.
• Maintain calibration schedules and verify equipment condition.
• Provide analytical data to support non-conforming product analysis.
• Collaborate with multiple departments to meet QMS and customer requirements.

Skills

Analytical testing knowledge

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Microsoft Office proficiency

Strong communication skills

Education

Associate degree or equivalent

3–5 years experience in lab testing

Job description

SATO America is seeking a detail‑orientated, service‑focused, Quality Lab Specialist.

At SATO America, LLC our mission is to create new value for our customers through products and services of superior quality and to contribute towards a better and more sustainable world. In over 80 years, SATO has fostered a culture of professionalism and customer‑centric innovation with an unchanging mission of value creation for customers that, in turn, contributes to a more sustainable world. Do you have what it takes to be our customer’s most trusted partner for mutual growth, and always essential in an ever‑changing world? If so, look no further. We have a place for you.

This role will support testing of labels, tags and ribbons.

The Lab Specialist supports product quality, regulatory compliance, and customer satisfaction by performing and coordinating laboratory testing activities. The role ensures lab operations align with the ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and customer requirements. The position supports incoming material verification, product specification support, validation testing, and data‑based disposition of nonconforming product while maintaining calibration, traceability, and laboratory compliance standards.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Laboratory Testing & Compliance

• Perform and coordinate laboratory testing according to approved protocols, procedures, and applicable standards.
• Perform product assessment of labeling performance per requests.
• Perform assessment of products using printing solutions per requests.
• Maintain an inspection‑ready laboratory environment, including documentation and controls consistent with GLP and recognized standards (ISO 17025 principles where applicable).

Incoming Materials & Product Specifications

• Review incoming material documentation (COA/COC) and support the Supplier Certificate of Conformance program.
• Evaluate material test results and support creation/revision of product specifications using data, supplier inputs, and customer requirements.

Calibration, Traceability & Equipment Readiness

• Maintain calibration schedules, verify equipment condition, and ensure traceability to recognized standards with current, accurate calibration records specific to lab
• Support basic troubleshooting and coordinate with equipment manufacturers/service providers as needed.

Nonconforming Product Support

• Provide analytical data to support internal and/or external non‑conforming product and provide a thorough report on analysis
• Support validation and verification studies for new or modified products; analyze data and provide data‑based recommendations.

Documentation & Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Maintain accurate lab records (test records, calibration logs, SDSs, manuals, and compliance documentation) and support document control for lab procedures and work instructions.
• Collaborate with multiple departments not limited to Label Product Management, Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Purchasing, Suppliers, and Hardware division as needed to meet QMS and customer requirements.

QUALIFICATION

Education And/or Experience

• Associate degree (A. A.) or equivalent from two‑year college; or one to three years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience environment required.
• 3–5 years of experience in laboratory testing environment.
• Experience supporting quality, product validation, or customer‑driven quality requirements.
• Experience in label manufacturing, RFID, printing, or related technologies is a plus.

Other Skills and Abilities

• Strong analytical testing knowledge; able to interpret technical data and specifications.
• Strong attention to detail, problem‑solving ability, and sound judgment in conforming/nonconforming decisions.
• Experience with calibration systems and traceability controls.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; comfort working with laboratory documentation and data and presentation of data.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively across functions in a fast‑paced environment.

Physical Demands / Work Environment

• Primarily office and laboratory environment with regular entry into production areas; exposure to manufacturing noise and moving equipment. PPE required.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and perform fine motor tasks.
• Ability to lift up to 30lbs.
• Low travel requirements but may require extra hours based on customer/business demands.
• This position is required to be on‑site during normal hours of operations.

Quality Commitment

This position supports the integrity of the ISO 9001 Quality Management System and contributes to a culture of quality, compliance, and continuous improvement.