QC Analyst

Actalent; Missouri; On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a QC Analyst to support quality control testing and laboratory operations. You will evaluate physical and mechanical properties of materials, prepare samples, analyze data, operate testing instruments, and document results to ensure product quality and compliance.

This role offers hands-on experience for early-career scientists, opportunities to work with cross-functional teams, and exposure to quality systems within a manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related scientific discipline.
• Laboratory experience from coursework, internships, or industry.
• Strong documentation and data interpretation skills.
• Familiarity with testing methods and lab best practices.
• Able to communicate technical data clearly.
• Organized, analytical, and problem-solving mindset.
• Proficient with MS Excel and basic software.

Responsibilities

• Perform lab testing on raw materials, in-process materials, and finished products.
• Conduct physical and mechanical property testing (tensile, hardness, viscosity, etc.).
• Prepare samples using standard lab techniques.
• Record data accurately and identify trends or deviations.
• Operate and maintain lab instruments (UTMs, viscometers, microscopes).
• Document testing activities in records and systems.
• Support investigations and root-cause analyses for quality issues.
• Collaborate with Quality, Production, R&D, and Engineering.
• Maintain lab organization and safety compliance.
• Follow safety procedures and regulatory standards.

Skills

Laboratory testing

Documentation

Data analysis

Attention to detail

Microsoft Excel

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field

Tools

Viscometers

Microscopes

Balances

Ovens

Job description

Job Description

The QC Analyst supports quality control testing and laboratory operations by evaluating the physical and mechanical properties of materials used in manufacturing and product development. This role performs laboratory testing, sample preparation, data analysis, equipment operation, and documentation activities to ensure product quality and compliance with established standards. The position offers an excellent opportunity for recent graduates and early-career scientists to gain hands‑on laboratory experience while developing technical expertise in materials characterization, quality systems, and manufacturing support.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory testing on raw materials, in-process materials, and finished products according to established procedures and specifications.
• Conduct physical and mechanical property testing, including tensile strength, elongation, hardness, viscosity, thermal resistance, and related material performance evaluations.
• Prepare samples and test specimens using cutting, molding, conditioning, and other standardized preparation techniques.
• Collect, analyze, and record laboratory data accurately while identifying trends, deviations, or unusual results.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instruments such as universal testing machines, viscometers, ovens, balances, and microscopes.
• Document testing activities, observations, and results in laboratory records and electronic systems.
• Support investigations and troubleshooting activities related to product quality, manufacturing processes, or material performance.
• Collaborate with Quality, Production, R&D, and Engineering teams to support product development and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain laboratory organization, equipment, and test materials in accordance with quality and safety standards.
• Follow all laboratory safety procedures, chemical handling requirements, and applicable regulatory or industry standards.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Biology, Physics, Engineering Technology, Environmental Science, or another related scientific discipline.
• Laboratory experience obtained through academic coursework, undergraduate research, internships, co-ops, or industry experience.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately document laboratory activities and test results.
• Basic understanding of scientific testing methods and laboratory best practices.
• Ability to collect, interpret, and communicate technical data.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within a collaborative team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience performing physical property testing, materials characterization, quality control testing, or manufacturing laboratory work.
• Experience operating laboratory equipment such as viscometers, testing machines, microscopes, balances, ovens, or related instrumentation.
• Familiarity with ASTM, ISO, GMP, or other quality standards.
• Experience using laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or other electronic laboratory databases.
• Exposure to manufacturing, chemical, coatings, adhesives, polymers, plastics, composites, or industrial products.
• Experience analyzing experimental data and supporting troubleshooting or continuous improvement efforts.

Key Competencies

• Laboratory Operations
• Quality Control Testing
• Data Collection & Analysis
• Technical Documentation
• Attention to Detail
• Problem Solving
• Instrumentation & Equipment Operation
• Collaboration & Teamwork
• Time Management
• Adaptability
• Safety & Compliance

Work Environment

This position operates primarily within a laboratory environment supporting manufacturing, product development, and quality initiatives. The role requires accurate testing, timely reporting of results, and frequent collaboration with cross-functional teams. Analysts should be comfortable managing multiple priorities, working with laboratory instrumentation, and adapting to changing business needs.

Schedule: Second Shift (3:00 PM - 11:30 PM)

Training Schedule: Initial training will be completed on first shift before transitioning to the regular shift schedule.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to gain hands‑on laboratory and materials testing experience.
• Exposure to advanced testing equipment and analytical techniques.
• Collaborative environment with Quality, R&D, Engineering, and Manufacturin