QC Lead - Days

Actalent; Minnesota; On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a QC Lead – Day Shift for our Minnesota beverage production facility. The role blends hands-on laboratory work with floor quality activities to uphold safety and product quality across production.

You will lead analytical testing, ensure GMP compliance, train Lab Technicians, and maintain thorough documentation, COAs, and batch records to support audits and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• AA/BA/BS in Biology, Chemistry or related field.
• Minimum 2 years in food quality or beverage QC.
• Lead or oversight experience in lab or quality role.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological analysis of products and environment.
• Conduct taste tests to verify flavor and quality.
• Document and maintain QC records and COAs.
• Oversee training of new Lab Technicians.
• Ensure GMP compliance and proper calibration of devices.
• Prepare certificates of analysis for customers.

Skills

Quality control

Lab oversight

Analytical testing equipment

Training staff

GMP knowledge

Education

AA/BA in Biology or Chemistry or related field

Tools

HPLC

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: QC Lead – Day Shift

Job Description

The QC Lead oversees laboratory and microbiological analysis to ensure that high-quality beverage products are consistently produced. This role combines hands‑on lab work with floor‑based quality activities, providing well‑rounded experience in food and beverage quality control. The QC Lead serves as a key resource for analytical testing, documentation, and training, helping to maintain strong food safety and quality standards across the production process.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological analysis of products, water, and the production environment to verify safety and quality.
• Conduct taste tests to ensure products meet established flavor and quality standards.
• Accurately collect samples for testing, including energy drinks, sweetener samples, raw water, treated water, sanitation rinse water, and post‑sanitation swabs, while maintaining sample integrity.
• Identify, perform, and document Gluten Free and allergen testing in accordance with product and regulatory requirements.
• Review and ensure batching sheets are completed correctly and within specification before sign‑off.
• Perform product testing on energy drinks and related beverages, including but not limited to CO2, air, volumes, seam checks, pH, brix, flavor, and other parameters as required.
• Conduct Titratable Acidity analysis on products to confirm they meet quality specifications.
• Perform HPLC analysis of products to measure caffeine and preservative levels accurately.
• Ensure accuracy and proper calibration of all measuring and analytical devices used in the lab and on the floor.
• Accurately record, document, and maintain results from product analysis in appropriate logs and systems.
• Prepare and send Certificates of Analysis (COAs) and microbiological reports to customers in a timely and accurate manner.
• Maintain Yield Tracking Analysis to monitor and improve production efficiency and product consistency.
• Update titration folders and microbiology folders for new products and formulas, keeping documentation current and organized.
• Monitor and control reference room samples and product retains to support traceability and quality investigations.
• Ensure product analysis and microbiological plating are performed correctly, consistently, and as required by procedures.
• Oversee the training and onboarding of new Lab Technicians, providing guidance on lab procedures, equipment, and quality standards.
• Perform HPLC preventative maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and train others on proper operation and care of the equipment.
• Create and organize yearly testing folders to support ongoing quality programs and audits.
• Adhere to and comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and quality production standards as outlined in company policies.
• Follow and promote food safety requirements, ensuring all testing and documentation support safe, compliant products.
• Create and update laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to reflect current practices and improvements.
• Ensure all weekly and daily lab duties are completed accurately, on time, and in accordance with established procedures.
• Create production sheets when needed to support batching, testing, and documentation requirements.
• Collaborate closely with other team members to complete the QC workload and maintain quality throughout the production process.
• Demonstrate high accuracy and attention to detail in all testing, documentation, and communication.
• Apply sound reasoning and problem‑solving skills to address quality issues, equipment problems, and process deviations.
• Multitask effectively and manage time efficiently while maintaining composure in a fast‑paced environment.
• Perform manufacturing line audits, line checks, and line inspections to verify adherence to quality standards.
• Maintain thorough documentation of QC checks, laboratory activities, and manufacturing line audits.
• Perform all other quality‑related duties as assigned to support lab operations and production quality.

Essential Skills

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree (AA or BA/BS) in a scientific discipline such as Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in food quality or food and beverage quality control.
• Demonstrated experience in quality control within a manufacturing or laboratory environment.
• Previous lead or oversight experience in a lab or quality role, including training and guiding other staff.
• Strong knowledge of analytical testing equipment and methods, including calibration and routine maintenance.