Quality Assurance Director

Cannabis ChemLab; Flandreau (SD); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

401(k) matching

Flexible schedule

Paid time off

Job summary

Cannabis ChemLab seeks a detail-oriented Quality Assurance Director to lead QA/QC in our analytical labs across SD and MN. You will ensure ISO 17025 compliance, manage QMS documentation, conduct audits, and drive continuous improvement in testing procedures.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years in regulated labs, strong data integrity skills, and the ability to coordinate training and external audits. Travel between sites is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field, advanced degree preferred.
• 5+ years in QA/QC in regulated laboratory environments (cannabis/pharma).
• Strong knowledge of ISO 17025, GLP, and regulatory requirements.
• Experience implementing QMS, document control, auditing and CAPA processes.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain QMS per ISO 17025, GLP, and regulations.
• Establish and manage document control for SOPs, protocols and forms.
• Coordinate staff training to ensure compliance with QMS.
• Conduct internal audits and drive CAPA actions.
• Serve as primary contact for external audits and inspections.
• Oversee QA/QC activities: proficiency testing, method validation, calibration.
• Ensure data integrity and secure electronic records management.
• Drive continuous improvement using data-driven analysis.
• Proficiency in molecular biology and/or chemistry techniques.
• Collaborate across teams with strong analytical and math skills.

Skills

QMS development

Documentation control

Training delivery

Internal audits

External audits

Quality control

Data integrity

Continuous improvement

Lab techniques

Data analysis

DEA/regulatory knowledge

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in science

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Quality management software

Document control systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Company Description

Cannabis ChemLab is a dedicated organization committed to ensuring the safety, compliance, and quality of cannabis products through comprehensive laboratory testing and analysis. We specialize in helping clients adhere to regulatory requirements while maintaining the highest product standards. Based in Flandreau, SD and Hutchinson, MN, our work fosters trust and safety within the dynamic and rapidly growing cannabis industry. We are passionate about setting new benchmarks for quality and compliance.

Role Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Quality Assurance Director to join our analytical and research team. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in supporting various laboratory functions, including running instruments, collecting data, and ensuring compliance with DEA , Department of Health regulations, and ISO 17025. This position requires a strong foundation in laboratory procedures, quality assurance and an eagerness to contribute to innovative research development. Cannabis ChemLab has two locations, one in South Dakota and one in Minnesota. The ideal candidate would be comfortable traveling between labs and delegating to support staff. Relocation assistance is not available.

Responsibilities

• Quality Management Systems: Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive qualitymanagement systems (QMS) in accordance with ISO 17025 standards, Good LaboratoryPractices (GLP), and regulatory requirements.
• Documentation Control: Establish and manage document control procedures for the creation, review, approval, distribution, and archiving of standard operating procedures (SOPs), protocols, forms, and other quality documents.
• Training and Education: Coordinate training programs and initiatives to ensure that laboratory personnel are adequately trained and competent in performing their duties in compliance with QMS requirements.
• Internal Audits: Conduct regular internal audits to assess the effectiveness of QMS implementation, identify areas for improvement, and address non-conformities through corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
• External Audits: Serve as the primary point of contact for external audits and inspections by regulatory agencies, accreditation bodies, and clients, facilitating the audit process and addressing findings and recommendations.
• Quality Control: Oversee quality control activities, including proficiency testing, method validation, equipment calibration, and proficiency testing, to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and consistency of testing results.
• Data Integrity: Implement and enforce policies and procedures to ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and security of laboratory data, including electronic records and data management systems.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance laboratory processes, systems, and performance, leveraging data-driven analysis and best practices.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and procedures relevant to molecular biology and/or chemistry.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to analyze complex data sets effectively.
• Solid mathematical skills for accurate calculations related to experiments and data analysis.
• Familiarity with research laboratory environments and best practices for research development.
• Knowledge of DEA and Department of Health regulations governing laboratory operations is a plus.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with colleagues.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field (e.g., chemistry, biochemistry, biology), advanced degree preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in quality assurance or quality control roles, preferably in a regulated laboratory environment (cannabis or pharmaceuticals).
• Strong knowledge of ISO 17025 standards, GLP, and regulatory requirements for laboratory operations.
• Experience in developing, implementing, and maintaining quality management systems (QMS), including document control, training, auditing, and corrective action processes.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented mindset with a focus on accuracy, precision, and compliance in all aspects of quality assurance and quality control activities.
• Proficiency in quality management software, document control systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Education

• Bachelor’s (Required)

Experience

• Laboratory: 3 years (Required)

Security clearance

• Confidential (Required)

Work Location

In person

Must pass a background check