Quality Control Chemist - Food Safety & Analytics

Kelly Science, Engineering, Technology & Telecom; Richmond (VA); On-site; Full time

Job description

The Quality Control (QC) Technician is responsible for conducting laboratory testing, production monitoring, and quality inspections to ensure raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods meet company quality, food safety, and regulatory standards. This role supports compliance with GMP, SQF, HACCP, and internal quality systems while helping maintain the highest standards of product quality and food safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform analytical testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products using standardized laboratory procedures.
• Conduct quality tests including pH, turbidity, Brix, salt concentration, alcohol, total nitrogen, microbiological sampling, and related analyses.
• Perform routine production quality checks and report non-conformances or variances to management.
• Support production by conducting inspections before, during, and between product runs.
• Monitor sanitation and employee hygiene practices in compliance with GMP and food safety standards.
• Prepare samples for external laboratory testing and track results for accuracy and compliance.
• Place products on hold and release products according to established company procedures.
• Maintain ingredient documentation and supplier quality records.
• Organize and maintain laboratory documentation including SOPs, logs, charts, forms, and testing records.
• Perform calibration, verification, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.
• Monitor and maintain laboratory inventory and supplies.
• Assist the QC Manager with customer quality issues, audits, and special projects.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and maintain a strong commitment to quality and food safety.

Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in a science-related field preferred.
• 1–2 years of experience in the food, beverage, or manufacturing industry preferred.
• Knowledge of GMP, HACCP, SQF, and food safety practices preferred.
• Familiarity with laboratory safety procedures and handling of hazardous materials.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to work independently and follow written procedures accurately.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Ability to work flexible schedules, overtime, and weekends as needed.
• Comfortable working in environments with allergens including soy, wheat, peanut, sesame, and mustard.
• Ability to wear required PPE including hearing protection, safety glasses, steel-toe/slip-resistant footwear, gloves, hair/facial coverings, and company uniforms in compliance with GMP standard.