Quality Control Supervisor

LaMotte Company; Chestertown (MD); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

LaMotte Company in Chestertown, MD is seeking a Quality Control Supervisor to lead day-to-day lab operations, perform hands-on testing, and review data with QC technicians to ensure accuracy and compliance. The role conducts coaching, scheduling, and escalation for QC issues while maintaining audit readiness.

Strong SOP and instrument experience are required. The incumbent will oversee QC testing methods, document control, and cross‑functional collaboration with Production and QA to resolve

Qualifications

• Must have strong leadership, QA focus, and ability to train others.
• Experience conducting QC testing and data review under SOPs.
• Knowledge of GMP/quality processes and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Perform QC duties and supervise daily laboratory operations.
• Provide coaching and training to QC Technicians.
• Ensure audit readiness and compliance with GMP and SOPs.
• Prioritize QC activities and assign work across value streams.
• Review batch records, test data, and documentation for accuracy.
• Lead investigations for product quality issues and deviations.
• Maintain equipment, calibrations, and lab cleanliness.
• Support cross‑functional teams with quality input and testing.

Skills

Leadership

QC testing

SOPs

Data review

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma

Associate/Bachelor in science preferred

Tools

Balances

pH meters

Spectrophotometers

Refractometers

Specialized meters

Job description

Quality Control Supervisor

Chestertown, Chestertown, MD, US

Position Summary

The Quality Control Supervisor is a working supervisor responsible for overseeing day‑to‑day laboratory operations while performing hands‑on testing, inspections, and data review alongside Quality Control Technicians. This role ensures that QC activities are completed accurately, on time, and in compliance with documented procedures and quality standards. The QC Supervisor provides scheduling and coverage decisions, performs higher‑level QC tasks requiring advanced competence, trains and coaches QC Technicians, and ensures the laboratory remains audit ready. The Supervisor serves as the primary point of escalation for QC issues and works cross‑functionally with Production, Rand D, Warehouse, and QA to resolve quality concerns. The QC Supervisor is accountable for the accuracy, completeness, and compliance of all QC testing, documentation, equipment checks, and inspections performed by the QC team.

Schedule / Hours

Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:15 p.m.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent; high school chemistry, general lab coursework, or hands‑on lab/production experience required.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in a science field (chemistry, biology, or related discipline) is preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in laboratory testing, inspection, or manufacturing quality control required.
• Prior leadership, team lead, or mentoring experience preferred.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong understanding of laboratory testing methods, measurement principles, and quality standards.
• Ability to read, interpret, and follow SOPs, test methods, and technical documents.
• Proficiency with laboratory equipment including balances, pH meters, spectrophotometers, refractometers, and specialized meters.
• Excellent organizational, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Strong computer skills including use of email, Excel, LIMS, and electronic data systems.
• Ability to coach, train, and develop others.
• Strong communication skills for cross‑functional coordination.

Work Style and Personal Attributes

• Demonstrate leadership, reliability, and professionalism.
• Able to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to integrity.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, move, or transport up to 40 lbs.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive laboratory tasks.
• Ability to wear required PPE, including gloves, safety glasses, lab coat and, as needed, a chemical respirator.

Primary Responsibilities

Working Supervisor Responsibilities

• Perform QC Technician duties as needed to support workflow, staffing shortages, or priority testing.
• Step in to perform inspections, testing, documentation, and equipment checks during high‑volume periods or absences.
• Maintain proficiency in all QC testing areas and serve as the technical escalation point for troubleshooting test or equipment issues.

Quality Operations Oversight

• Prioritize daily QC activities, assign work, and ensure adequate coverage to support all value streams.
• Oversee performance, conduct counseling, and retraining for QC Technicians when needed.
• Approve QC timecards and support accurate labor tracking.
• Attend daily shift huddles to review priorities, communicate expectations, and address team needs.
• Communicate with cross‑functional teams regarding test results, component defects, and quality issues.
• Serve as the first point of escalation for Q team questions or issues.

Documentation and Records

• Maintain and update the TI binder; ensure documents are current and accessible.
• Review and approve technical instructions for accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
• Review batch records and QC documentation for completeness and GMP compliance.

Inspection and Testing

• Perform first‑article inspections for internal products and purchased components.
• Conduct and lead NCM and customer complaint investigations, including pulling retains, performing testing, reviewing data, and documenting results.
• Perform routine data review of QC test results and logs to ensure accuracy and data integrity.

Lab and Equipment Management

• Perform scheduled maintenance of pipettes, refractometers, spectrophotometers, and related lab equipment.
• Run reactions and approve color standards (proof sets) according to documented requirements.
• Perform qualification activities such as spin‑meter qualification for use in QC.
• Ensure inventory of lab tools, chemicals, solutions, and consumables is maintained.
• Oversee lab housekeeping; ensure workspaces are clean, organized, and audit‑ready at all times.
• Ensure proper storage, labeling, and disposal of retains, chemicals, and laboratory waste.

Materials and Waste Control

• Perform hazardous waste disposal and hazardous retain disposal in accordance with safety and environmental procedures.

Production and Rand D Support

• Submit Rand D requests for assistance as needed.
• Respond to requests for QC testing and laboratory assistance.
• Support troubleshooting and production adjustments by providing quality input and recommendations.

Training and Competency

• Provide job‑specific training on test protocols, daily tasks, and laboratory procedures.