Quality Management Research Specialist

North Carolina State University; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 54,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision

Retirement Programs

Paid Time Off

Job summary

NC State University is seeking a Quality Management Research Specialist in Laurel, MD to support the Plant Pathogen Diagnostic Certification Program. You will organize scientific documentation, maintain quality records, and assist with data activities to ensure materials meet established standards and reliability across laboratories.

The role emphasizes attention to detail, scientific knowledge, and collaboration with project leaders to advance diagnostic quality and program effectiveness.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the assignment or equivalent experience.
• Experience with Quality Management Systems (QMS) in lab, manufacturing, or regulatory settings.
• Professional technical writing, editing and proofreading experience.

Responsibilities

• Review, organize, and maintain technical documents, SOPs, and job aids.
• Maintain quality management records and support data activities.
• Assist with plant pathogen diagnostics, certification processes, and program documentation.

Skills

Technical writing

Editing

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Tools

Quality Management Systems (QMS)

Job description

Position Information

Quality Management Research Specialist

Laurel, MD

Monday - Friday / 8am - 5pm

Commensurate with Experience ($54,000 - $56,000)

Job Open Date: 07/28/2026

Earliest Close Date: 08/03/2026

Department

Integrated Pest Management – Research

The Center for Integrated Pest Management (CIPM) was established in 1991 to serve a lead role in technology development, program implementation, training, and public awareness for IPM at the state, regional, and national level. CIPM fosters the development and implementation of pest management programs. CIPM works to support and further Integrated Pest Management through the evaluation of emerging technologies, information management and dissemination, environmental stewardship, estimation of economic consequences, resistance management tools and systems, and integration of disciplinary expertise. The Center manages grants programs for the USDA, develops regional and national priorities through workshops and stakeholder meetings, and develops and maintains large databases and database applications for USDA, EPA, and Ministries of Agriculture in Europe, Africa and the Caribbean.

Wolfpack Perks and Benefits

As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.

Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.

Essential Job Duties

The Research Specialist (Quality Management Support Biologist) supports the Plant Pathogen Diagnostic Certification Program (PPDCP), a collaborative program with USDA APHIS that strengthens the nation's ability to detect and identify plant pathogens that impact U.S. agriculture. Under the direction of the Project Leader, this position provides essential research support through organizing scientific documentation, maintaining quality management records, assisting with data activities, and supporting program processes. Through careful attention to detail and application of basic scientific knowledge, you will help ensure program materials are accurate, current, and aligned with established quality standards. Your work will contribute to the reliability of diagnostic practices and the success of a program that supports plant health and agricultural protection.

Scientific Documentation & Quality Management Support

• Support the review, organization, and maintenance of technical documents, including work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and job aids.
• Assist with updates to scientific documentation to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with established quality management standards.
• Maintain organized records and documentation to support program compliance and operational effectiveness.

Research Program & Laboratory Support

• Provide research support for activities associated with plant pathogen diagnostics, certification processes, and laboratory quality initiatives.
• Apply basic knowledge of molecular and serological diagnostic methods to support technical reviews, literature searches, and program activities.
• Assist with the preparation and organization of reference materials, scientific resources, and program documentation.

Data Management & Reporting Support

• Maintain accurate research records, laboratory documentation, and electronic data files.
• Support data entry, organization, and review activities to ensure information is complete and accessible for program needs.
• Assist with compiling data and reports that support diagnostic certification and quality management activities.

Program Coordination & Operational Support

• Collaborate with project leaders, quality management staff, and subject matter experts to support program priorities and deliverables.
• Utilize established systems and tools to manage documents, records, and program resources.
• Follow laboratory quality, safety, and compliance procedures while contributing to a culture of accuracy and continuous improvement.

About the Opportunity

If you are a detail-oriented researcher who enjoys supporting scientific programs through accurate documentation, data management, and quality-focused processes, we invite you to apply. Join our team and contribute to a program that strengthens plant health protection by supporting reliable diagnostic practices across laboratories.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with Quality Management Systems (QMS), in a laboratory, manufacturing, or regulatory environment.
• Professional technical writing, editing and proofreading experience.

Required License or Certification

• The candidate must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident (green card) and is expected to pass NCSU and USDA background checks. No other emigration statuses are acceptable.
• Valid driver's license or the ability to obtain within 60 days of start.

Valid NC Driver's License required: No

Commercial Driver's License Required? No

Position Details

Position Number: 00112212

Position Type: SHRA

Position Classification Band Title: Research Specialist

Position Classification Band Level: Contributing

Position Classification Salary Range: $ 45,454 - $ 109,409

Salary Grade Equivalency: MH06

If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.

Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week): 1.00

Appointment: 12 Month Recurring

Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather: Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather

Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events: Non Mandatory - Emergency Event

Time Limited Position: No

Time-Limited Appointment Length (if applicable):

Department Id: 113810 - Integrated Pest Management - Research

Equal Opportunity

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity. If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at [phone] or [e-mail]. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.