Visual Inspection Lead - Operational Quality

Belcan; Fargo (ND); On-site; USD 34,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Belcan is seeking an Operational Quality Visual Inspection Lead for a 6-month assignment in Fargo, ND. The role focuses on 100% manual visual inspection of filled and sealed drug product vials in a controlled environment, with structured training provided.

Candidates must read procedures, document results in English, and maintain accuracy and consistency. Prior Pharma experience is not required, and the position offers a competitive pay rate and benefits package.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; life science degree preferred.
• Ability to read and understand procedures and maintain accurate records.

Responsibilities

• Complete GMP, GDP, safety and inspection training.
• Perform 100% manual visual inspection of vials using approved lighting.
• Identify and document defects such as particles, fibers, fill-volume concerns, and discoloration.
• Segregate rejected units and maintain clear material status and chain of custody.
• Record inspection results accurately per GDP requirements.
• Support refresher training and ongoing inspection practice.
• When demand is low, assist with approved Drug Product activities.

Skills

Attention to detail

Manual dexterity

Reading procedures

English literacy

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor's degree in life science preferred

Job description

Job Title: Operational Quality Visual Inspection Lead

Location: Fargo, ND

Duration: 6 Months with possible extension

Pay Rate: $ 25.63/hr

“We provide a competitive pay and benefits package. This position is offering a pay rate of $25.63/hr, however, Belcan considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to education, experience, geographic location, and discipline. Benefits offered may include health care, dental, vision, life insurance; 401(k); education assistance; paid time off including PTO, holidays, and any other paid leave required by law.

Job Description:

The GMP Visual Inspector performs 100% manual visual inspection of filled and sealed drug product vials. Using a controlled inspection booth, standardized lighting, and approved techniques, the inspector evaluates each vial for visible particulate matter and container, closure, fill, and cosmetic defects. Nonconforming units are removed, uncertain conditions are escalated, and inspection results are documented when the work is performed. This is a dedicated, full-time inspection role. Previous pharmaceutical or visual inspection experience is not required. Success depends on patience, concentration, consistency, visual attention, and willingness to follow a defined method every time. Structured training and qualifications are provided.

What to Expect:

• This is focused, repetitive, precision work.
• Inspectors spend much of the shift examining small glass vials under controlled lighting, with required eye breaks built into the process.
• Some training products are clear and straightforward.
• Most will be opaque, colored, or visually challenging.
• Accuracy is more important than speed.
• Work in a quiet, controlled environment where distractions are minimized.
• Use the same approved inspection technique consistently throughout the shift.
• Reject defects and route uncertain conditions for further evaluation rather than guessing.
• Handle high-value drug product carefully and maintain accurate reconciliation and documentation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Complete required GMP, GDP, safety, procedure, defect-recognition, and inspection-technique training.
• Successfully complete initial qualification before independently inspecting GMP product and maintain active qualification status.
• Perform 100% manual visual inspection of assigned filled and sealed vials using approved lighting, backgrounds, handling technique, and inspection timing.
• Identify and document visible particles, fibers, fill-volume concerns, container or closure defects, scratches, scuffs, discoloration, and other defined defects.
• Segregate rejected units and units requiring further evaluation while maintaining clear material status and chain of custody.
• Record inspection results accurately and contemporaneously in accordance with GDP requirements.
• Follow required inspection intervals, eye breaks, area controls, gowning, hygiene, and product-handling requirements.
• Support reconciliation of inspected, accepted, rejected, and further-evaluation units.
• Participate in refresher training, requalification, defect-kit activities, and continuing inspection practice as assigned.
• When inspection demand is lower, support approved Drug Product activities such as training, area readiness, defect-kit preparation, inventory, documentation support, or continuous improvement within the employee’s training and authorization.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Bachelor's of Science in life science preferred.
• Ability to read and understand written procedures, follow step-by-step instructions, and complete clear, accurate records in English.
• Basic math skills sufficient for counts, reconciliation, and simple calculations.
• Ability to maintain sustained attention during repetitive, detail-oriented work.
• Reliable attendance and ability to work the assigned first- or second-shift schedule.
• Ability to meet role-specific visual requirements, including 20/20 near visual acuity with or without corrective lenses and the ability to distinguish required colors, as confirmed through the applicable eye examination.
• Ability to handle small glass vials safely and perform fine visual and manual work during scheduled inspection periods.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience is not required.
• Experience in pharmaceutical, medical-device, laboratory, electronics, precision assembly, quality inspection, manufacturing, or other detail-oriented work may be helpful.

Belcan is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, colour, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.