QA - Analytical Micro Lab Technician I

About the role

Are you a detail-oriented lab professional who thrives in a fast-paced quality environment? Schwan Cosmetics USA is looking for an Analytical/Micro Lab Technician I to join our Quality Assurance team. In this hands-on role, you'll use cutting-edge analytical instruments to test and approve products — from raw materials to finished goods — ensuring every product meets the highest standards of quality and safety.

Responsibilities

• Routine Lab Testing (65%)
  • Perform chemical, sensory, and instrument-based testing on bulk production batches, raw materials, work-in-process (WIP), and finished goods
  • Use mechanical and electronic equipment to identify product imperfections and nonconformities
  • Make approval/rejection decisions based on client specifications and Schwan Cosmetics quality standards
• Data Analysis & Interpretation (15%)
  • Compile and interpret analytical data from product sample testing
  • Support Product Development with special request analyses
• Continuous Improvement & Calibration (15%)
  • Participate in LEAN and Kaizen continuous improvement initiatives
  • Apply root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective action processes
  • Conduct scheduled equipment calibration to ensure measurement accuracy
• Other Duties (5%)
  • Perform additional duties as assigned

Requirements

• Lab experience required:
  • Minimum 1 year in an analytical, microbiological, or QA/QC laboratory setting
  • Minimum 2 years of manufacturing or equivalent experience
• High School Diploma or GED (or equivalent work experience)
• Proficiency with common laboratory instruments and testing tools
• Basic chemistry knowledge, math skills, and US-to-metric unit conversion
• Strong English proficiency — reading, writing, and communication
• Must pass a basic color discrimination test

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related science field
• Hands-on experience with HPLC, FTIR, DSC, pH meters, viscometers, micrometers, calipers, hot plates, pull force testing, break strength testing, and/or water titration equipment

Technical Skills & Instrumentation

Candidates with experience in any of the following are strongly encouraged to apply:

• HPLC
• FTIR
• DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimeter)
• pH Meters
• Viscometers
• Melting Point Apparatus
• Micrometers & Calipers
• Pull Force & Break Strength Testing
• Karl Fischer Titration
• Sensory & Visual Inspection

Key Competencies

• Critical Thinking
• Problem Solving
• Attention to Detail
• Data Interpretation
• Team Collaboration
• Clear Communication
• Decision Making
• Equipment Calibration