QC Analyst **23-26/hr**

About the role

The QC Analyst supports both the Quality Control (QC) Lab and the Feed Lab by performing supplemental product testing and feed sample analysis to handle increased sample volumes. This role focuses on wet chemistry, general laboratory testing, and feed analysis while strictly following GMP and GDP guidelines to ensure accurate, reliable data and timely reporting.

Responsibilities

• Perform wet chemistry and general laboratory product testing in the QC Lab, including sieve analysis, thin layer chromatography, and loss on drying using vacuum ovens.
• Conduct high-throughput testing, completing approximately 12 to 16 tests per day, while managing weighing and sample preparation for materials ranging from 50 mg to 1 g.
• Accurately document all product testing results in a lab notebook, adhering to GMP and GDP documentation standards.
• Receive and log feed samples in the Feed Lab, ensuring proper tracking and chain of custody.
• Carry out sample preparation for feed analysis, including grinding, weighing, and solution preparation.
• Analyze customer feed samples using HPLC, column chromatography, and UV-Vis techniques in accordance with established procedures.
• Record feed analysis results following GMP guidelines and report final results to leadership in a clear and timely manner.
• Manage a typical feed sample load of approximately 16 samples per day, with flexibility to handle increased volumes during busier periods such as late summer.
• Follow all established procedures, systems, and methods without making unapproved process changes, ensuring consistency and compliance.
• Collaborate effectively with both a small team in the Feed Lab and a larger QC team, contributing to a positive and cooperative work environment.
• Learn new methods, instruments, and workflows quickly, applying training to maintain high testing throughput and quality.
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness and organization, including proper handling of glassware and samples as needed.

Requirements

• Hands-on experience with wet chemistry and general laboratory testing techniques.
• Proficiency in sieve analysis, thin layer chromatography, and loss on drying (LOD) using vacuum ovens.
• Ability to perform high-throughput testing, managing 12 to 16 tests per day while maintaining accuracy and quality.
• Strong documentation skills, with the ability to record data in lab notebooks in full compliance with GMP and GDP standards.
• Experience with feed sample preparation, including grinding, weighing, and solution preparation.
• Practical experience analyzing samples using HPLC, column chromatography, and UV-Vis.
• Understanding and application of GMP guidelines in a QC laboratory environment.

Qualifications

• BS in Chemistry (ACS-accredited degree) with hands-on undergraduate research experience, preferably involving column chromatography, HPLC, or UV-Vis, or up to 6 months of experience in a QC lab (for the first position).
• BS degree in a scientific discipline with 1–2 years of demonstrated QC experience in a GMP environment using HPLC/Empower, sieve analysis, or loss on drying (LOD) (for the second position).
• Ability to quickly learn new procedures and work effectively as part of both small and larger laboratory teams.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work smoothly with colleagues and fit seamlessly into existing teams.

Skills

• Undergraduate research experience in analytical or organic chemistry, particularly involving column chromatography, HPLC, or UV-Vis, is highly beneficial.
• Prior experience in a QC lab setting, even up to 6 months, is valued for the first position.
• 1–2 years of QC experience in a GMP environment with HPLC/Empower, sieve analysis, or loss on drying is preferred for the second position.
• Familiarity with Empower software for HPLC data acquisition and analysis is an advantage.
• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed procedures and established systems without introducing unauthorized process changes.
• Ability to thrive in both small, focused lab teams and larger QC groups, contributing positively to team dynamics.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data integrity and regulatory compliance.
• Adaptability to fluctuating workloads, particularly during busier periods such as late summer.
• Motivation to gain additional experience in QC and analytical testing, with interest in building a career in laboratory quality control.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $26.00/hr. Individual compensation offered within this range will depend on qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Benefits

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may include the following:

• Medical, dental, and vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
• Opportunity to gain valuable industry experience over a defined contract period, including eligibility for six paid holidays during the contract.

Schedule

This is a Contract to Hire position based in St. Louis, MO. The role is fully onsite.