QC Lab Analyst **Entry Level Opportunity**

Actalent is seeking a Quality Control Lab Analyst to support quality testing activities within a GMP-regulated manufacturing environment producing personal care, over-the-counter (OTC), and consumer product formulations.

About the role

In this role, you will perform analytical and wet chemistry testing on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products while ensuring full compliance with FDA and GMP requirements. You will contribute directly to product release decisions, method execution, and validation activities, and collaborate closely with Quality, Manufacturing, and other cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical testing using HPLC, GC, and Ion Chromatography (IC) instrumentation to support product release and quality control decisions.
• Conduct routine wet chemistry and physical testing, including pH, viscosity, density, loss on drying (LOD), color, odor, and appearance measurements.
• Troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation and assist in resolving equipment issues to minimize downtime and maintain testing accuracy.
• Utilize automated laboratory equipment, including autotitrators, to perform precise and efficient analyses.
• Support testing of OTC and personal care products in accordance with applicable quality standards, specifications, and regulatory requirements.
• Document all testing activities accurately and completely in compliance with GMP and FDA requirements, ensuring data integrity and traceability.
• Review analytical results and communicate findings clearly with Quality, Manufacturing, and other cross-functional departments to support timely decision-making.
• Support method execution and validation-related activities as needed, contributing to the development and improvement of analytical methods.
• Participate in cross-training opportunities across analytical, raw materials, and microbiology laboratories to expand capabilities and provide flexible support.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and laboratory safety guidelines at all times while maintaining a clean, organized, and compliant work area.
• Work independently on an off-shift schedule while collaborating effectively with a small team of laboratory colleagues.

Requirements

• Experience performing laboratory testing in a manufacturing, pharmaceutical, consumer products, food, chemical, or related environment, OR formal education or technical training in a scientific discipline.
• Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, or technical training in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Chemical Technology, or a related scientific field.
• Solid understanding of chromatography principles and laboratory instrumentation.
• Ability to follow SOPs and operate effectively within a GMP-regulated environment.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills for laboratory methods and instrumentation.
• Ability to work independently on an off-shift schedule while meeting testing deadlines and quality standards.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional groups.
• Flexible and adaptable approach to changing priorities in a dynamic production environment.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn new techniques and technologies.
• Ability to take direction and work effectively as part of a team in a collaborative quality organization.

Skills

• Hands-on experience with HPLC, GC, and/or Ion Chromatography systems.
• GMP-regulated laboratory experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Experience working in FDA-regulated manufacturing environments.
• Experience with method validation activities, including execution and documentation.
• Microbiology laboratory experience, such as plating, media preparation, or microbial testing.
• Experience in analytical chemistry, wet chemistry, and general laboratory practices.
• Quality control experience within a laboratory or manufacturing environment.
• Collaborative approach to working with cross-functional departments and quality teams.

Work Environment

This is a great entry-level opportunity to build hands-on laboratory experience in a GMP- and FDA-regulated manufacturing environment while learning from experienced professionals. The role includes training, cross-training, and collaboration with a supportive lab team. This position works overnights and is fully onsite in Columbia, MO.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $26.19 - $26.19/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:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital coverage
• 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)