Quality Assurance Specialist

As the largest pureplay adhesives company in the world, H.B. Fuller’s (NYSE: FUL) innovative, functional coatings, adhesives and sealants enhance the quality, safety and performance of products people use every day. Founded in 1887, with 2025 revenue of $3.5 billion, our mission to Connect What Matters is brought to life by more than 7,100 global team members who collaborate with customers across more than 30 market segments in 150 countries to develop highly specified solutions that enable customers to bring world-changing innovations to their end markets.

About the role

This is a matrixed position supporting Quality, Operations and R&D. The Quality Scientist will serve as the stand-in for the department supervisor for all technical concerns and become proficient in all analytical and R&D lab operations. Responsibilities include leading the ISO9001 internal audit team, performing SPC studies, transitioning to electronic SOP training and tracking, training and completing general lab tech tasks, maintaining quality lab equipment, and filling in for lab techs on off shifts (2nd and 3rd) as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead the ISO9001 internal audit team with guidance from the QA Supervisor.
• Perform SPC studies and work with the quality and operations group to transition to electronic SOP training and tracking.
• Train and complete general lab tech tasks such as inventory movements and batch checking.
• Maintain quality lab equipment and general lab supplies.
• Fill in for lab techs on 2nd and 3rd shifts when needed.
• Manage assets efficiently from environmental, health, safety, and quality perspectives while ensuring high customer service levels and low inventory costs.
• Align continuous improvement initiatives with strategic objectives using Lean, Six Sigma, and Operational Discipline methodologies.
• Drive operational improvements in safety, quality, and productivity to achieve business objectives.
• Promote a "Customer First" mindset and culture through proactive process improvements.
• Comply with all governmental regulations and requirements.
• Exhibit strong influencing skills in a matrix environment, working effectively across geographic and functional lines.
• Serve as a point of contact for customer complaints and complete root cause and corrective actions.
• Engage employees at all levels to foster team building and identify succession plans.
• Demonstrate capability with global ERP/SAP systems.

Requirements

• BS/BA degree required (Chemistry or Engineering degree preferred).
• Knowledge of chemistry and processes involved in manufacturing polymers, UV, and blended solutions is ideal.
• Entry-level or 3+ years of experience with co-op/intern experience in an applicable industry.
• Three years of lab, quality, and/or process manufacturing experience preferred.
• Management of Change process understanding or experience.
• Hands-on analytical lab experience with equipment such as GC, HPLC, FTIR, Viscometer, pH meter, and Gravimetric analysis.
• Effective communication, analytical skills, and general management acumen.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience building BOM and knowledge of chemistry/formula management.
• Knowledge of SAP or similar ERP database management systems.
• Six Sigma certification (Green or Black Belt) or experience in Design for Six Sigma (DFSS).
• Exposure to continuous improvement techniques (TQM, DMAIC, Fault Tree Analysis, FMEA, Lean Manufacturing, 5S, Value Stream Mapping).
• Experience improving process capability and monitoring via Capability Index.
• Experience with adhesives manufacturing or use as a base material.
• Familiarity with Process Safety Management (PSM) requirements.
• Demonstrated business acumen and strategic planning skills.

Physical Environment

• Continuous hearing, frequent talking, sitting, typing, handling, and repetitive motions of hands/wrists.
• Regular standing, climbing ladders/steps, and walking.
• Ability to carry and lift up to 50 lbs, with or without assistance.
• Movement between multiple buildings and work areas throughout the workday.
• Periodic work outdoors in varying weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow).
• Work in warehouse and manufacturing environments with fluctuating temperatures.
• Compliance with all safety requirements while navigating production, warehouse, and office environments.

Pay

The salary for this role is $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 based on experience.

Benefits

• Competitive total rewards package including comprehensive benefits.
• Incentive and recognition programs.
• Health & wellness benefits.
• 401K contributions.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.

Schedule

• 1st Shift: 6:45 AM - 3:15 PM (flexible start/stop time as agreed with QA supervisor).
• 5 days per week (Monday - Friday).
• After-hours calls are possible.
• Occasional coverage for 2nd and 3rd shifts as needed.