Quality Control Technician

An independent, family-owned business in Philadelphia, I. Rice & Co. has been making quality food products and flavors since 1884. With a passionate community and a diverse range of employment opportunities—from production coordination to warehouse stocking and inventory organization—we offer ample opportunity for personal and professional growth.

About the role

As a Quality Control Lab Technician, you will support laboratory operations, product quality assurance, and production processes. This hands-on position performs laboratory testing on raw materials, in-process products, finished goods, and environmental samples to ensure compliance with food safety, quality, customer, and regulatory standards. The role is ideal for someone who is detail-oriented, adaptable, and interested in supporting quality assurance processes in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine laboratory analyses on raw materials, work-in-process, and finished products.
• Conduct analytical testing including, but not limited to:
  • Brix (soluble solids)
  • pH
  • Titratable acidity
  • Viscosity
  • Specific gravity
  • Color evaluation
  • Product Sensory
• Collect and evaluate production samples according to established sampling plans.
• Perform environmental monitoring and sanitation verification testing.
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Prepare laboratory reagents, standards, and testing solutions.
• Record test results accurately in laboratory databases and quality management systems.
• Assist in product evaluations, shelf-life studies, and validation activities.
• Verify compliance with GMPs, HACCP, SQF, FDA, customer specifications, and internal quality standards.
• Support internal, customer, and third-party audits.
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness and organization.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and root cause investigations.
• Perform additional quality-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 1–3 years of laboratory experience in a food manufacturing environment preferred.
• Knowledge of GMPs, HACCP, SQF, and FDA regulations preferred.
• Associate degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related scientific field preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent mathematical and analytical abilities.
• Ability to interpret product specifications and testing procedures.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks while maintaining accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Work Environment

• Combination of laboratory and production floor settings.
• May require standing for extended periods and lifting materials up to 50 lbs.
• Adherence to safety, quality, and sanitation standards is essential.

Benefits

• Weekly pay with direct deposit.
• Health insurance.
• Various supplemental insurance policies available after 90-day introductory period.
• Life insurance available after completion of 90-day introductory period.
• 401-K retirement plan available after one year of employment.
• Option to participate in uniform program.
• Annual bonus incentives.