QC Lead

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: QC Lead – Day Shift

Job Description

The QC Lead oversees laboratory and microbiological analysis to ensure that high-quality beverage products are consistently produced. This role combines hands‑on lab work with floor‑based quality activities, providing well‑rounded experience in food and beverage quality control. The QC Lead serves as a key resource for analytical testing, documentation, and training, helping to maintain strong food safety and quality standards across the production process.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological analysis of products, water, and the production environment to verify safety and quality.
• Conduct taste tests to ensure products meet established flavor and quality standards.
• Accurately collect samples for testing, including energy drinks, sweetener samples, raw water, treated water, sanitation rinse water, and post‑sanitation swabs, while maintaining sample integrity.
• Identify, perform, and document Gluten Free and allergen testing in accordance with product and regulatory requirements.
• Review and ensure batching sheets are completed correctly and within specification before sign‑off.
• Perform product testing on energy drinks and related beverages, including but not limited to CO2, air, volumes, seam checks, pH, brix, flavor, and other parameters as required.
• Conduct Titratable Acidity analysis on products to confirm they meet quality specifications.
• Perform HPLC analysis of products to measure caffeine and preservative levels accurately.
• Ensure accuracy and proper calibration of all measuring and analytical devices used in the lab and on the floor.
• Accurately record, document, and maintain results from product analysis in appropriate logs and systems.
• Prepare and send Certificates of Analysis (COAs) and microbiological reports to customers in a timely and accurate manner.
• Maintain Yield Tracking Analysis to monitor and improve production efficiency and product consistency.
• Update titration folders and microbiology folders for new products and formulas, keeping documentation current and organized.
• Monitor and control reference room samples and product retains to support traceability and quality investigations.
• Ensure product analysis and microbiological plating are performed correctly, consistently, and as required by procedures.
• Oversee the training and onboarding of new Lab Technicians, providing guidance on lab procedures, equipment, and quality standards.
• Perform HPLC preventative maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and train others on proper operation and care of the equipment.
• Create and organize yearly testing folders to support ongoing quality programs and audits.
• Adhere to and comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and quality production standards as outlined in company policies.
• Follow and promote food safety requirements, ensuring all testing and documentation support safe, compliant products.
• Create and update laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to reflect current practices and improvements.
• Ensure all weekly and daily lab duties are completed accurately, on time, and in accordance with established procedures.
• Create production sheets when needed to support batching, testing, and documentation requirements.
• Collaborate closely with other team members to complete the QC workload and maintain quality throughout the production process.
• Demonstrate high accuracy and attention to detail in all testing, documentation, and communication.
• Apply sound reasoning and problem‑solving skills to address quality issues, equipment problems, and process deviations.
• Multitask effectively and manage time efficiently while maintaining composure in a fast‑paced environment.
• Perform manufacturing line audits, line checks, and line…