QA Specialist (Biotechnology)

Quality Specialist (Biotechnology Industry)

Location: Virginia, USA

Position: 1

Duration: Approximately 4 months (Temp-to-Hire)

Onsite Position

Shift: 6 AM – 6 PM (Rotating Schedule: 5 days one week, 2 days the next)

Must be available to work any day of the week

Basic Function

The Quality Specialist is responsible for inspecting and verifying products and production processes across the entire supply chain, from receiving to dispatch. This role ensures adherence to quality standards, procedures, and policies and promptly reports any out-of-specification results or deviations to Quality Assurance (QA) management.

The position requires compliance with SQF, Food Safety Plan (HACCP), Food Quality Plan (FQP), and cGMP standards. Additionally, the specialist ensures that all employees and contractors within the production plant follow established Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and takes corrective action as needed. The role also involves supporting the QA team on special projects as required.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Quality Inspection & Verification

• Conduct detailed inspections of production lines to ensure compliance with quality standards.
• Perform daily checks to guarantee food safety and facility maintenance.
• Verify equipment functionality, including metal detectors, X-ray machines, and scales.
• Review operator paperwork to confirm adherence to quality requirements.

Reporting & Compliance

• Immediately report any deviations to the QA Supervisor with full details.
• Identify and report housekeeping issues that need attention.
• Document all non-compliance issues and ensure corrective actions are taken.
• Utilize computer systems for data entry and tracking of quality results.

Regulatory & Safety Compliance

• Ensure compliance with SQF, HACCP, FQP, FDA, and cGMP standards.
• Perform cleaning verification using ATP and Environmental Monitoring Program (EMP) testing.
• Participate in ongoing training to stay up to date on regulatory requirements.

Production Support & Problem-Solving

• Address and resolve production-related issues within the scope of quality control.
• Work collaboratively with production employees and management to ensure smooth operations.
• Conduct Acceptable Quality Limit (AQL) inspections both on and off the production line.

Other Duties

• Perform additional tasks as assigned by management.

Qualifications

🎓 Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or a related field preferred.
• High School Diploma with 3+ years of experience in the food industry acceptable.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical skills.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently.
• Strong interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration.
• Familiarity with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Test Methods.
• Knowledge of cGMP and Quality Systems.
• Spanish proficiency is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).

Work Environment

• Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts.
• Noise levels range from moderate to loud.
• Work environment can be humid and warm.

This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated quality professional looking to grow within the biotechnology industry! Apply inside the job description with an updated resume!