Job Description:
The Analytical/Quality Lab Specialist performs laboratory testing on industrial chemicals and raw materials used in fertilizer, food-grade, and industrial product lines. This role focuses on quality control and quality assurance testing, documentation, and support for production operations in a regulated manufacturing environment. The position starts on first shift for approximately three months of training and then transitions to third shift.
The Analytical/Quality Lab Specialist performs laboratory testing on industrial chemicals and raw materials used in fertilizer, food-grade, and industrial product lines. This role focuses on quality control and quality assurance testing, documentation, and support for production operations in a regulated manufacturing environment. The position starts on first shift for approximately three months of training and then transitions to third shift.
Responsibilities:
Perform analytical testing on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products for fertilizer, food-grade, and industrial product lines using established standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Conduct laboratory tests including specific gravity measurements, titrations, pH testing, wet chemistry assays, and trace material analysis using AA or HPLC, and other analytical techniques as required.
Act as the receiving point for raw materials by reviewing shipping documentation and Certificates of Analysis (COAs) and verifying them against internal specifications.
Test raw materials as required by QA/QC procedures and release them for use by Production when they meet quality standards.
Issue and review batch records for manufacturing and packaging, ensuring completeness, accuracy, and compliance with quality requirements.
Issue labels and seals as controlled documents, store label stock in a secured area with restricted access, and maintain accurate records of label and seal issuance.
Print and review labels with the Production Supervisor and maintain a detailed log for all issued seals.
Record laboratory results in Excel, upload data to internal databases, and generate Certificates of Analysis (CofAs) for finished products.
Review and test finished bulk products to ensure they meet quality standards before transferring product from the mix tank to storage tanks or packaging containers.
Perform in-process and finished goods testing, including visual inspections and packaging inspections, based on samples pulled by production operators.
Apply and follow Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) regulations and work in alignment with other quality and food safety standards such as SQF and related regulatory frameworks.
Analyze and interpret test results, identify trends or deviations, and communicate findings clearly to production and quality teams.
Collaborate closely with production personnel, communicating via walkie-talkies and in person to coordinate sampling, testing, and product release decisions.
Utilize Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel to manage data, documentation, and communication related to lab and quality activities.
Contribute to problem solving and troubleshooting efforts when test results fall outside of specifications or when process issues arise.
Manage time and prioritize tasks effectively to support staggered shifts and ensure timely testing and release of materials and products.
Essential SkillsBachelors degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline, or equivalent experience.
At least 6 months of experience performing titrations and pH testing in an academic or industry laboratory.
Hands-on experience with titration, pH measurement, wet chemistry techniques, and basic analytical testing.
Experience with testing methodology and the ability to analyze and interpret laboratory results.
Familiarity with quality control and quality assurance practices in a laboratory or manufacturing environment.
Proficiency with Microsoft applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel, for documentation and data management.
Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills in a laboratory or production-support context.
Effective time management and organizational skills to handle multiple tests, samples, and documentation requirements.
Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with colleagues across different disciplines and levels within the facility and corporate functions.
Comfort working with industrial chemicals and following appropriate safety and quality procedures.
Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience working in a regulated manufacturing environment such as GMP, SQF, FAMI-QS, IPEC, or similar quality and food safety frameworks is preferred.
Exposure to HPLC, ICP, AA, or other advanced analytical instruments for trace material analysis is beneficial.
Experience with COA review, batch record review, and raw material, in-process, and final product testing is advantageous.
Experience in quality control or analytical chemistry within fertilizer, food-grade, or industrial chemical products is a plus.
Experience with pipetting and other standard laboratory techniques in an analytical or quality lab setting.
Ability to work effectively in a small quality team with staggered shifts and limited on-site coverage at any given time.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate, compliant documentation and records.
Work EnvironmentThe role is based in a quality laboratory that supports the production of industrial chemicals for fertilizer, food-grade applications, and other industrial products. The position begins on first shift for approximately three months of training, then transitions to either second shift third shift (MondayFriday, 11:00 p.m.7:30 a.m.). The laboratory environment involves routine handling and testing of industrial chemicals, following strict safety, quality, and regulatory procedures. Outside the lab, the area is an active production environment where you will regularly interact with production personnel, including operators and forklift drivers, and communicate via walkie-talkies. The quality team is small, with staggered shifts ensuring that typically one to two technicians are in the lab at any given time. The culture emphasizes a friendly, open, and collaborative atmosphere, with strong exposure to multiple regulatory frameworks and product types, providing broad experience in quality and analytical work.
Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Rosemount, MN.
Pay And Benefits:
The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $25.00/hr.
Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
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)
Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Rosemount, MN.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Oct 23, 2026.
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