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Quality Lab Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Quality Control Technician

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

... associates on QC Test Methods and Equipment Operating Procedures. * May independently investigate and troubleshoot unexpected testing results at the QC and/or Analytical Lab level. * May lead shift ...

Sr. Quality Control Technician

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

... associates on QC Test Methods and Equipment Operating Procedures. * May independently investigate and troubleshoot unexpected testing results at the QC and/or Analytical Lab level. * May lead shift ...

Sr. Quality Control Technician

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

... associates on QC Test Methods and Equipment Operating Procedures. * May independently investigate and troubleshoot unexpected testing results at the QC and/or Analytical Lab level. * May lead shift ...

Showing results 21-40

Quality Lab Associate information

What does a quality lab associate do?

A Quality Lab Associate is responsible for performing laboratory tests and analyses to ensure that products meet established quality standards and regulatory requirements. This role typically involves preparing samples, operating laboratory equipment, recording data, and reporting results to supervisors or quality managers. They may also assist in investigating deviations or non-conformities and help maintain a clean and safe laboratory environment. Quality Lab Associates play a critical role in maintaining product safety and consistency, particularly in industries like pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, or manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a quality lab associate?

To thrive as a Quality Lab Associate, you need a solid background in laboratory procedures, analytical testing, and quality assurance, usually supported by a degree in chemistry, biology, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instruments like HPLC/GC, and relevant certifications such as GMP or ISO standards is often required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication enable you to identify problems, maintain accurate records, and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure the integrity of test results, regulatory compliance, and overall product quality in laboratory environments.

What are some common challenges quality lab associates face when working with cross-functional teams?

Quality Lab Associates often collaborate with production, R&D, and regulatory teams to ensure product quality and compliance. A common challenge in this environment is effectively communicating technical laboratory findings to non-technical stakeholders, which requires clear documentation and presentation skills. Additionally, balancing multiple project deadlines while maintaining strict adherence to quality standards can be demanding. Building strong relationships and understanding the goals of other departments can help overcome these challenges and foster smoother workflows.

What is the difference between Quality Lab Associate vs Quality Control Technician?

AspectQuality Lab AssociateQuality Control Technician
CertificationsOften requires a degree in science or related field; certifications like ASQ are a plusSimilar requirements; certifications like ASQ are common
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, performing tests and analysesLaboratory and production environment, conducting inspections and tests
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food, and biotech industriesCommon in manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and food industries

Both roles involve testing and ensuring product quality, often requiring similar educational backgrounds and certifications. The main difference lies in their focus: Quality Lab Associates typically perform routine testing and data recording, while Quality Control Technicians may also conduct inspections and troubleshoot quality issues on the production line.

What are the most commonly searched types of Quality Lab jobs in California?

The most popular types of Quality Lab jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Quality Lab Associate jobs in California?

For Quality Lab Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Quality Lab Associate jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Quality Lab Associate jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Quality Lab Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Quality Lab Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Quality Lab Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Sr. Quality Control Technician

Avantor Inc.

Carpinteria, CA • On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Avantor rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 100 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

The Opportunity:

At Avantor, people are the most important part of our success because they drive our global performance. That's why our Operations, Lab Services, Sales, and many other Avantor teams rely on our talent acquisition initiatives to attract, engage and hire the right talent. Avantor's Quality control & Validation vertical is a crucial part of this mix, enabling all our internal teams worldwide to grow beyond their limits.

The QC Sr. Technician supports day-to-day manufacturing processes by independently doing hands-on lab duties, including pre-established material qualifications. In specific, running prescribed tests and inspections for releasing materials to the next step in the process. This role also does basic troubleshooting when needed and runs infrequent test as per prescribed methods.

What we're looking for:

  • Education: High School Diploma or GED required. AS in Chemistry (or related field) preferred.
    • Preferred: Six Sigma Yellow Belt
  • Experience: 3+ years of Quality Lab experience if High School Diploma obtained OR + 1 year of Quality Lab experience If AS obtained.
    • Experience handling chemicals safely
    • Experience with basic physical chemistry parameters (pH, pressure, temperature)
    • Experience in a good laboratory practices environment
    • Basic experience using calibrated instruments
    • Experience executing calibrations independently

Preferred:

  • Experience with basic troubleshooting and upkeep of testing instruments (viscosity, pH, and loss on drying.)
  • Experience providing training to other associates on test methods
  • Basic experience under an Organizational Excellence system (e.g., Lean Six Sigma, Toyota System, Avantor Business System)

Who you are:

  • Basic Computer Skills (Teams, Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Basic math and statistics skills.
  • Good communication skills, Time-management skills
  • Preferred: technical writing, critical thinking
  • Team-player: ability to work effectively in a team environment
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to read, understand, and follow procedures
  • Able to work under limited supervision by following clear instructions
  • Proficient in Good Documentation Practices (GDP)
  • Experience in a lab environment

How will you thrive and create an impact:

  • Ensure compliance with company quality standards and industry regulations to maintain quality within the scope of the job description. This includes documentation and reporting.
  • Follows applicable safety procedures.
  • Performs routine cleaning and housekeeping duties ensuring instruments and workstations are clean and properly maintained.
  • Assist with Hazardous Waste disposal, including discarding expired supplies as per SOPs.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Independently performs basic routine testing. This may include: appearance, viscosity, pH, loss on drying, uncured, uncured/mixed, cured, and post cured routine testing.
  • Independently performs routine testing. This may include acid/base titrations, tensile testing, heat/moisture curing, intermediates, final product, and shelf life reinspections.
  • Performs standardized Test Methods for validation purposes.
  • Under supervision investigates unexpected testing results at the QC and/or Analytical Lab level.
  • Updates team on current testing status and instrument readiness during the shift change.
  • Supports laboratory inventory upkeep, ensuring supplies are properly stocked, labeled, and accessible.
  • Login and dispose of retain samples. Keeps the retain sample area clean and organized.
  • Performs daily calibration verifications of testing instruments. This may include GC, GPC, Instron, scales/balances.
  • Provides support with routine testing of materials related to defects, customer complaints, and opportunity analysis projects.
  • Provides support with execution under supervision of non-routine testing of materials related to defects, customer complaints, and opportunity analysis projects.
  • Prepare samples for outside testing by following specified procedures
  • Handles samples from submittal to disposal
  • Handles Test Request samples
  • Perform sample preparation for the testing of samples following approved test method procedures.
  • Works closely with other functional teams and provides Quality technical SME feedback for internal challenges (Ex. Production or development issues).

In addition to:

  • May provide training to other associates on QC Test Methods and Equipment Operating Procedures.
  • May independently investigate and troubleshoot unexpected testing results at the QC and/or Analytical Lab level.
  • May lead shift change meetings and/or present TDM data to the QC team.
  • May ensure logs are completed and conform to GDP.
  • May establish and implement a 6S program, with daily schedule, to ensure best practices for safety, productivity, and cleanliness in the lab space(s).
  • May order supplies and audits laboratory inventory.
  • May create and maintain retain samples inventory schedule based on retain sample disposal date and material availability.
  • May prepare calibration standard solutions for building calibration curves on GC, GPC, UV/Vis, and/or APHA colorimetry. Verifies calibration standards and curves are properly prepared.
  • May generate change orders related to QC (i.e. SOP, TM, EOP, or other relevant documents)
  • May support internal and external audits.
Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Why Avantor?

Dare to go further in your career. Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to overcome challenges relentlessly advances life-changing science.
The work we do changes people's lives for the better. It brings new patient treatments and therapies to market, giving a cancer survivor the chance to walk his daughter down the aisle. It enables medical devices that help a little boy hear his mom's voice for the first time. Outcomes such as these create unlimited opportunities for you to contribute your talents, learn new skills and grow your career at Avantor.
We are committed to helping you on this journey through our diverse, equitable and inclusive culture which includes learning experiences to support your career growth and success. At Avantor, dare to go further and see how the impact of your contributions set science in motion to create a better world. Apply today!

Pay Transparency:

The expected pre-tax pay for this position is

$50,000.00 - $80,500.00

Actual pay may differ depending on relevant factors such as prior experience and geographic location.

EEO Statement:

We are an Equal Employment/Affirmative Action employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province, or local law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at recruiting@avantorsciences.comand let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.

For more information about equal employment opportunity protections, please view the Know Your Rights poster.

Privacy Policy:

We will use the personal information that you have submitted to us in order to consider your application for the relevant role.

Your privacy is important to us. Please click here for our Privacy Policy which explains the purposes for which we will use your personal information and the ways in which we will handle and retain your information. It also explains the rights you have in relation to your information, and how to contact us with any queries or requests.

3rd Party Non-Solicitation Policy:

By submitting candidates without having been formally assigned on and contracted for a specific job requisition by Avantor, or by failing to comply with the Avantor recruitment process, you forfeit any fee on the submitted candidates, regardless of your usual terms and conditions. Avantor works with a preferred supplier list and will take the initiative to engage with recruitment agencies based on its needs and will not be accepting any form of solicitation.


What Avantor employees say

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About Avantor

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Avantor, our ICARE Values are our core set of principles that guide and focus the Company's strategy.: Innovation; customer centric; accountability; respect; excellence! Avantor is committed to creating a fully inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and provides equitable opportunities for all associates to grow and succeed. While setting science in motion our employees can join employee focus groups.

Industry

Chemical manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Radnor, PA, US

Year founded

1904

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