Quality Control Technician

Job Description

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented Laboratory Operator to support quality control in rubber mixing production. This role is responsible for executing real-time testing and batch validation using our suite of lab equipment, ensuring every compound meets defined specifications before release. This person will work closely with production teams to monitor batch consistency, control deviations, and ensure traceability from lab to line.

Key Responsibilities

In-Process & Final Batch Testing

Perform quality control tests on rubber compounds using the following instruments:

MDR (Moving Die Rheometer) for cure curve analysis.

Mooney Viscometer for viscosity checks.

Tensile Testing Machine for strength and elongation.

Density Scale to verify specific gravity.

Hardness Tester for Shore A/D measurements.

Compression Set Tester for elasticity and set retention.

Analyze results and compare them with specification sheets and customer standards.

Identify and communicate any deviations immediately to QA and Production.

Batch Release & Line Support

Support production Team on setting the machine

Just in time control of the tests progress

Evaluate and release production batches based on lab results.

Support production teams in adjusting process parameters when test results indicate non-conformity.

Ensure test results are properly labeled, archived, and associated with the correct batch.

Data Handling & Reporting

Enter test data into Enterprise (Lab Software), or QA spreadsheets with accuracy and timeliness.

Contribute to SPC (Statistical Process Control) where implemented.

Assist with the creation of Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for finished goods.

Sample Management

Receive, label, and prepare in-process and final product samples.

Maintain retention sample archives and proper sample traceability.

Instrument Maintenance & Calibration

Conduct basic daily checks and scheduled calibrations on lab instruments.

Report malfunctions and support external calibration or service technicians when needed.

Compliance & Safety

Follow and enforce lab SOPs, ISO/IATF 16949 quality systems, and customer requirements.

Maintain high standards of lab safety, PPE usage, and 5S/cleanliness.

Support internal and external audits with documentation and lab traceability data.

Other

Other duties may be added from time to time.

Qualifications

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Vocational or technical diploma in rubber technology, chemistry, materials testing, or related field preferred.

Experience

Minimum 3-4 years of laboratory or production QA experience in rubber, plastics, or industrial materials.

Hands-on experience with at least some of the instruments listed above.

Skills & Attributes

Understanding of rubber compound behavior and test result interpretation.

Familiarity with lab testing procedures, tolerance ranges, and QC limits.

Strong communication skills for interacting with production, QA, and shift leaders.

Proficiency in MS Excel or LIMS systems for data handling.

Working Environment

Laboratory and production floor exposure, occasionally in hot or noisy environments.

Standing, walking), and repetitive tasks expected.

Shift-based work may be required based on production schedules.

Full-time