Quality Control Analyst - Maryland

Job Title: Quality Control Analyst

Location: Middle, Rivert, MD (On-Site, 5 Days/Week)

Industry: Fragrance / Flavor Manufacturing

Employment Type: Full-Time w/ Benefits

Salary: Up to $85,000 + 5% Bonus

Recruiter: Sole Hire (Confidential Search)

Position Overview:

Sole Hire has been retained to conduct a confidential search for a skilled Quality Control Analyst to join a specialty manufacturing company focused on essential oils, fragrances, and flavors. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical lab experience, excellent attention to detail, and familiarity with testing methods for raw materials and finished goods.

Key Responsibilities:

Perform laboratory testing on incoming raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products

Conduct organoleptic evaluations and record detailed sensory observations

Analyze using Specific Gravity, Refractive Index, Optical Rotation, LAB Color, and Gas Chromatography (GC) / GCMS

Interpret complex GC chromatograms for essential oils and fragrance materials

Assist in root cause analysis of internal and external non-conformances

Support corrective and preventative action plans (CAPA)

Calibrate and maintain lab equipment regularly

Improve and validate new and existing QC procedures

Enter test results into Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

Support production processes and ensure product quality compliance

Create or revise SOPs to improve QC performance and throughput

Requirements

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Food Science, or a related scientific field (Master's preferred)

3-5 years of experience in a laboratory QC or QA role (flavor, fragrance, or essential oils strongly preferred)

Strong knowledge of GC/GCMS instrumentation and data interpretation

Familiarity with industry regulations (e.g., ISO, GMP, FDA)

Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) is a plus

Excellent olfactory skills and product evaluation knowledge

Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)

Skills & Competencies:

Strong attention to detail and data accuracy

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Ability to manage deadlines and prioritize tasks

Professional judgment and analytical problem-solving

Team-oriented and proactive work ethic

Work Environment:

100% on-site role in a lab and warehouse setting

Requires extended periods of computer work, sensory evaluation, and physical movement

Must be able to distinguish odors and conduct sensory-based testing

Additional Information:

Confidential search managed by Sole Hire

Only shortlisted candidates will receive company information

Equal Opportunity Employer

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) with employer match, company-paid disability and life insurance, paid parental leave, generous PTO, and supplemental benefits such as pet insurance, legal/ID protection, and more.