Quality Control Laboratory Technician

Location: Manchester

Department: Quality Control Laboratory

Hours: 06:15 - 18:30, Monday to Thursday (4-day week)

Night Shift Availability Required: 18:30 - 06:15 when required

About the Role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Quality Control Laboratory Technician to join a leading manufacturing business in Manchester.

This role is ideal for someone with laboratory or quality control experience who is looking to develop their career within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Working as part of the Quality team, you will be responsible for carrying out routine testing, releasing finished products, maintaining quality records and supporting production teams to ensure products consistently meet customer and company specifications.

You will play a key role in ensuring quality standards are maintained while working closely with Production, Technical and Development teams.

Key Responsibilities

Quality Control Testing

• Carry out routine laboratory testing on raw materials, in-process samples and finished products.
• Accurately record, analyse and interpret test data.
• Ensure all products meet required internal and customer specifications.
• Release finished products for dispatch once quality requirements have been met.
• Conduct calibration checks and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Assist with basic process or formulation adjustments where required.

Reporting & Communication

• Prepare and issue quality reports to customers.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Escalate non-conformances and quality concerns to Laboratory Management.
• Provide timely feedback to Production teams regarding test results.

Production & Technical Support

• Work closely with Production Supervisors to support manufacturing operations.
• Assist with root cause investigations and corrective actions.
• Support the Technical and Development teams with new product development activities.
• Weigh and mix ingredients for compound development projects when required.

Operational Cover

• Provide cover for Development Technicians and Production Operatives during periods of absence or peak workloads.
• Follow all production, quality and safety procedures.
• Maintain excellent housekeeping standards throughout the laboratory and production areas.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Adhere to all company health and safety procedures.
• Use appropriate PPE at all times.
• Support ISO and customer quality compliance requirements.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities and training programmes.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Previous experience in a laboratory, manufacturing or quality control environment.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to follow technical procedures and work instructions.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Competent with Microsoft Office, including Excel and Word.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Desirable

• Experience within the rubber, polymer, chemical or related manufacturing sectors.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 or similar quality management systems.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and process improvement activities.
• Experience conducting quality testing and product release activities.

Personal Attributes

• Reliable and dependable.
• Proactive and self-motivated.
• Positive, team-focused attitude.
• Flexible and adaptable approach to work.
• Willingness to learn new skills and support different departments.
• Comfortable working in a busy, fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What's on Offer?

• 4-day working week (Monday to Thursday)
• Opportunity to work within a modern manufacturing laboratory
• Ongoing training and development
• Supportive team environment
• Career progression opportunities