Raw Material QC Specialist

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented Raw Material Quality Specialist to join a premier manufacturer specializing in liquid and topical product formulations. This role is responsible for overseeing the full lifecycle of incoming raw materials—from initial receipt and physical inspection to testing and final commercial release. You will play a critical role in ensuring all materials meet strict USP, FDA, and internal quality standards, collaborating closely with procurement and manufacturing teams to maintain a compliant and efficient supply chain.

Primary Responsibilities

• Inspection & Sampling: Perform visual inspections of incoming raw materials for physical damage, contamination, or labeling discrepancies. Collect representative samples for quality testing in accordance with company SOPs and regulatory guidelines.
• Testing & Release: Execute material identity tests, interpret data to determine compliance with USP or internal specifications, and manage the physical quarantine/release process to ensure production timelines are met.
• Documentation: Maintain precise, highly organized records for all receipts, test results, COAs, and formal release documentation. Log discrepancies, investigate non-conforming materials, and support regulatory audits.
• Vendor Qualification: Evaluate and recommend raw materials and suppliers based on performance history, quality trends, and risk assessments. Assist in the development, review, and approval of comprehensive raw material specifications.
• Compliance: Adhere to all safety procedures and cGMP/GLP requirements during all material handling and inventory reconciliation workflows.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• Experience: 5+ years of direct experience specializing in raw material receiving, inspection, and supplier qualification within a regulated environment (such as pharmaceutical, biotech, or cosmetic manufacturing).
• Regulatory Knowledge: Strong working knowledge of USP/NF standards, cGMP/GLP environments, and standard FDA and OSHA regulations.
• Systems & Software: Proven experience working with Quality Systems and enterprise ERP platforms (e.g., SAP, Oracle). Strong literacy in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Core Skills: Ability to read and interpret technical documents (SOPs, Batch records), make sound quality judgments independently, and prioritize dynamic workloads efficiently.