The Quality Control (QC) Technician performs testing and analytical evaluations on thermoplastic materials, in-process compounds, and finished products to verify compliance with defined quality, safety, and regulatory standards. This position requires hands-on laboratory work, accurate documentation, and close coordination with Production and R&D to maintain product integrity and support continuous improvement.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

This list of duties and responsibilities is not all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities, as management may deem necessary from time to time. 

Testing and Analysis

• Perform routine and non-routine physical, mechanical, and analytical testing on raw materials, in-process compounds, and finished TPE products in accordance with approved Standard Operating Procedures, ASTM, and ISO standards.
•  Evaluate test results against specifications and ensure timely release or disposition of materials.

Equipment Operation

• ·Set up, operate, calibrate, and perform basic maintenance on laboratory and pilot-scale equipment, including viscometers, durometers, FTIR spectrophotometers, analytical balances, ovens, furnaces, lab presses, molding machines, and extrusion equipment.
•  Verify equipment performance and report malfunctions promptly.

Documentation and Data Integrity

• Accurately document test methods, results, observations, and calculations in laboratory notebooks and LIMS systems.
• Maintain full traceability and data integrity in compliance with applicable quality system and GLP/GMP requirements.

Quality Assurance and Compliance

• Identify non-conforming materials and out-of-specification (OOS) results.
• Initiate preliminary investigations, document findings, and escalate issues to supervision as required.
• Support adherence to internal quality standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements.

Troubleshooting and Continuous Improvement

• Participate in root cause analysis activities and assist with corrective and preventive actions (CAPA). 
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives aimed at improving product quality, testing efficiency, and process reliability.

Safety and Housekeeping

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
• Follow all safety procedures, including proper handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and materials.

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with Production, R&D, Shipping, and Quality teams to support production schedules and resolve quality-related concerns.
• Communicate testing results, quality issues, and trends clearly to production floor personnel and leadership.

Ideal Competencies Required for Role

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Technical Competencies

• Proficiency in physical and mechanical testing methods relevant to thermoplastic elastomers (e.g., tensile strength, elongation, specific gravity, hardness, melt flow.
• Working knowledge of laboratory equipment operation and test method execution.
• Strong computer proficiency, including LIMS and Microsoft Office applications.
• Understanding of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) and applicable regulatory standards.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
• Ability to interpret data, identify trends, and recognize out-of-specification conditions.
• Structured approach to troubleshooting and investigation.

Behavioral Competencies

• High attention to detail with a strong commitment to accuracy and data integrity.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to perform in a fast-paced production environment with shifting priorities.

Education and/or Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Materials Science, or related scientific discipline preferred.
• Previous experience in a quality control or manufacturing laboratory environment required.
• Experience within a regulated industry (e.g., plastics, automotive, medical device) strongly preferred.

Physical Requirements

• This position requires walking, sitting or standing to a significant degree.
• You must have the ability to lift and carry 60 pounds. 
• You must have the ability to climb ladders and/or stairs.
• Stooping, crouching, kneeling and bending.
• Handling, feeling, and gripping would be required for some activities.
• Visual and color acuity is required to inspect work completed.
• This role may be subject to internal and external environmental conditions.
• Working in manufacturing, office, and laboratory environments.
• Wearing PPE as required, including, but not limited to, hearing protection, face mask, safety shoes, safety glasses.

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; extreme heat; risk of electrical shock and vibration. The noise level in the work environment varies from loud when in the plant area to quiet in the office area