Job Title: Quality Control & Lab Technician
Department: Quality
Reports To: Plant Manager
Location: Stockton, CA
Pay: $26.00/hour
Schedule: Sunday – Thursday, 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Driver's License is required for this role***
Position Overview
The Quality Control & Lab Technician is responsible for performing laboratory testing, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring compliance with product specifications and regulatory requirements in a palm oil refining environment. This role is critical to ensuring product safety, consistency, and quality throughout the production process.
Key Responsibilities
Quality Testing & Analysis
- Perform routine and non-routine testing on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products
- Conduct chemical and physical analysis including moisture, acidity, color, odor, and texture
- Perform wet chemistry testing methods such as titrations (e.g., acid value, free fatty acid, peroxide value)
- Ensure all testing is completed accurately and in a timely manner
Data Recording & Documentation
- Accurately record test results, observations, and quality metrics
- Maintain laboratory logs, reports, and Certificates of Analysis (COAs)
- Ensure proper documentation in accordance with company and regulatory standards
Instrument Calibration & Maintenance
- Calibrate and maintain lab equipment following SOPs and manufacturer guidelines
- Perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot minor equipment issues
Quality Assurance & Compliance
- Follow GLP/GMP practices and all quality and food safety standards
- Support internal audits and inspections
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements (FSMA, ISO, etc.)
Sample Collection & Preparation
- Collect and prepare samples from production and storage areas using proper techniques
- Ensure sample integrity for accurate testing results
Continuous Improvement
- Assist with method development and validation
- Identify opportunities to improve lab processes and testing accuracy
Safety & Housekeeping
- Follow all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and lab protocols
- Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment
Communication & Teamwork
- Communicate test results and quality issues to production and management teams
- Collaborate cross-functionally to resolve quality concerns
Qualifications
Required:
- High School Diploma or equivalent
- 2+ years of laboratory experience in food, chemical, or manufacturing environments
- Hands-on experience with wet chemistry methods (titrations, solution prep, reagent handling)
- Familiarity with lab equipment, SOPs, and quality systems (GLP/GMP)
- Strong attention to detail, organization, and documentation skills
Preferred:
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Food Science, or related field
- Experience with AOCS methods or edible oil/palm oil analysis
- Knowledge of regulatory standards (GMP, FSMA, Kosher, Halal)
Key Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail
- Knowledge of laboratory safety and compliance standards
- Effective communication and teamwork
- Ability to follow procedures and maintain consistency
Balance Staffing is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal or state law.
Pay: $26.00 - $27.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
