What Does a QC Analyst Do?

Every industry that produces goods requires quality control, so Quality Control (QC) Analysts can be found working in a wide variety of different industries – including life science sectors like pharma, biotech, medical device manufacturing and more.

The Quality Control Analyst’s primary role is to ensure that goods and processes meet specific quality standards. Their goal is to ensure uniformity and consistently high quality across all products and at all stages of the manufacturing process.

 

QC Analyst: Duties & Responsibilities

Testing and Analysis 

QC Analysts use specific analytical methods and equipment to test raw materials (Raw Materials Analyst), work-in-progress items (In-Process Analyst) and finished products (Finished Product Testing). They then analyse this data to determine whether the products meet the required quality standards for the project in question. Any deviations from these quality specifications are then reported to the appropriate personnel. 
Quality Control Analysts can then also help to identify gaps in quality control procedures that need improvement and optimisation. 

Documentation

Quality Control Analysts must keep thorough records of all testing procedures and results so that they can prepare meticulous technical documents and accurate reports. Creating these documents will involve reviewing Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Standard Operating Practices (SOPs) documentation. 

Equipment and Maintenance

QC Analysts are also responsible for operating and calibrating various pieces of testing equipment in order to ensure their accuracy and reliability. They are also sometimes responsible for managing and maintaining lab inventory to ensure that testing supplies are available as and when they’re needed. 

What Skills & Qualifications Does a QC Analyst Need?

QC Analysts usually need a degree (or equivalent) in a subject that’s relevant to the industry they wish to enter. In certain sectors, the work can be very fast-paced, so the ability to adapt to changing situations and thrive in high-pressure environments is advantageous. However, in other QC Analyst roles, the samples you test and the test methods you use will be very similar from one day to the next, which is great for those who enjoy routine. 

QC Analysts need excellent attention to detail in order to observe and note all changes to processes, functions and results, no matter how small the discrepancies may be. You will also need strong communication skills, both written and verbal, in order to communicate your findings succinctly and clearly. 

If you would like more expert advice and support on securing roles in the life science industry, please don’t hesitate to contact Hyper Recruitment Solutions today!