Quality Scientist

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Quality Scientist
Job Description

The Quality Scientist performs microbiological and analytical testing on spices, seasonings, in-process materials, and finished products to ensure they meet established external standards and internal specifications. This role uses microbiological methods such as total plate count, yeast and mold, and total coliform analysis, as well as wet chemistry techniques and advanced laboratory instruments including HPLC, spectrophotometers, pH meters, and more. The Quality Scientist supports food safety and quality programs through facility inspections, sampling, and thorough documentation, maintaining rigorous standards aligned with GMPs, GLPs, and food safety protocols. This position plays a critical role in upholding product integrity and consistency across the production environment.

Responsibilities

• Utilize aseptic techniques to prepare microbiology testing materials and media in accordance with laboratory standards.
• Perform microbiological testing for total plate count (TPC), yeast and mold, and total coliforms, including accurate colony counting and documentation.
• Conduct analytical testing on ingredients, in-process materials, and finished goods to verify compliance with product specifications.
• Apply wet chemistry techniques, including solvent extraction, to support analytical testing and quality control activities.
• Operate laboratory instruments such as HPLC, spectrophotometers, pH meters, moisture analyzers, and water activity meters safely and effectively.
• Collect, record, and provide basic interpretation of test data using appropriate mathematical and scientific principles.
• Maintain proper operation of analytical instruments through routine cleaning, basic maintenance, and calibration checks.
• Ensure all products and materials comply with internal product specifications and quality standards.
• Conduct inspections and sampling within the production facility to support and verify food safety programs.
• Document and report deviations, non-conformances, and potential issues to quality control leadership in a timely and accurate manner.
• Maintain a sanitary, organized, and efficient laboratory and work environment to support safe and reliable testing.
• Adhere strictly to GMPs, GLPs, and established food safety procedures in all testing and facility activities.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of the work environment, including laboratory surfaces, equipment, and tools.
• Collaborate with team members and other departments as needed to support overall quality and food safety objectives.
• Perform other duties as requested to support departmental and broader business needs.

• Proficiency in microbiology techniques, including aseptic technique, plating, and microbiological assays.
• Hands-on experience with total plate count (TPC), yeast and mold testing, and coliform analysis.
• Strong understanding of GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and GLP (Good Laboratory Practices) in a laboratory or food manufacturing setting.
• Ability to perform wet chemistry methods, including solvent extraction and related analytical procedures.
• Experience operating laboratory instruments such as HPLC, spectrophotometers, pH meters, moisture analyzers, and water activity meters.
• Solid foundation in biology and chemistry principles applicable to food safety and quality control.
• Competence in collecting, recording, and interpreting scientific data with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tests, samples, and documentation requirements.
• High attention to detail to identify deviations, non-conformances, and potential quality or safety issues.
• Ability to speak up and take appropriate action when identifying issues that could impact product quality or food safety.
• Previous experience working in a laboratory or food manufacturing environment.
• Ability to follow established food safety, environmental monitoring, and quality control procedures consistently.

• High school diploma required.
• Associate (AS) or Bachelor’s (BS) degree in a relevant scientific field such as biology, chemistry, or food science is highly preferred.
• Experience with quality control processes in a food-related or manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with environmental monitoring practices in production or laboratory settings.
• Comfort working with spices and seasonings, including understanding of their unique testing and handling requirements.
• Strong communication skills to document findings clearly and report issues effectively.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a quality and laboratory team.
• Adaptability to support various business needs across multiple facilities when required.
• Interest in professional growth within a multi-facility organization with room to move into different locations or roles.

This role is primarily based in a laboratory environment focused on microbiological and analytical testing of spices, seasonings, and related materials. The laboratory uses a range of instruments and equipment, including HPLC systems, spectrophotometers, pH meters, moisture analyzers, water activity meters, and other standard microbiology and wet chemistry tools. The Quality Scientist will occasionally work in a manufacturing setting, which can involve loud noises, dusty conditions, and strong aromas associated with spice production. Team members are expected to follow all safety procedures and use appropriate personal protective equipment as required. The organization operates multiple facilities across the country, providing opportunities to gain experience in different locations and environments while working within a structured, quality-focused culture.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Jessup, MD.

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $26.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Jessup,MD.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 13, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.