Quality Control Technician

Job Title: Quality Control Technician

Job Description

The Quality Control Technician prepares metal samples for detailed analysis, performs functional testing, and supports laboratory quality control activities to ensure consistent copper product quality. This role works closely with Quality, Production, and R&D teams, follows established analytical procedures, and maintains accurate documentation while handling hazardous materials safely in a hands-on, lab-based environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare metal samples for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical analysis, including cross-sectioning, potting, sanding, paste transfer, polishing, and other surface preparation techniques.

• Perform functional testing such as International Annealed Copper Standard (IACS) measurements and thermal conductivity testing as needed.

• Follow written analytical procedures and standard operating procedures to ensure accurate and repeatable test results.

• Validate established test methods and assist in troubleshooting testing procedures to ensure consistent copper product quality.

• Collect, enter, review, and validate test data in WinLIMS or similar data management systems.

• Perform calculations based on test results and submit data and reports for review and approval.

• Communicate sample status, test progress, and final results clearly and promptly to Quality, Production, and R&D teams.

• Maintain accurate and complete laboratory documentation, including SOPs, test methods, protocols, deviations, batch records, and Certificates of Analysis (COAs).

• Handle hazardous materials safely, including proper labeling, storage, and disposal, in compliance with site safety and chemical hygiene protocols.

• Adhere to all laboratory safety guidelines and contribute to a safe working environment.

• Troubleshoot basic process and testing issues and escalate complex problems appropriately.

• Work hands-on with metal components and assemblies that will be integrated into printed circuit board (PCB) products.

• Manage time effectively to handle multiple tests, sample preparations, and documentation tasks within required timelines.

• Support continuous improvement of laboratory processes, documentation practices, and quality control procedures.

Essential Skills

• Experience in materials testing, experience working with metals, quality control experience, or laboratory experience (including academic lab experience).

• Basic computer skills, including the ability to use Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

• Ability to log and track process and test data accurately in electronic systems.

• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with cross-functional groups.

• Ability to follow detailed instructions and written analytical procedures consistently.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills to convey test status and results clearly.

• Hands-on aptitude and comfort working with tools and equipment for sample preparation.

• Good time management skills to prioritize tasks and meet testing deadlines.

• Strong attention to detail with a focus on process control, documentation accuracy, and maintaining high quality standards.

• Physical ability to stand, reach, and use fine tools for extended periods.

• Ability to occasionally lift small weights and handle metal assemblies safely.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Familiarity with statistical analysis software such as Minitab is a plus.

• Experience using laboratory information management systems (LIMS), such as WinLIMS, is beneficial.

• Exposure to working with metal materials that are used in printed circuit board (PCB) applications is advantageous.

• Experience preparing samples for SEM or optical microscopy is an asset.

• Prior experience in a manufacturing, quality control, or R&D laboratory environment is preferred.

Work Environment

This role is based in a laboratory and production-support environment that focuses on metal materials used in components for printed circuit boards. The position is hands-on and physically active, involving frequent standing, reaching, and the use of fine tools for sanding, paste transfer, polishing, cross-sectioning, and other sample preparation tasks. The technician works with hazardous materials and chemicals and follows strict site safety and chemical hygiene protocols, including proper handling, storage, and disposal procedures. Work is performed using laboratory equipment for SEM and optical analysis, functional test instruments for IACS and thermal conductivity, and computer systems with software such as Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, WinLIMS, and potentially statistical tools like Minitab. The environment emphasizes teamwork and collaboration with Quality, Production, and R&D teams, as well as careful adherence to documentation standards, process control, and quality requirements.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Fremont, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $33.00 - $35.00/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Fremont,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 24, 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 click.appcast.io 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.