Laboratory Coordinator

Quality Control Laboratory Manager

Since 1980, NAI has been a leader in nutritional health, bringing whole food-based supplements to a global population. NAI is a leading expert and manufacturer of dietary supplements. We are involved in every facet of the industry, including research, development, manufacturing and marketing and advocacy. As a company, we continue to grow with manufacturing locations in Vista and Carlsbad, CA. We are looking for seasoned and entry level candidates that are interested in working for a great company with opportunities to grow, competitive pay and benefits.

Responsible for processing lab samples, managing testing data and reports; coordinating testing with contract labs, communicating test progress and results to other NAI departments and for managing all lab purchases and expenses.

Core Responsibilities

• Manage all samples (raw material, bulk and packaged good) submitted by production, QA and R&D from receipt into the lab to release to the appropriate NAI department.
• Review test request forms and identify samples for microbiological versus analytical testing and for in-house versus contract testing.
• Consult with lab supervisors regarding methods applicability and validity, turnaround times and rush options.
• Populate all online logbooks and databases (including but not limited to Baan and LIMS) with samples information, testing requirements and Estimated Release Dates (ERDs).
• Manage contract testing and ensure accurate and timely sample processing at the contract lab.
• Reply to routine ERD inquiries (via email and phone) from other departments (primarily QA, Planning and Client Services).
• Update appropriate logbooks and databases to reflect testing progress, assay results, and final sample release from QC.
• Review paper and electronic QC records to ensure that all entries are up-to-date, accurate and consistent.
• Maintain an organized and cleaned front office (including samples storage and office supplies).
• Package and ship samples to contract labs (nationally and internationally) and review receipt confirmation for accuracy of sample description and quantity, testing methodology and processing time (standard versus rush) requested.
• Maintain effective written communication with contract labs regarding sample processing, testing progress and delays, OOS and retest needs, and finally issuance of valid COAs.

Administrative Functions

• Reach out to submitting department when additional information is needed in regards to material, testing methodology, or specifications.
• Consult with QC management for reply to non-routine testing inquiries.
• Coordinate with QA department to ensure that all annual testing requirements are met for raw materials and finished products.
• Process sample paperwork reviewed by supervisors and distribute to appropriate department.
• Attend inter-department meetings as QC representative for samples processing and release.
• Supply price quotes for in-house and contract testing to Client Services and Planning as needed
• Assist in the on-boarding of new personnel: including touring the facility, providing maps and phone lists, and desk supplies.
• Maintain an up-to-date comparative price list of testing costs at the approved contract labs
• Research and suggest additional contract labs that may be utilized for new products.
• Evaluate Daily Reports for accuracy (Daily Log/Daily Release)

Purchasing and Expenses

• Manage, track and document all QC purchases (office and lab supplies, chemicals and media)
• Ensure and maintain adequate inventory of office supplies
• Collaborate with the Purchasing department to process purchases made via submission of a Purchasing Requisition form and creation of a Purchase Order
• Establish and maintain effective relationship with vendors for which ordering is done directly via vendor websites.
• Coordinate with the shipping and receiving department to manage logistics of received purchases and to close corresponding POs in Baan.
• Process and code all lab invoices (mostly expenses from contract testing) for the Accounting department. Ensure invoices accuracy and consistency with the expected costs based on requested tests, contract lab price lists and processing time.

Other Duties

• Draft and submit DCRs per supervisors and manager directives.
• Serves as a back up to the "Laboratory Coordinator - Operations"
• Perform other duties as requested.

Qualifications

• BS, BA in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology or Nutrition
• Experience in scientific industry, preferably in a QA/QC environment.
• Good computer skills with knowledge of Microsoft Word, Access and Excel
• Ability to maintain documentation with emphasis on accuracy and attention to detail
• Effective oral and written communication and team facilitation skills.
• Ability to interact tactfully and professionally with other NAI departments, contract labs and vendors.
• Ability to multi task, work effectively and handle frequent interruptions in a fast paced environment.
• Detail oriented with ability to exercise good judgment and decision making skills and escalate issues/concerns appropriately.
• Ability to work in a GLP/GMP regulated environment.

Physical Demands

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop and kneel; talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to sit and stand.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust and focus.
• Lifting requirement: Up to the maximum safety-recommended 50 pounds
• The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made upon request to enable individuals with qualified disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Work Environment

Computer workstation and climate-controlled office environment. May occasionally enter laboratory and/or production areas where personal protective equipment might be required.

Benefits

• Medical plan options Two HMO and one PPO
• Dental, vision, life insurance and other voluntary benefit options.
• $1,000 Employee Referral Bonus
• 3 weeks' vacation and 11 paid holidays
• 401K including company matching and profit sharing
• Opportunities for advancement
• Comprehensive training
• Tuition Reimbursement and more!

NAI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.