Quality Management Research Specialist

Position Information Quality Management Research Specialist Laurel, MD Monday - Friday / 8am - 5pm Commensurate with Experience ($54,000 - $56,000) Job Open Date: 07/28/2026 Earliest Close Date: 08/03/2026 Department Integrated Pest Management – Research The Center for Integrated Pest Management (CIPM) was established in 1991 to serve a lead role in technology development, program implementation, training, and public awareness for IPM at the state, regional, and national level. CIPM fosters the development and implementation of pest management programs. CIPM works to support and further Integrated Pest Management through the evaluation of emerging technologies, information management and dissemination, environmental stewardship, estimation of economic consequences, resistance management tools and systems, and integration of disciplinary expertise. The Center manages grants programs for the USDA, develops regional and national priorities through workshops and stakeholder meetings, and develops and maintains large databases and database applications for USDA, EPA, and Ministries of Agriculture in Europe, Africa and the Caribbean. Wolfpack Perks and Benefits As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone. Medical, Dental, and Vision Flexible Spending Account Retirement Programs Disability Plans Life Insurance Accident Plan Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs 12 Holidays Each Year Tuition and Academic Assistance And so much more! Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community. Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered. Essential Job Duties The Research Specialist (Quality Management Support Biologist) supports the Plant Pathogen Diagnostic Certification Program (PPDCP), a collaborative program with USDA APHIS that strengthens the nation's ability to detect and identify plant pathogens that impact U.S. agriculture. Under the direction of the Project Leader, this position provides essential research support through organizing scientific documentation, maintaining quality management records, assisting with data activities, and supporting program processes. Through careful attention to detail and application of basic scientific knowledge, you will help ensure program materials are accurate, current, and aligned with established quality standards. Your work will contribute to the reliability of diagnostic practices and the success of a program that supports plant health and agricultural protection. Scientific Documentation & Quality Management Support Support the review, organization, and maintenance of technical documents, including work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and job aids. Assist with updates to scientific documentation to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with established quality management standards. Maintain organized records and documentation to support program compliance and operational effectiveness. Research Program & Laboratory Support Provide research support for activities associated with plant pathogen diagnostics, certification processes, and laboratory quality initiatives. Apply basic knowledge of molecular and serological diagnostic methods to support technical reviews, literature searches, and program activities. Assist with the preparation and organization of reference materials, scientific resources, and program documentation. Data Management & Reporting Support Maintain accurate research records, laboratory documentation, and electronic data files. Support data entry, organization, and review activities to ensure information is complete and accessible for program needs. Assist with compiling data and reports that support diagnostic certification and quality management activities. Program Coordination & Operational Support Collaborate with project leaders, quality management staff, and subject matter experts to support program priorities and deliverables. Utilize established systems and tools to manage documents, records, and program resources. Follow laboratory quality, safety, and compliance procedures while contributing to a culture of accuracy and continuous improvement. About the Opportunity If you are a detail-oriented researcher who enjoys supporting scientific programs through accurate documentation, data management, and quality-focused processes, we invite you to apply. Join our team and contribute to a program that strengthens plant health protection by supporting reliable diagnostic practices across laboratories. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions. Preferred Qualifications Experience working with Quality Management Systems (QMS), in a laboratory, manufacturing, or regulatory environment. Professional technical writing, editing and proofreading experience. Required License or Certification The candidate must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident (green card) and is expected to pass NCSU and USDA background checks. No other emigration statuses are acceptable. Valid driver's license or the ability to obtain within 60 days of start. Valid NC Driver's License required: No Commercial Driver's License Required? No Position Details Position Number: 00112212 Position Type: SHRA Position Classification Band Title: Research Specialist Position Classification Band Level: Contributing Position Classification Salary Range: $ 45,454 - $ 109,409 Salary Grade Equivalency: MH06 If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations. Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week): 1.00 Appointment: 12 Month Recurring Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather: Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events: Non Mandatory - Emergency Event Time Limited Position: No Time-Limited Appointment Length (if applicable): Department Id: 113810 - Integrated Pest Management - Research Equal Opportunity NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact View phone number on click.appcast.io to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity. If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. #J-18808-Ljbffr North Carolina State University