Quality Technician

Based at our Bolton site and reporting to the Quality Manager, the successful applicant will become a key member of the Quality team, responsible for undertaking routine testing of raw materials, product batches, and finished goods. Working to established quality procedures, the candidate will troubleshoot quality issues within manufacturing, filling, and packing, and carry out duties appropriate to their role under the direction of the Quality Supervisor / Quality Manager. This is a shift-based role, and the successful applicant will be expected to work across rotating shift patterns (currently Monday - Friday alternate weeks of 6am - 2pm / 2pm - 10pm), adhere to company Health & Safety policies and procedures, and actively promote a safe working environment.

Responsibilities

• Product Testing & Inspection: Conduct routine sampling and testing of raw materials, in-process batches, and finished products. Perform viscosity, density, colour matching, gloss level, and drying time tests using appropriate lab equipment. Ensure all products meet specifications before release and correct those that fall outside specification.
• Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate records of test results, batch numbers, and non-conformances. Complete quality control documentation and certificates of analysis. Assist in preparing reports for internal audits and customer queries. Coordinate tasks and ensure timely handover of relevant information. Maintain a clean, organised, and safe environment in line with 5S principles. Ensure all equipment is calibrated, maintained, and stored correctly. Manage inventory of lab consumables and chemicals, ensuring proper labelling and storage. Support regular housekeeping audits and contribute to continuous lab improvements.
• KPI Support: Contribute to the tracking and reporting of key quality metrics including: Right First Time – ensuring timely release of batches within specification. Reject Batches – identifying, documenting, and supporting investigations into off-spec or rework batches. Customer Complaints – assisting in complaint investigations and providing lab data to support root cause analysis and corrective actions. Continuous Improvement – identifying and investigating opportunities for improvement across all areas of manufacture and testing.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure all quality activities comply with health, safety, and environmental regulations. Handle chemicals and lab equipment safely and responsibly.

Qualifications

• Science-based qualification minimum A-level.
• Minimum GCSE standard or equivalent in English/Maths.
• Excellent written and oral communication.
• Ability to work within a busy environment to meet deadlines.
• A highly motivated self-starter who can demonstrate initiative.
• Attention to detail, whilst undertaking QA work in a tidy and timely fashion.
• Have a methodical approach.
• PC literate with experience of Windows-based software systems (e.g. Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook).
• Experienced ISO9001 & ISO14001 auditor.
• Experienced user of problem solving methodologies such as 8D, 5W, RCA and Six Sigma.
• Relevant previous experience in a Quality background essential.
• Committed to developing the department by implementing new ideas and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Equal Opportunity Employer

An equal opportunity employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, colour, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic or national origin, disability, age pregnancy or maternity, marital or civil partner status, or any other protected characteristic prohibited by law.