Quality Lab Technician (Maternity cover) in Croydon

We’re looking for a highly skilled and detail-driven Quality Lab Technician (Maternity cover) to safeguard the quality, safety, and integrity of Tropic’s products. This role sits at the heart of the Quality function, combining hands-on testing with operational oversight, technical expertise, and a focus on continuous improvement. From raw materials through finished goods, you’ll ensure everything meets high standards of compliance, performance, and consistency. Working closely with the Quality Lab Supervisor and wider Operations teams, you’ll act as a link between lab and production, supporting critical decision-making, driving quality excellence, and helping to maintain ISO 22716 (Cosmetic GMP) and ISO 9001 standards.

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, take pride in precision, and enjoy being trusted as a technical expert, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

• Conduct and document in-process, finished product, and stability testing in full compliance with GMP and QMS standards.
• Independently manage delegated projects, modules, and quality-related activities.
• Test, investigate, and release manufactured bulk and finished products.
• Review and release batch records, ensuring accuracy and completeness prior to product release.
• Monitor and document storage conditions for raw materials, bulk, and finished goods, escalating any risks or deviations.
• Monitor operational activities to ensure compliance with GMP and QMS requirements.
• Investigate and report Out of Specification (OOS) results, deviations, and non-conformances, supporting root cause analysis and corrective actions, and document non-conforming goods.
• Maintain accurate analytical records, inspection reports, and trend data to support quality systems and continuous improvement.
• Support the Quality Technical Team with Goods In processing where required.
• Perform and maintain cleaning validations across the GMP facility.
• Maintain finished product and bulk product standards.

• Maintain the Quality Lab environment to the highest standards of cleanliness, organisation, and safety.
• Ensure all laboratory equipment is calibrated, serviced, and fit for purpose, reporting and documenting any issues promptly.
• Develop and update laboratory operating instructions, SOPs, and test methods in collaboration with the Quality Lab Supervisor.
• Support the management of the finished product stability programme, including data collection and trend reporting.

• Provide technical guidance on testing methods, documentation practices, and compliance requirements.
• Support the introduction and validation of new analytical methods, equipment, or technologies to improve efficiency and accuracy.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, process optimisation, and automation within the Quality Lab.

• Accurately input and maintain data across quality systems (e.g. NetSuite and QMS platforms).
• Assist with internal and external audits, providing required documentation and supporting corrective actions.
• Conduct internal audits in line with the audit schedule, documenting and escalating findings.
• Ensure all SOPs, Work Instructions, Operating Instructions, and Quality Records remain current and compliant with ISO 9001 and GMP standards.

• Strong understanding of ISO 22716 (Cosmetic GMP) and ISO 9001 standards.
• Experience in laboratory testing within a cosmetics, pharmaceutical, or food manufacturing environment.
• Strong technical and analytical skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Proficiency in electronic quality and ERP/QMS systems.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally and escalate issues effectively.
• A proactive, organised and self-sufficient approach, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

• Employment Type: This role is offered full-time, on a minimum of 13 months fixed-term contract.
• Hours and Shift Pattern: 37.5 hours per week. Weekly rotating shifts: 7:00–15:00 / 9:00–17:00 / 11:00–19:00. Possible 1 in 3 Saturday shift during peak periods (7:00–15:00).
• Location: Tropic HQ is a short walk from Beddington Lane Tram stop, with direct links to East Croydon and Wimbledon.
• Salary: £29,000 - £31,000 DOE.
• Benefits: Up to 33 days’ holiday. EAP through the Wisdom App, generous product allowance and 50% discount for family and friends, access to retailer discounts, free breakfast bar, dog-friendly HQ with a chill zone and pool table, on-site parking, regular social events, and well-being treats throughout the year.
• Start Date: June.