Ingredient Testing Specialist

Job Title: Ingredient Testing Specialist

Reports To: Director of Quality
Location: Tempe, AZ
Employment Type: Full-time

Job Summary

The Ingredient Testing Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring the identity, quality, and safety of raw materials and finished goods at Arizona Custom Blends (ACB). This position is responsible for validating that all ingredients received meet established specifications through proper sampling, testing, and documentation. The Specialist also oversees finished product testing, including the development of specifications and coordination with third-party laboratories.

This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of regulatory and microbial testing practices, while supporting the Quality Department’s mission of ensuring compliant, high-quality nutraceutical products.

Key Responsibilities

1. Raw Material Testing & Sampling Oversight

• Ensure raw material specifications are accurate and up to date, reflecting both regulatory and functional requirements.
• Develop effective and efficient sampling plans for identity verification and microbiological testing based on material risk and regulatory standards.
• Oversee the creation of sampling documentation submitted to third-party laboratories for testing.
• Determine appropriate sample quantities required for testing based on lot size and type of material.
• Track and monitor the status of all materials currently at the lab, ensuring timely follow-up and updates.

2. Lab Results Review & Material Approval

• Review laboratory test results upon return.
• Approve materials for use and release them from quarantine upon successful results.
• When results fall outside specification, promptly determine next steps such as:
  • Additional or alternative testing,
  • Escalation to Quality leadership, or
  • Returning materials to the vendor.

3. Finished Goods Testing & Specification Development

• If not provided by the client, create finished goods specifications based on product formulation, regulatory requirements, and intended label claims.
• Determine the finished good testing plan, including microbial, identity, or label claim verifications as appropriate.
• Ensure the correct samples are collected and submitted to the lab following production.
• Review all final testing results and work with Quality leadership to resolve any issues or deviations.

Key Skills & Qualifications

Experience

• 2–4 years of experience in ingredient testing, quality control, or lab coordination in a nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, or food manufacturing environment.
• Experience working with third-party laboratories and interpreting lab test results is highly desirable.

Skills

• Strong understanding of raw material identity verification, microbial testing standards, and finished goods testing requirements.
• Excellent organizational and tracking skills to ensure samples and lab results are managed efficiently.
• Ability to analyze and interpret lab data and technical specifications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with ERP systems or laboratory information systems (LIMS).

Attributes

• Highly detail-oriented and proactive, with strong follow-through.
• Comfortable making decisions and communicating outcomes based on test results.
• Strong collaborator who works well within the Quality team and across departments.

Performance Metrics

• Accuracy and timeliness of raw material and finished good testing coordination.
• Cycle time from material receipt to release, including time spent in quarantine.
• Resolution time for out-of-spec materials.
• Compliance with internal and regulatory specifications.
• Effectiveness of sampling plans and contribution to overall product quality assurance.