QA Lab Technician II

About Potters Industries

Potters Industries, established in 1891, specializes in glass beads and other specialty materials used primarily in road safety applications, such as traffic signs and road markings. With operations across the U.S., Canada, and internationally, we play a critical role in the transportation and construction industries. We are currently hiring for our new startup location in Wilson, NC.

• Pay: $25.26 per hour, weekly pay
• 8-hour day shift (Mon-Fri, 7AM - 3PM) until March, rotating 12-hour shifts beginning in March (days or nights)
• Full-time position with opportunities for growth.

Competitive pay and benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off (PTO)

Job Summary

The QA Lab Technician II is responsible for performing test procedures on finished products and reporting the findings of these tests. This role ensures that products meet the required specifications and quality standards.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Sample production lots and batches to ensure materials meet product specifications.
• Prepare samples for outside testing labs and State DOTs.
• Perform established test procedures on finished products, including strength, roundness, gradation, durability, coating performance, and retro-reflectivity.
• Ensure finished products are properly labeled.
• Conduct testing of raw materials as required and maintain appropriate testing records.
• Coordinate and conduct required certifications for finished products (MIL, AGB, GP, AASHTO, TTB).
• Analyze production and raw material samples for physical and chemical characteristics.
• Identify off-spec production and ensure non-conforming products are quarantined and labeled.
• Maintain records of non-conforming product disposition.
• Understand product specifications and maintain electronic systems for specifications (BOSS).
• Assign lot numbers to finished products and ensure proper storage of retain samples.
• Provide pallet labels to production employees when a batch is approved.
• Process and label incoming coating chemicals and perform monthly inspections.
• Maintain and calibrate test equipment, ensuring certification per requirements.
• Operate the plant XRF safely and be knowledgeable in radiation safety.
• Use bead splitters and ensure safety and proper function.
• Understand and comply with ISO 9001 systems.
• Perform basic computer functions (data entry, emails, spreadsheets, file manipulation).
• Communicate with manufacturing leads to ensure quality parameters and assist in process improvements.
• Investigate customer complaints and returns, identifying root causes and corrective actions.
• Prepare and provide test results for customer shipments and sample materials with State DOT representatives.
• Report daily finished goods production into SAP.
• Monitor heavy metals content of finished products and report abnormalities.
• Provide recommendations for blending/coating adjustments based on testing results.
• Participate in special projects, HSE, quality, and productivity initiatives.
• Comply with all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Demonstrate commitment to safety, health, and environmental best practices, including PPE usage and hazard awareness.

Job Qualifications/Requirements

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate’s degree in science or equivalent experience preferred.

Experience

• 3 to 5 years of Quality Assurance Lab experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Forklift operations and/or certification preferred.
• Experience with ISO 9001 systems and SAP preferred.
• Data analytics experience is a plus.

Skills & Knowledge

• Experience with plant safety systems, including Confined Space entry, Hot Work permitting, and Lockout/Tagout procedures.
• Basic mechanical troubleshooting and repair skills, including pipe fitting and minor metal fabrication (welding).
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and data entry.
• Basic math skills, with an understanding of percentages and specifications.
• Ability to operate testing equipment and collect product samples.
• Strong teamwork, work ethic, and organizational skills.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions with attention to detail.

Working Conditions

• Manufacturing plant environment with high heat conditions.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.