Quality Lab Technician I

Baxter International Inc.•Marion, NC

4d•$40,000 - $55,000

About The Position

The Quality Laboratory Technician – Supplemental Destructive Testing (SDT) performs specialized destructive testing of sterile parenteral products to support particulate matter investigations, process monitoring, product quality surveillance, and continuous improvement. The role uses membrane filtration methods to detect and characterize visible particulate matter that may not be identified through conventional manual visual inspection. The technician prepares samples, performs filtration and microscopy, characterizes particulates, documents laboratory work, maintains equipment, and collects data in compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), site procedures, and applicable pharmacopeial requirements. The role requires strict contamination-control practices in controlled laboratory environments, including ISO 5 or similarly controlled spaces. The position supports testing accuracy and data integrity, procedural compliance, timely completion of testing, qualification maintenance, investigations, and audit readiness. The estimated annual base salary is $40,000–$55,000. Applicants must be authorized to work for any U.S. employer; visa sponsorship is not available.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Understanding of Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
Knowledge of cGMP requirements and quality systems.
Strong attention to detail and observational skills.
Ability to identify small particulate defects and visual anomalies.
Basic understanding of microscopy and laboratory testing principles.
Ability to maintain focus during repetitive inspection and testing activities.
Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills.
Effective verbal and written communication abilities.
Ability to work independently while following detailed procedures.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and laboratory documentation systems.
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
Ability to perform repetitive manual tasks requiring fine motor dexterity.
Ability to visually inspect small particles and defects under varying magnification levels.
Ability to wear required laboratory PPE for extended periods.
Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
Correctable vision sufficient to perform microscopic and visual inspection activities.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Engineering Technology, Quality Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
1–3 years of experience in a laboratory, manufacturing, quality, or regulated environment.
Experience within pharmaceutical, medical device, biologics, or sterile manufacturing industries.
Experience performing visual inspection or particulate evaluation.

Responsibilities

Perform Supplemental Destructive Testing (SDT) on IV solution and sterile parenteral products using approved filtration methods.
Prepare samples, handle and manipulate product units, and set up filtration systems.
Conduct membrane filtration testing within ISO 5 or similarly controlled environments.
Inspect filtration membranes visually and using stereomicroscopy.
Detect, classify, document, and trend particulate matter observations.
Maintain contamination-control practices through proper gowning, aseptic behaviors, and environmental awareness.
Perform clean blank filtrations and suitability checks before routine testing.
Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, including laminar flow hoods, vacuum filtration systems, stereomicroscopes, digital imaging systems, light measurement devices, and sample preparation equipment.
Capture particulate images and assist with particle characterization investigations.
Complete laboratory notebooks, worksheets, logbooks, electronic systems, and testing records accurately.
Review testing results for completeness and compliance with procedural requirements.
Support investigations involving visible particulate matter, foreign material, and product quality defects.
Assist with laboratory studies, method improvements, equipment qualifications, and continuous improvement projects.
Monitor laboratory cleanliness and maintain an organized, inspection-ready work environment.
Participate in laboratory training and qualification programs.
Support internal audits, regulatory inspections, and customer audits as required.
Identify and escalate atypical results, procedural deviations, or equipment concerns to Quality leadership.

Benefits

Medical and dental coverage starting on day one.
Basic life, accident, short-term and long-term disability, and business travel accident insurance.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) with the ability to purchase company stock at a discount.
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with employee contributions and company matching.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Educational assistance programs.
Paid holidays.
Paid time off ranging from 20 to 35 days based on length of service.
Family and medical leaves of absence.
Paid parental leave.
Commuting benefits.
Employee Discount Program.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Childcare benefits.