Quality Control (QC) professional with over 7 years of experience in the medical device and diagnostics industry. Strong leadership skills, adept at managing teams and operations in a fast-paced 24/7 manufacturing environment. Proven track record of reducing process inefficiencies, improving product quality, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. Expertise in microbiological, chemical, and physical testing, as well as stability program management, regulatory compliance, and cross-functional training. Committed to maintaining the highest quality standards and driving operational excellence..
• Lead QC operations in a Biosafety Level II (BSL-II) environment for finished product release, performing microbiological, chemical, and physical tests, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards (FDA, ISO 13485).
• Oversee the product stability laboratory program, coordinating stability test points, scheduling, and results communication for blood culture products, ensuring timely data delivery for regulatory submissions.
• Support Out of Specification (OOS) and Quality Notification (QN) investigations, identifying root causes, documenting corrective actions, and implementing process improvements to reduce rework.
• Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives, including Kaizen activities, lean meetings, and safety audits, driving process efficiency and workplace safety.
• Trained and mentored a team of QC technicians, overseeing their daily tasks, scheduling, and providing on-the-job coaching. Spearheaded training efforts for the technology transfer project to Singapore, conducting virtual and on-site training sessions for QC teams.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (QA, engineering, and product support) to support process qualifications, new product launch assessments, and development of new test methods.
• Conduct incoming raw material testing and routine monitoring of the DI Water System, ensuring all materials meet quality standards before use in production.
• Draft and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), QC records, and test methods, ensuring alignment with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Managed the blood donor database, including scheduling, billing, and tracking of donations required for QC testing.
• Performed phlebotomy as a certified technician, ensuring high standards of care and safety during blood draws.
• Assisted principal investigators during internal audits to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
QC & Analytical Techniques: Gram Staining, Lyophilized Bacteria Rehydration, Microorganism Culture Standardization, Blood/Platelet Bags Handling
Software: Minitab, Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), Storm (Stability Bank Data)
Process Improvement: Lean Six Sigma, Kaizen, Root Cause Analysis, Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) Process
Regulatory Knowledge: FDA 21 CFR Part 820, ISO 13485, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
Data Analysis & Reporting: Statistical Process Control (SPC), Trend Analysis, Quality Reporting
Languages: Fluent in English and Spanish (written and verbal)
• Reduced OOS incidents by 20% through implementation of more robust QC testing and root cause analysis processes.
• Led successful technology transfer project to Singapore, including training and qualification activities for QC teams, contributing to the seamless replication of operations.
• Decreased product stability testing time by 15% by optimizing sample scheduling and streamlining communication with product support teams.
• Successfully managed stability program for blood culture product, overseeing multiple test points and ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines.
• Recognized with Spot Award for exceptional support during the BACTEC Plastic Capacity Increase Project, contributing to a 25% increase in production capacity.