MMC is hiring a Quality Control Analyst

Reports to: Quality Control Coordinator

Location: Mbabzi Estates-Lilongwe

Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

The QC Analyst will execute primary sampling, physical/chemical analysis, and data management for cannabis starting materials and finished products. This role is responsible for ensuring that all laboratory activities strictly adhere to GMPstandards and that the integrity of samples is maintained from the point of collection to final disposal.

Key Responsibilities

1.     Representative Sampling & Chain of Custody

• Perform primary sampling of raw materials, raw cannabis flower, trim, and extracts following statistically valid sampling plans.
• Ensure all samples are correctly labeled, sealed, and stored to prevent contamination, degradation, or diversion.
• Maintain rigorous Chain of Custody (CoC) records, ensuring every sample movement is logged according to GMP protocols.

2. Analytical Testing & Instrumentation

• Perform routine and non-routine analysis using HPLC, GC-MS, ICP-MS and LC-MS/MS for potency, terpenes, pesticides, and residual solvents.
• Conduct physical and chemical testing (moisture content, water activity, foreign matter).
• Operate and assist in the calibration and troubleshooting of sophisticated laboratory equipment.
• Prepare reagents, standards, and samples following strict SOPs.

3. Quality Systems & Compliance

• Execute work in strict accordance with ISO 17025 and GMP guidelines.
• Document all findings in the LIMS database with high accuracy and attention to detail.
• Assist the QC Coordinator in Method Validation (MV) and determination of Uncertainty of Measurement (UoM).
• Identify and report any Out of Specification (OOS) or Out of Trend (OOT) results immediately.

4. Laboratory Operations & Safety

• Maintain a clean and organized workspace in line with 5S or similar lean lab principles.
• Handle hazardous chemicals (organic solvents, acids) safely using appropriate PPE.
• Assist in maintaining chemical inventories and ensuring consumables are stocked.
• Participate in Proficiency Testing (PT) schemes to ensure lab accuracy.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry,Industrial Laboratory Technology or a related Food/Environmental Science.
• Minimum of 3 years in a regulated laboratory (Cannabis, Pharma, or Food/Beverage preferred).
• Proven experience with Chromatography (HPLC/GC) software.
• Strong mathematical skills for calculating dilutions and concentrations.
• Familiarity with ISO 17025 or GLP/GMP environments.
• High level of integrity and technical honesty.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, matrix environment.
• Excellent technical writing skills for contributing to COAs and SOPs.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Comfortable working with strong odors associated with cannabis and analytical solvents.