Lab Analyst

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title:

Lab Analyst

Department:

Reports To:

Lab Director

R & D Department

FLSA Status:

Exempt

Location:

Employment Type:

Full-Time

Santa Ana, CA

Position Summary

The Lab Analyst is responsible for performing chemical and analytical testing on hemp-derived raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to verify potency, purity, and safety, while also providing supervisory oversight of laboratory staff and daily operations. This role ensures all testing is performed in accordance with company SOPs, applicable state and federal regulations, and oversees the generation and review of Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for internal quality control and regulatory compliance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform and oversee sample preparation and analytical testing (e.g., HPLC, GC, or equivalent instrumentation) on hemp and hemp-derived products to determine cannabinoid potency and profile.
• Supervise, train, and schedule laboratory staff; assign daily testing workloads and review work for accuracy and completeness.
• Conduct or coordinate testing for contaminants, including pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents, and microbial content, in accordance with applicable regulatory thresholds.
• Review, approve, and generate Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for incoming raw materials and outgoing finished products, ensuring accuracy and compliance with labeling and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records, including chain-of-custody documentation, batch records, and testing logs, and audit staff documentation for compliance.
• Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation; oversee preventive maintenance schedules and coordinate service or repairs.
• Ensure compliance with company SOPs, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and applicable state (e.g., California Department of Cannabis Control, California Department of Public Health) and federal hemp testing regulations.
• Identify and report out-of-specification (OOS) results and lead root-cause investigations and corrective/preventive action (CAPA) plans.
• Coordinate with third-party testing laboratories as needed to verify or supplement internal testing results.
• Lead internal audits and support regulatory inspections by maintaining organized, audit-ready laboratory documentation.
• Conduct performance reviews, provide coaching, and participate in hiring and disciplinary decisions for laboratory staff, in coordination with HR.
• Adhere to and enforce all laboratory safety protocols, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe handling of chemical reagents, in accordance with Cal/OSHA standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Quality Manager or Plant Manager.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a closely related scientific field is required.
• Prior hands-on experience in cannabis or hemp product testing is required.
• Prior supervisory or management experience leading laboratory or technical staff is required.
• Demonstrated experience generating, reviewing, and approving Certificates of Analysis (COAs) is required.
• Working knowledge of analytical instrumentation such as HPLC, GC-MS, or similar laboratory equipment.
• Familiarity with applicable state and federal hemp/cannabis testing regulations and compliance thresholds (e.g., Delta-9 THC limits).
• Demonstrated ability to train, coach, and manage the performance of laboratory personnel.
• Strong attention to detail and accurate record-keeping skills.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize competing deadlines, and manage multiple sample batches and staff assignments simultaneously.
• Proficiency with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Excel) preferred.

Physical Requirements

This position requires the ability to stand for extended periods, perform repetitive hand and wrist motions, lift up to 25 lbs., and work safely with laboratory chemicals and equipment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).

Equal Employment Opportunity

Eterna Management, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

At-Will Employment

This job description does not constitute an employment contract or a guarantee of continued employment. Employment with Eterna Management, LLC is at-will, meaning either the employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, consistent with applicable law.

Workplace Safety

This position is subject to Eterna Management, LLC's Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) and all applicable Cal/OSHA standards, including but not limited to SB 616 sick leave and workplace safety requirements. Employees are required to follow all safety protocols and report unsafe conditions immediately.

Pay: $80,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Do you have a degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry?
• Do you have management experience? How many years?
• Do you have experience working in Cannibas or Hemp Industry
• Do you have experience generating, reviewing, and approving Certificates of Analysis (COAs)

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $80,000 - $85,000