QC Planner

Team Horizon is seeking a Quality Control Laboratory Planner for our client based in Cork. This person will be responsible for the planning and control of the testing schedule for all raw materials and finished products released. The QC Planner is responsible for preparing short-term and long-term testing schedules and incorporating non-routine testing needs such as process validation testing, customer complaint testing, testing arising from non-conformances, training activities, etc. into the QC testing schedules. The role will play a key part in the planning of external testing activities.

The QC Planner serves as the key contact within the QC department for both internal and external customers as well as third party laboratories. They will be responsible for the provision of updates to stakeholders  on the status of testing and QC release, and for inclusion of new testing requests in the short-term and long-term testing schedules. The role requires the building of excellent relationships, within and outside of the QC department, to ensure the optimum testing schedule is agreed with all stakeholders.

Why you should apply:

• This is an excellent opportunity to join a world class manufacturing operation, with an outstanding track record of reliably delivering high-quality medicines to patients around the world suffering serious illnesses.


• There is a strong culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the company to strive for solutions that improve health outcomes and dramatically improve people’s lives


• Our client is developing the capability to produce all its medicines, helping to ensure continuity of supply of our medicines as they expand internationally.

What you will be doing:

• Mid- to Long-Term Planning: Develop and manage laboratory schedules for QC testing to ensure timely completion of testing activities for both ongoing and future projects. Create forecasts for resource needs, including personnel, equipment, and consumables, aligning with business and production goals.


• Utilization of SmartQC Tool: Utilize SmartQC to effectively plan, monitor, and optimize laboratory operations. Leverage the tool’s capabilities to track workloads, prioritize tasks, and ensure compliance with QC timelines. Provide insights and recommendations for tool enhancements or further integrations to maximize utility.


• Resource Allocation: Coordinate the allocation of lab personnel and equipment to optimize workflow and minimize bottlenecks. Maintain awareness of lab capacity and ensure optimal usage of all resources, addressing any over- or under-utilization.


• Financial Oversight: Collaborate with the finance and procurement teams to track budget adherence, analyze cost drivers in QC operations, and propose cost-saving initiatives. Monitor expenditure related to laboratory supplies, testing, and personnel allocation to maintain financial control over QC processes


• Process Improvement & Efficiency: Identify opportunities to streamline QC laboratory workflows and enhance operational efficiency such as working with supervisors to implement standard work. Collaborate with the QC and operations teams to implement continuous improvement initiatives to reduce testing lead times and optimize resource usage


• Risk Management: Proactively assess risks related to lab capacity, resource shortages, or scheduling conflicts. Develop contingency plans and adjustments to ensure QC operations remain uninterrupted and meet business targets


• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Work closely with other departments, such as production, supply chain, and R&D, to align QC schedules with overall business objectives and product timelines. Act as a liaison between the QC lab and other business units to communicate timelines, issues, and project updates. Serve as the QC representative for weekly raw materials and operations planning meetings.


• Data Analysis & Reporting: Analyze key performance metrics related to QC operations (e.g., testing turnaround time, resource utilization, cost efficiency) and generate regular reports for senior management. Provide data-driven recommendations for strategic planning and process improvement.

What you need to apply:

•  Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Quality Management, Operations, Laboratory Sciences, or Business).


• 3+ years of experience in a planning, scheduling, or operations role, preferably in a laboratory or manufacturing setting.


• Experience with laboratory planning software, SmartQC experience preferred.


• Strong financial acumen with experience in budget management and cost analysis.


• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.


• Ability to work cross-functionally and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.


• Proficient in data analysis and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI).


• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to anticipate and mitigate risks. 


• Experience in Quality Control or Laboratory Operations.


• Knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) or Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).


• Project management experience or certification.