Job Title: QA Deviation Investigator
Job Description
The QA Deviation Investigator identifies, analyzes, and documents deviations and non-conformances within a regulated pharmaceutical or biologics environment. This role uses structured problem-solving tools such as root cause analysis, LEAN, and Six Sigma to determine causal factors and to drive effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs). The QA Deviation Investigator collaborates closely with cross-functional teams, prepares clear and timely investigation reports, and supports client communications to ensure high-quality outcomes and continuous improvement of quality processes.
Responsibilities
Analyze and investigate deviations and non-conformances using structured problem-solving tools such as root cause analysis and LEAN/Six Sigma methodologies.
Collect and review relevant data and information related to each deviation, identifying patterns, trends, and potential root causes.
Document investigation findings in a comprehensive, objective, and compliant manner, ensuring accurate recording of all relevant information.
Collaborate with various departments to gather information, evaluate causal factors, and develop and implement effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
Provide timely written documentation of investigations, including clear conclusions and recommendations based on investigation outcomes.
Support and participate in client communications and responses related to deviations and investigations, working closely with program team leads, quality, and leadership.
Evaluate data trends and perform trend analysis to make informed recommendations that improve quality processes and reduce recurrence of deviations.
Facilitate meetings with cross-functional stakeholders to drive alignment, clarify issues, and achieve desired outcomes for deviation investigations.
Prioritize and manage multiple investigations in a fast-paced environment while meeting quality and timeline expectations.
Contribute to continuous improvement of quality assurance processes by sharing insights, lessons learned, and best practices from investigations.
Essential Skills
BS/BA degree in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or another science-related field.
At least 1 year of experience directly using problem-solving tools such as Root Cause Analysis and/or LEAN/Six Sigma with demonstrated success.
At least 1 year of experience in technical writing and/or deviation writing.
At least 3 years of experience working in a regulated environment, preferably within biologics or pharmaceuticals.
Strong technical writing skills with the ability to produce clear, structured, and objective investigation reports.
Solid communication skills, both written and verbal, to interact effectively with cross-functional teams and clients.
Ability to evaluate data, perform trend analysis, and make sound recommendations based on findings.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and to prioritize tasks and investigations appropriately.
Ability to facilitate meetings and guide discussions toward clear decisions and desired outcomes.
Familiarity with quality assurance principles, quality processes, and deviation management in a regulated setting.
Knowledge of GMP and FDA-regulated environments and expectations for documentation and investigations.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience applying LEAN or Six Sigma methodologies within quality investigations or process improvement initiatives.
Background in pharmaceutical, biologics, or other highly regulated life sciences industries.
Experience with CAPA development, implementation, and effectiveness verification.
Ability to collaborate with multiple departments and adapt to working on deviations across different functional areas.
Strong attention to detail and a systematic approach to problem solving and documentation.
Interest in long-term career growth in quality assurance and deviation investigation.
Work Environment
This is a full-time role with a typical schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with flexibility in start and end times as long as core hours of 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. are maintained. The position operates within a regulated pharmaceutical or biologics environment and supports any department that requires deviation investigations, rather than being limited to a specific area such as upstream or downstream processing. The work setting emphasizes collaboration with quality, operations, and program teams, and offers the potential for conversion to a permanent role after an initial period, reflecting a commitment to long-term professional development and integration into the quality culture.
ACTjobsTFS2026
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of St. Louis, MO.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $38.00 - $43.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in St. Louis,MO.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 5, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
Hiring diverse talent
Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC-with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.
