Luis Vargas
Chicago
Summary
Quality control professional with thorough background in laboratory procedures and quality assurance. Known for maintaining rigorous testing standards and ensuring product compliance. Demonstrates strong analytical, communication, teamwork skills, and the ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Eager to contribute to team success and further develop professional skills. Brings positive attitude and commitment to continuous learning and growth.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Quality Control Lab Technician
Koppers Inc.
Stickney, IL
01.2022 - Current
- Conducted standard and physical testing on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure product quality.
- Generate certificates of analysis (COA) documents and reports testing results to appropriate personnel and LIMS database.
- Collaborated with production teams to identify quality issues and led investigations into product non-conformities, driving corrective actions and preventive measures.
- Trained junior chemists on laboratory techniques, safety procedures, and quality control measures.
- Performed preventive maintenance and calibrated equipment to keep laboratory in compliance with ISO 9001 standards.
Clinical Lab Technician, Temp
Neelyx Labs
Woodridge, IL
10.2021 - 01.2022
- Collected patient samples and performed PCR analysis for the determination of Covid-19.
- Operated wide range of laboratory equipment and instruments to complete analysis.
- Adhere to aseptic techniques and CLIA standards
- Prepared reagents, media and solutions to use for laboratory testing and analysis.
- Prepared samples for shipping and disposed of bodily fluids in proper containers.
- Documented and reported results into LIMS system and appropriate personnel.
- Consistently met deadlines for delivering test results, contributing to timely diagnoses and treatment plans for patients.
Bartender
Michellas Terrace
Chicago, IL
06.2020 - 01.2022
- Crafted and served diverse cocktails.
- Provided exceptional service, fostering relationships with regular patrons to encourage repeat business.
- Trained new bartenders on drink preparation, product promotion, garnish preparation, and sanitation protocol.
- Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
- Efficiently opened or closed the bar and managed cash handling duties responsibly.
Laboratory Quality Control Chemist
PVS Chemical Solutions
05.2017 - 10.2021
- Prepare and test samples on in-process and finished products to determine if material meets stated specifications.
- Assist in the calibration and maintenance of lab equipment.
- Making and standardizing all chemical reagents used for testing.
- Collecting environmental samples and reporting results to appropriate environmental agencies.
Quality Assurance Technician
New Avon Products LLC
12.2016 - 05.2017
- Assisted in daily analytical testing on raw ingredients, in-process, and finished products.
- Frequent use of complex lab equipment ( HPLCs and GC).
- Performed thorough inspections of incoming materials and outgoing products.
- Assisted in the microbiology lab to monitor and identify possible contamination in raw ingredients, finished products, and manufacturing equipment.
- All work was performed in a cGMP environment, aseptic techniques, and complied with all of the company’s SOPs.
Retail Sales Lead/Key Holder
Aldo Shoes
Chicago, IL
08.2013 - 07.2016
- Assisted customers with selecting retail products.
- Achieved consistent sales growth, setting and monitoring ambitious sales targets.
- Trained, coached, and mentored new sales associates for maximum performance. product knowledge, and customer engagement.
- Used POS system to process sales, returns, online orders, and gift card activations.
- Organized store merchandise racks and displays to promote and maintain seasonal campaigns.
Certified Tax Preparer/Seasonal
Liberty Tax Service
02.2012 - 04.2014
- Prepared individual and business tax returns, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
- Reviewed client documentation for accuracy, identifying discrepancies and recommending corrections.
- Facilitated communication between clients and taxing authorities, effectively resolving disputes or discrepancies in a timely manner.
- Educated clients on best practices for record-keeping, minimizing future audit risks and maximizing potential deductions.
Restaurant Shift Manager
Cosi
06.2012 - 07.2013
- Supervised daily operations, ensuring adherence to Cosi's quality standards and service excellence.
- Trained and mentored staff on efficient food preparation and customer service techniques.
- Oversaw cash handling procedures, maintaining accurate records and minimizing discrepancies in daily financial reports.
- Coordinated team member schedules and implemented inventory management.
- Enforced health and safety regulations in accordance to company and City of Chicago standards
Shift Manager
Fazal Development Network DBA Subway
06.2008 - 06.2012
- Supervised daily operations, ensuring compliance with food safety and quality standards.
- Trained and mentored team members to enhance service efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Excelled in every store position and regularly backed up front-line staff.
- Collaborated with other Shift Managers to maintain consistency in policies enforcement across all shifts, fostering a cohesive workplace culture.
- Made sanitation a top priority and hosted monthly refreshers on good sanitation techniques.
- Operated a POS Cash Register.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, IL12-2016
High School - undefined
Bremen High School
Midlothian, IL06-2010
Skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office/LIMS systems
- Instrument Calibration and Maintenance
- Chemical handling
- Analytical testing
- GMP compliance
- Quality control
- Audit inspections
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Multitasking
- Excellent communication
Certification
- DOT/HAZWOPER CERTIFICATION
- BASSET LICENSE- BARTENDER
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Quality Control Lab Technician
Koppers Inc.
01.2022 - Current
Clinical Lab Technician, Temp
Neelyx Labs
10.2021 - 01.2022
Bartender
Michellas Terrace
06.2020 - 01.2022
Laboratory Quality Control Chemist
PVS Chemical Solutions
05.2017 - 10.2021
Quality Assurance Technician
New Avon Products LLC
12.2016 - 05.2017
Retail Sales Lead/Key Holder
Aldo Shoes
08.2013 - 07.2016
Restaurant Shift Manager
Cosi
06.2012 - 07.2013
Certified Tax Preparer/Seasonal
Liberty Tax Service
02.2012 - 04.2014
Shift Manager
Fazal Development Network DBA Subway
06.2008 - 06.2012
High School - undefined
Bremen High School
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
University of Illinois at Chicago