Chemistry Laboratory Technician

Job Responsibilities

• Prepares and conducts lab tests such as pesticide residue analysis, protein, fat, moisture, fiber, calcium, chloride, and trace metal analysis using the following equipment with some supervision:
• Pesticide separation from samples using column chromatography.
• Pesticide analysis on Agilent Electron Capture Gas Chromatograph.
• Protein analysis on Leco Combustion Analyzer.
• Fat and Moisture analysis on Ankom Fat/Moisture Instrument.
• Crude Fiber analysis on Ankom Fiber Instrument.
• Trace metals extraction using Milestone Microwave Acid Digestion Instrument.
• Trace metal analysis using Perkin Elmer ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma).
• Proximate analysis using Foss NIR (Near Infrared) Instrument.
• Caloric analysis using Leco Combustion Calorimeter.
• Lab press to prepare samples for Leco Combustion Calorimeter.
• Sample prep using Robot Couple, Perten Sample Mill, and food processor.
• MIU (moisture, impurities, and unsaps) testing using wet chemistry.
• Peroxide value using wet chemistry and Foss NIR.
• Salt content using Oakton Salinity Meter.
• pH using Fisher Scientific pH meter.
• Chloride testing using Quantab titration test strips.
• Enters incoming ingredients and samples into the LIMS (laboratory information management system).
• Participates in AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) and AOCS (American Oil Chemist Society) check sample program.
• Assists in maintenance of inventories of laboratory supplies, and chemicals.
• Attends training seminars as required.
• Performs other duties as required.
• Maintains a close working relationship with the Nutritional Services Department and other related departments.

Experience, Knowledge, And Skills

• Working knowledge of basic laboratory functions, metric measurements; weights and volume.
• Ability to work with delicate instruments, glassware and other lab equipment.
• Skilled in taking accurate measurements and knowledge of using calculator.
• Strong computer literacy (Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook).
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to communicate with all levels of the organization in a timely and professional manner; multi-lingual strongly preferred.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize projects, planning skills, and a high attention to detail.
• A strong customer-centric attitude, high energy level and a strong sense of urgency.

Education

• Two- or four-year degree in science or related field (chemistry is preferred).
• Prior lab experience may be acceptable in lieu of a degree in some cases.

Work Environment

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to risk of injury in an office environment.
• Ability to work extended shifts (holiday, weekend and/or extended) as business need requires.
• Ability to stand for extended times and able to lift up to 50lbs.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.