Lab Technician

Contract to Hire position based in Columbus, NE.

About the role

The Lab Technician performs routine and specialized laboratory testing to support quality control and production processes. This role prepares and analyzes process and finished product samples using instrumental and wet chemistry procedures, accurately records results in computerized systems, and helps ensure all products meet established quality and regulatory standards. The Lab Technician maintains laboratory equipment, supplies, and documentation, supports safe operations, and collaborates closely with plant operations to monitor and improve product quality.

Responsibilities

• Prepare process and finished product samples in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Perform analytical testing, including moisture testing, density testing, viscosity testing, basic chemistry, and other quality control analyses as outlined by SOPs.
• Conduct daily process monitoring tests throughout the plant as assigned to support ongoing production quality.
• Document results of all testing procedures accurately and in a timely manner, maintaining ongoing records of testing outcomes.
• Input test data into computerized data systems and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Promptly notify operations personnel of test results and any required process adjustments to maintain product quality.
• Maintain samples of tested products for verification and confirmation of test results when needed.
• Monitor laboratory equipment performance by comparing equipment readouts with standard samples to ensure accurate operation.
• Perform light maintenance and calibration on laboratory equipment, including pH meters, balances, spectrophotometers, and other instruments.
• Maintain adequate laboratory supplies for testing procedures and inform the supervisor when reordering is required.
• Keep the laboratory and work area neat, clean, and organized, washing and storing equipment properly after use.
• Follow all applicable FDA, GMP, BATF, EPA, OSHA, and internal standards and guidelines for laboratory and plant operations.
• Perform duties in a safe manner, using approved safety equipment and completing all required safety certifications.
• Understand key production processes related to the product and make recommendations to operators to help achieve desired quality.
• Maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees and contribute to a collaborative team environment.
• Ensure accurate record keeping, including test logs, calibration records, and documentation of maintenance activities.
• Apply sound troubleshooting skills to resolve basic issues with tests, equipment, or data as they arise.
• Demonstrate reliable attendance and punctuality to support continuous plant operations.

Requirements

• Experience performing quality control testing in a laboratory or plant environment.
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and quality assurance principles.
• Ability to prepare process and finished product samples and perform analytical testing using instrumental and wet chemistry methods.
• Proficiency in using laboratory information systems (LIMS) and computerized data entry for recording test results.
• Experience operating standard laboratory equipment such as pH meters, balances, and spectrophotometers.
• Demonstrated ability to perform calculations associated with laboratory testing, supported by strong math skills.
• Familiarity with commercial software applications, including Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Experience with laboratory documentation and accurate record keeping.
• Previous plant experience supporting production or process operations.
• Ability to work on multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to learn and assume new responsibilities.
• Effective communication skills to interact with operations, quality, and other team members.
• Proven housekeeping and sanitation skills in a laboratory or production environment.
• Demonstrated troubleshooting skills for resolving basic laboratory or process issues.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality to meet operational needs.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs routinely and up to 50 lbs occasionally.
• Ability to stand and be on your feet for extended periods of time during the shift.

Qualifications

• Commitment to safety, with an excellent safety record and strong safety awareness.
• Ability to build effective teams and work collaboratively with colleagues across departments.
• Capability to manage changing priorities and maintain composure in a fast-paced production environment.
• Willingness to grow, learn new skills, and take on additional responsibilities as needed.
• Interest in long-term career development in a large-scale grain and corn processing operation, with opportunities for growth.

Work Environment

This role operates in a plant-based laboratory environment within a large grain and corn processing facility. The position follows a rotating swing shift schedule, typically working three days on and two days off, followed by two days on and three days off, with rotation between day and night shifts. Shifts are 12 hours in length, generally from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. during day rotation, with a comparable schedule for nights. Training lasts approximately two to three weeks before transitioning fully to the swing shift schedule.

You will be on your feet for most of the shift and will occasionally lift up to 50 lbs while handling samples, equipment, or supplies. The work involves frequent use of laboratory instruments such as pH meters, balances, spectrophotometers, and other analytical equipment, as well as computer-based systems including LIMS and standard office software. The environment emphasizes strict adherence to FDA, GMP, BATF, EPA, OSHA, and internal safety and quality standards, with a strong focus on cleanliness, organization, and safe use of personal protective equipment.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $22.93 - $25.08/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Benefits

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)

Schedule

Rotating swing shift schedule, typically working three days on and two days off, followed by two days on and three days off, with rotation between day and night shifts. Shifts are 12 hours in length, generally from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. during day rotation, with a comparable schedule for nights.