Lab Technician

About the role

At Danone, Manufacturing the best products and supplying them to meet demand is a key driver for our plant teams. We are currently looking to hire a Lab Technician based in Mt. Crawford, VA. The Lab Technician is a self-driven, self-motivated candidate capable of working proficiently, both independently and as part of a team. The successful individual must have a passion for safety and be able to foster effective working relationships built upon trust and respect within all levels of the organization.

You will monitor, test, record, and react to data pertaining to products, production processes, and quality systems to ensure the highest standards of quality and food safety are met or exceeded. You must be capable of producing accurate results while multi-tasking in a fast-paced work environment, anticipating problems, and maintaining a proactive approach. The Lab Technician must be cross-trained on all laboratory functions and maintain thorough knowledge of laboratory equipment, including operation, calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair.

The successful individual will support new system installations, implement continuous improvements, and seek to minimize waste and loss. You will assist, train, and coach employees on quality and food safety topics.

Responsibilities

• Ensure adherence to plant standards (GMP, AIB, FDA, IWS, Quality, Safety, Finance, ISO, CODES, Daily Direction Setting, Driving OE).
• Participate in and own the implementation of IWS or related integrated work systems and corresponding pillars (Leadership foundation, Daily Direction Setting, Driving OE, Autonomous Maintenance, Planned Maintenance, Focused Improvement, Education and Training, Environmental Health and Safety, Quality, Organization, Supply Network, Early Equipment Management).
• Work safely, report, and assist in mitigating all safety concerns.
• Comprehend and support plant/corporate protocols and programs, including informational/operational/management systems such as Sample6, IQS/Sigma, and Ignition.
• Communicate effectively with other departments, leadership, and employees, notifying appropriate teams when problems arise.
• Work independently or within a team, prioritize, and multi-task to ensure job functions are completed accurately and timely.
• Facilitate, attend, and participate in team meetings and programs.
• Perform analytical, chemical, microbiological, and allergenic analysis (routine and episodic).
• Provide oversight for facility systems and support development, implementation, and maintenance of checks and balance programs (coding checks, OQI review, batch ownership, filler inspections).
• Ensure all paperwork is clear, legible, accurate, and completed with required information.
• React to data, perform out-of-specification mitigation, and problem-solve proactively.
• Manage product inventory using programs such as SAP and SharePoint.
• Monitor, operate, maintain, calibrate, troubleshoot, and repair laboratory instruments and equipment without assistance.
• Participate in the Laboratory Specialist Program and required training.
• Utilize root cause analysis, maintain a proactive approach, and support sustainable solutions.
• Contribute to continuous improvement by creating and documenting Standard Operating Procedures, Work Instructions, preventative maintenance standards, and One Point Lessons.
• Follow QMS, Good Manufacturing Practices, and 5S methodology to maintain a clean, sanitary, and safe work area.
• Actively participate in Pillar activities (Quality, Focused Improvement, Safety, etc.), including observations, inspections, and recommendations.
• Support plant production needs and priorities to achieve plant goals.
• Assist, train, and coach employees, complying with all regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Perform all other duties as assigned or become evident.

Requirements

• Associate or Bachelor Degree in Chemistry, Biology, Bio-Technology, Food Science, or comparable program (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Achieve and maintain required certifications and training.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong teamwork skills and ability to work without direct supervision.
• Ability to manage high-pressure situations calmly and prioritize tasks.
• Proven decision-making ability and proficiency in reading, understanding, and following written instructions.
• Ability to keep accurate records and perform troubleshooting tasks.
• Proficiency in basic laboratory equipment (pipets, pH meters, balances) and MS Office/PC skills.
• Ability to work various hours, shifts, and overtime when required.
• Flexibility in role and responsibilities.

Working Conditions

Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to handle objects/tools, reach with hands and arms, climb stairs, balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee will lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Hearing requirements include perceiving information at normal spoken volume levels.

Work Environment: Work is performed throughout the facility and includes limited exposure to adverse conditions such as cold/hot areas and loud noise. Potential hazards include proximity to moving machinery, chemical exposure, noise, and heavy lifting. The position may require standing, stooping, moving equipment, bending, reaching, or lifting for prolonged periods. Personal protective equipment includes safety glasses, hearing protection, slip-resistant steel-toed shoes, and other prescribed devices.

Pay

This role offers an hourly pay rate of $33.15 per hour.

Benefits

Danone U.S. offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Prescription Drug Coverage
• Retirement Benefits
• Wellness Program
• Life Insurance
• Paid Parental Bonding Leave
• Other benefit plan options