Laboratory Technician

About the Role

Bell & Evans is seeking a Laboratory Technician to support the Quality Assurance department by performing microbiological, chemical, and organoleptic analyses on product and environmental samples. This position plays an important role in ensuring safe, high-quality products are produced while supporting continuous improvement initiatives within the Bell & Evans Laboratory. The Laboratory Technician will work in a fast-paced environment and collaborate closely with the Laboratory Supervisor, Quality Assurance team, and other department leaders.

Responsibilities

• Perform and interpret quantitative and qualitative microbiological analyses on product and environmental samples, including but not limited to: Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., Staphylococcus spp., Enterobacteriaceae, E. coli, aerobic-mesophilic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, and yeast and mold organisms.
• Perform and interpret quantitative and qualitative chemical analyses on product samples, including moisture, fat, protein, ash, free fatty acid, peroxide value, and pH.
• Provide laboratory testing support for new product development through shelf-life studies and scheduled sensory analyses.
• Assist with maintaining inventory of essential laboratory testing supplies.
• Prepare enrichment media and other reagents required for daily microbiological testing.
• Routinely monitor laboratory instruments and equipment to ensure proper functionality and calibration status.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment by following daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedules.
• Ensure the quality and integrity of test results by following Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs) and participating in scheduled proficiency testing programs.
• Coordinate with the Laboratory Supervisor and other department leaders as needed.
• Develop a working knowledge of the business and Quality Assurance operations to support projects, internal and external audits, and other departmental initiatives.
• Actively participate in company and department meetings.
• Communicate testing failures, errors, and other quality concerns to the appropriate departments in a timely manner.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related field.
• Proficiency in aseptic techniques and working knowledge of laboratory testing methodologies and equipment, including pipettors, incubators, CEM analytical devices, stomachers, pH meters, and similar laboratory equipment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with frequent changes and competing priorities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with team members and other departments.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in laboratory testing and documentation.

Work Environment

This position requires the ability to work in a laboratory and food production environment while following all applicable safety, food safety, sanitation, and quality requirements.