Manufacturing Technician Team Lead - Mareks Seed

Ceva Animal Health is a global leader in animal health, dedicated to researching, developing, producing, and supplying innovative health solutions for farm animals (poultry, pigs, ruminants), companion animals (dogs and cats), and wildlife. Our “Together, Beyond Animal Health” vision emphasizes the interconnected health and wellbeing of people, animals, and the planet, with a strong commitment to a "One Health" approach. We foster a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace and are committed to employing people with disabilities, providing reasonable accommodations throughout the interview process.

About the role

This position supports and oversees the manufacturing of Marek’s products in a clean-room laboratory environment. The Lab Technician, Lead performs and coordinates activities such as planting, inoculating, harvesting, and other related processes using a broad range of laboratory equipment. The role involves organizing and executing the daily production schedule, managing personnel assignments, and ensuring compliance with cGMP, safety guidelines, and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of all lab manufacturing processes (Plant, Inoculation, Batching, Coinfection, Harvest, Fresh Passages).
• Work safely with chemicals, steam, and pressurized vessels.
• Train peers and new employees on equipment and procedures in accordance with SOPs.
• Prepare and manage the daily production schedule and equipment task list.
• Support production planning to deliver high-quality products on time while maintaining a safe work environment.
• Identify, communicate, and escalate quality issues or deviations.
• Operate general production equipment such as autoclaves, peristaltic pumps, scales, viafuge, filling machines, centrifuges, and automated cell counters.
• Prepare, review, and update quality documentation in accordance with standards.
• Use JDE for cycle counting and to open, issue, and close work orders.
• Maintain accurate activity records following cGMP requirements.
• Monitor and assist with daily lab and equipment cleaning/sanitization.
• Ensure all training is completed, recorded, and up to date.
• Perform environmental monitoring during aseptic operations.
• Contribute to SOP development and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Build effective working relationships with cross-functional teams.
• Support real-time cycle counts and JDE transactions.
• Collect KPI data and support performance tracking.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Core Competencies

• Shape Solutions Out of Complexity: Seek opportunities to improve processes and the working environment.
• Client Focus: Address needs and requests fairly and professionally.
• Collaborate with Empathy: Foster an environment of understanding; listen actively and support problem-solving.
• Engage and Develop: Share knowledge openly and accept feedback constructively.
• Drive Ambition and Accountability: Motivate others, encourage idea sharing, and promote ownership of responsibilities.
• Influence Others: Communicate confidently and maintain a positive, professional presence.

Skills

• Ability to train new personnel on equipment operation and safety.
• Strong understanding of production processes, critical parameters, and equipment.
• Knowledge of performance management tools (including KPI tracking).
• Basic problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Understanding of change management and lean tools (5S, standard work, SMED).
• Ability to work independently or within a fast-paced team environment.
• Flexibility with schedule changes and workloads.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Adherence to proper documentation practices and ability to suggest improvements.
• Advanced knowledge of software systems (JDE, QuickBase, Asset Essentials, VMI, Helpdesk, Microsoft Excel & Word).
• Strong mathematical aptitude.
• Ability to evaluate production standards and resource requirements.
• Strong planning and time-management skills.
• Demonstrated teamwork, mechanical aptitude, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work outside scheduled hours, including holidays and weekends when necessary.

Qualifications

• Education: Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Life Science OR four (4) years’ experience in a regulated industry.
• Work Experience: Two to four years in the biologics industry; experience within Ceva preferred; experience in the specific area of responsibility strongly preferred.
• Other: Knowledge of cGMP and GDP is desirable; relevant certifications or specialized training preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to read, write, and communicate in English.
• Frequent squatting, bending, twisting, and fine motor movements.
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs frequently and up to 50 lbs occasionally.
• Standing approximately 85% of the workday.
• Daily use of clean-room PPE.
• Frequent wrist and shoulder rotation.
• Adherence to strict grooming and appearance standards: no makeup, visible piercings, false nails, nail polish, or jewelry while on duty.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in a clean-room manufacturing laboratory environment.

Schedule

Monday through Friday, 5:30 AM – 2:00 PM.