QC Lab Technician

This entry-level QC Laboratory Technician role focuses on microbiological quality control testing for fermentation products used in animal probiotics and animal feed.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological testing on bacterial samples, including pathogen testing and enumeration of products.
• Conduct quality control testing on fermentation products used in animal probiotics and animal feed.
• Maintain the Retainer Testing Program by performing scheduled tests and documenting results accurately.
• Support and maintain the Microbial Control Program to ensure products and processes meet microbiological standards.
• Swab and test for allergens on relevant surfaces and materials, documenting findings and following up as required.
• Swab and test for environmental contaminants in the laboratory and production-related areas.
• Sample raw materials as necessary to verify quality and compliance with microbiological specifications.
• Input test data and results into Excel spreadsheets and other QC documentation systems with a high level of accuracy.
• Perform general cleaning of the laboratory area to maintain a safe, organized, and compliant workspace.
• Clean used glassware and ensure it is properly prepared for reuse in microbiological testing.
• Carry out all tasks in compliance with GMP, FAMIqs, and FSMA requirements and internal quality procedures.
• Follow aseptic techniques and biological lab procedures to prevent contamination and ensure reliable test results.
• Participate in training on specific microbiological tests, QC procedures, and documentation requirements.
• Collaborate with the lab team to support daily testing schedules and meet quality control timelines.

Requirements

• Foundational understanding of microbiology, including bacteria and basic microbial principles.
• Base knowledge of biological laboratory techniques and aseptic technique.
• Ability to perform microbiological testing, including pathogen testing and enumeration of bacterial samples.
• Comfort working with fermentation products and bacterial cultures in a laboratory setting.
• Attention to detail and accuracy when completing QC documentation and entering data into Excel spreadsheets.
• Capability to follow GMP, FAMIqs, and FSMA requirements and standard operating procedures.
• Ability to perform routine lab cleaning tasks, including cleaning glassware and maintaining a tidy lab area.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tests and quality programs concurrently.
• Willingness and ability to learn and be trained on specific tests, procedures, and paperwork.
• Academic experience in microbiology, biology, or related biological lab work (experience from academics is acceptable).

Qualifications

• Background in Microbiology, Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
• Experience with aseptic technique in an academic or laboratory environment.
• Exposure to quality control processes in a laboratory or production setting.
• Familiarity with working in a microbiology lab performing bacterial testing.
• Basic proficiency with Excel for data entry and record keeping.
• Interest in animal probiotics, fermentation products, and their application in animal feed.
• Strong commitment to following safety and quality guidelines.

Work Environment

The role is based in a dedicated microbiology laboratory environment, working closely with a small team of four laboratory colleagues. The lab setting involves routine handling of bacterial samples, fermentation products, and raw materials, as well as regular use of standard microbiology equipment and glassware. The environment emphasizes cleanliness, organization, and adherence to quality and safety standards, with ongoing collaboration and training within the team.

Schedule

First shift, typically from 7:00 a.m. to approximately 3:30–4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $23.00/hr. Individual compensation offered within this range will depend on 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 job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may include:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital insurance
• 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)

About the role

This is a Contract to Hire position based in Milwaukee, WI, and is fully onsite.