Quality Lab Technician (3rd Shift)

About the Role

Ornua Ingredients North America custom formulates and manufactures a complete line of pasteurized process cheese products. As a Quality Technician, you will perform inspections and procedures related to Quality Assurance and Food Safety programs, and assist the department in performing and documenting all regulatory compliance requirements. The Lab Technician works closely with production staff in reporting any out-of-specification products, ingredients, or conditions as soon as possible. They will work cross-functionally to ensure all employees follow GMP’s and Quality protocols as defined by local, state, and federal regulations. Your contributions will strengthen our operations, support our culture of continuous improvement, and help Ornua deliver high-quality products enjoyed by consumers around the world.

Responsibilities

• Set up and calibrate lab equipment
• Check the Production line at the beginning of each new product to ensure that the proper raw materials and ingredients are being used
• Check the Packaging line at the beginning of each product run to ensure proper product labeling and identification
• Perform required on-line testing (Fat, Moisture, pH, etc.) during Production to ensure that products will function and conform to specifications
• Communicate with Production staff regarding formula adjustments
• Perform finished product testing on samples the following production day which includes: Melt, Flavor, Color, Functionality and Microbiological testing
• Generate reports on all finished products following testing
• Conduct additional customer-specific testing on finished products (Sauce, Viscosity, Water Activity, etc.)
• Perform environmental swabbing on a weekly basis
• Obtain cheese samples of incoming raw materials for analytical testing
• Obtain and prepare hot product samples for pathogen testing
• Demonstrate adherence to the site’s Safety and GMP practices
• Other duties as assigned, which may include:
  • Completing COAs
  • Product Formula generation
  • Any others assigned by management

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent required
• Food Science, Biology, Microbiology, or Chemistry degree preferred
• General knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP), Sanitation, and Production preferred
• Prior experience in a manufacturing environment preferred
• Must be dependable and demonstrate a stable work history
• Ability to effectively communicate in English, including verbal, written, listening, reading comprehension, and basic computer skills
• Basic math skills
• Authorization to work in the U.S. required

Physical Requirements

• Must be able and willing to work in an environment that is not climate controlled
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 25 pounds as required for sample collection, testing materials, and equipment
• Ability and willingness to work in laboratory and manufacturing environments that may include varying temperatures, noise levels, odors, and exposure to food production processes
• Ability to adjust body position to bend, stand, walk, turn, and pivot

Working Environment

Work is performed in a food manufacturing facility with variable temperatures — cooler warehouse areas and warmer production zones. The environment includes exposure to moving equipment, moderate to loud noise levels, and required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety shoes, safety glasses, hearing protection, hard hats, and hairnets.

Schedule

SUN-WED 8:00PM - 6:00AM (Thursday Overtime As Needed)