Quality Lab Technician

About the role

As Quality Technician, you will be responsible for accurate performance and communication of all laboratory tests to determine wheat/flour quality and verify finished product meets customer, regulatory and Ardent Mills requirements. You will also maintain and calibrate lab equipment to ensure accuracy of testing; actively participate in Food Safety audits and inspections and follow up and implementation of corrective action.

Responsibilities

• Perform wheat/flour quality analysis in all areas within required parameters of certification program and customer specifications
• Proficiently perform analytical laboratory techniques using basic lab tools
• Communicate results to customers using appropriate computer software
• Data entry for paperwork generation and record keeping
• Act as a front-line leader, positively influencing operator behavior and reporting and acting on quality and food safety concerns
• Aid in food safety inspections and audits

Essential Skills and Experience

• High School diploma or GED equivalent
• Basic skills with computer applications, to include Microsoft Office Suite, with the ability to learn and use new computer programs
• Familiarity with lab environment or knowledge of lab techniques
• Good to have: Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline, participated or supported with GMP for 3rd party audit, knowledge of food safety requirements (PRP’s, HACCP, PCQI certification), flour or food production quality experience

Physical requirements and working conditions

• Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as is required by the operating areas (i.e. safety glasses, protective footwear, hard hat, hearing protection and, at times, a respirator)
• Ability to work a rotating schedule including nights, weekends and holidays
• Ability to work a machine-paced continuous process that operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with conditions which include: Heat/Cold temperatures (inclement weather), Indoor/Outdoor environment, Dusty environment (to include Wheat/Gluten allergens), Noisy environment, Frequent moving/vibration/ or other motion of equipment/processes, Elevated Places
• Ability to perform work safely which may require: Frequently standing, walking, rotating, bending/stooping, twisting, crouching, kneeling, balancing and reaching or lifting at varying heights and levels
• Frequent moving/vibration/ or other motion of equipment/processes
• Occasionally lifting, shoveling and/or carrying
• Occasionally pushing and/or pulling