Quality Lab Technician

This role supports the responsibility of performing microbiological and quality testing, collecting production and environmental samples, and accurately documenting laboratory results in support of food safety and quality programs. This position works independently on 3rd shift and must consistently follow laboratory procedures, sampling plans, and safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine microbiological testing of product, environmental, water, and production samples.
• Support and execute sanitation verification testing, shelf-life studies and other microbiological testing to verify critical limits for critical processes.
• Collect production and environmental samples according to established sampling plans and procedures.
• Perform aseptic techniques, pipetting, serial dilutions, plating, media preparation, and result interpretation.
• Accurately document, review, and enter laboratory results into applicable systems.
• Perform required laboratory controls, equipment checks, and calibration activities.
• Identify and promptly communicate OOS results, control failures, sampling issues, equipment concerns, and other testing deviations.
• Participate in proficiency testing program and internal laboratory audit process for internal factory laboratories.
• Perform tasks such as managing inventory as needed.
• Maintain accurate sample identification, traceability, and sample integrity.
• Follow GLPs, GMPs, laboratory safety requirements, and applicable food safety procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
• Communicate effectively with Quality, Productions, and laboratory personnel, including shift-to-shift hand offs.
• Cross-train in laboratory functions and support team coverage as needed.
• Participate in laboratory improvement projects and other assigned activities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Science-related education or experience, including microbiology, biology, chemistry, food science, medical laboratory science, environmental science, or a related field.
• Previous laboratory or microbiology experience preferred.
• Ability to learn and accurately perform laboratory testing and sampling procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate documentation.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize multiple tasks.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to recognize and appropriately escalate unusual results, testing issues, or potential food safety concerns.
• Ability to work safely in a microbiology laboratory that handles pathogens.
• Food manufacturing, environmental monitoring, or pathogen testing a plus but not required.
• Must be able to work assigned shift with prompt and regular attendance, weekends or overtime as needed.
• Ability to walk, sit, stand, climb, work near moving equipment, occasionally lift up to 25lbs, operate a computer, keyboard/typing, communicate in-person and via telephone, complete paperwork responsibilities.

Work Environment & Schedule

This position is considered a Manufacturing plant environment with heavy machinery and equipment. Additionally, this role requires extended hours as needed in the lab. Time for collection is on the floor in a cold environment that may occur during extended collection periods. This is a Monday - Thursday shift starting at 5pm.

Physical Requirements

Physical demands include but are not limited to frequent activity or conditions sustained 1/3 to 2/3 of working hours: upright stance, keyboard or text input; sedentary – occasionally exerting 0-10 lbs. of force, limited movement from workstation for brief periods of time. Cold environment for collection times.

Pay

New Hire Base Salary Range: $56,800.00 - $71,000.00

Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents. The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors.

Benefits

Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future. We offer plans tailored to meet you and your family’s needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.

• Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
• Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
• Emotional – Employee Assistance Program, Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
• Financial – 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability