Job Description

Job Description

The Lab Technician is responsible for independently performing procedures involved in the Food Safety program including collection and the analyses of product and environmental samples (sponge/swabs, air, water) and coordinating submission of samples to external laboratories. They are also responsible for all other regulatory testing within the food safety program including allergen, heavy metal, and air testing. In the absence of other team members, the Lab Technician is also responsible for sanitation duties. The Lab Technician will be responsible for assisting R&D, food safety and quality assurance in day-to-day functions.

What You Will Do At Acme:

• Collect environmental, raw material, and finished product samples according to GMP and food safety policies for internal and external regulatory testing.
• Prepare samples for shipment to external laboratories.
• Execute product analysis for salt and moisture according to standard laboratory methods and procedures. Perform Water Phase Salt (WPS) calculations on analyzed products.
• Perform pathogen testing on environmental samples and report results to management in a timely manner.
• Performs ATP swabbing for line/area clearance.
• Maintain the ATP testing, environmental sampling, and WPS databases with up-to-date analysis.
• Assist in the root cause analysis of out-of-specification results and conduct effectiveness follow up of the corrective/preventative actions.
• Ensures adherence to GDP for complete and accurate documentation of results and logbooks. Records are maintained in compliance to company specifications (meeting state, federal, and third-party guidelines).
• Ensure lab equipment is operating correctly and performs routine preventative maintenance and verifications.
• Maintaining all laboratory equipment including calibrations, equipment servicing and appropriate cleaning/decontaminating all equipment on a scheduled basis.
• Submit reference materials to ISO/IEC 17025 accredited calibration service providers within calibration window.
• Maintain laboratory inventory and proper levels of food safety supplies. Create purchase orders for necessary consumables as needed.
• Create weekly, monthly and quarterly trending reports for distribution.  
• Participating in weekly team meetings with plant and corporate Quality Assurance & Food Safety Managers.
• Acts in the role of sanitation deputy.
• Support team associated duties as required (customer sample preparation, R&D projects, process validation, sanitation, food safety, etc.).
• Other related duties as assigned.

About You

Your Education & Experience:
 

• High school diploma required.
• Associate Degree in Life Sciences (microbiology or biology) preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in food processing plant.
• Laboratory experience preferred.

Your Skills & Abilities:
 

• Experience with microbiological sampling and testing of environmental and food samples preferred.
• Experience with analytical testing (e.g., moisture, Aw, salt, nitrite) of food using AOAC methods preferred. 
• Experience in an ISO/IEC certified lab (9001 or 17025) preferred.
• Laboratory SOP development and implementation preferred. 
• Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Strong communication skills.
• Computer skills (Microsoft Office).
• Experienced with Excel.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as: safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

Physical Requirements:
 

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times.
• Must be able to work in 38-degree temperature.
• Ability to work in a cold & wet environment.
• Ability to descend/ascend stairs multiple times a day.

Health & Safety Requirements:
 

• Observe and follow all safety rules.
• Wear required PPE.
• Follow mandated OSHA regulations.
• Report all incidents including near misses immediately.

What's In It For You:
 

• Competitive compensation including annual discretionary bonus.
• Opportunity to choose the medical plan that works best for your family.
• Flexible spending accounts (Medical + Dependent Care).
• Health Savings Account option with quarterly employer contributions.
• 401(k).
• Dental Insurance.
• Vision Insurance.
• Company Sponsored Group Term Life.
• Voluntary Life Insurance options for you and your dependents.
• Paid time off including company and floating holidays.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• CASH employee referral program.

Our Acme Legacy & Culture:

Acme Smoked Fish is a seafood processor, purveyor, distributor and more, built on a foundation of quality, innovation, long lasting relationships, passion, and positive stewardship to our seafood communities.  As the largest specialty smoked seafood company in the United States, we stand committed to providing the very best smoked seafood delicacies to our customers, near and far, and take great pride in being at the forefront of the seafood sustainability movement.  Our authenticity has transcended from generation to generation and we pursue excellence in everything we produce and everyone we employ.  We stand committed to our Values and our culture, providing us the opportunity to serve our friends and neighbors.

Acme manufactures and distributes its products in the U.S. under four core brands (Acme, Blue Hill Bay, Ruby Bay, and Spence) and private labels through leading retail and food service institutions. The company operates manufacturing sites in New York, North Carolina, Florida, Massachusetts, South America and Europe.

Ethics Statement:
 

Acme Smoked Fish Corporation is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that fosters respect, collaboration, and innovation. We value the contributions of every employee and expect them to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and professional integrity. We are an equal opportunity employer.  We do not tolerate or practice any form of discrimination, harassment, or misconduct based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations regarding labor rights, human rights, environmental protection, and data privacy.