The Laboratory Technician performs and documents routine tasks related to sample processing using written operating procedures, standard laboratory methods and/or basic laboratory techniques, functions and equipment. This position is responsible for conducting specific procedures and tests within the laboratory requiring the use of applied knowledge and practical skills learned from on-the-job experience and is expected to modify or adapt techniques to fit special needs or problems. The Laboratory Technician calculates data from routine tests to final results; evaluating results for accuracy where expected findings are not precisely defined, but sufficient guidelines exist for reference. This position assists with, and occasionally performs, specialized and non-routine tests and assays, maintaining accurate records of such work. The Laboratory Technician coordinates and plans assigned work with other technicians and scientists to best support laboratory functions. This is a Monday-Friday position, with weekend coverage as needed.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide support to the Laboratory department by performing and/or coordinating a variety of laboratory processes.

• Register and prepare samples for general analytical testing through data entry, weighing and physical homogenization.

• Prep and perform routine to more complex analyses per approved methods.

• Accurately read and record results of analyses, ensuring identification numbers are matched with correct samples.

• Effectively and efficiently operate basic laboratory equipment such as balances, pH meter, colorimeter, spectrophotometer, autoclave, evaporator, etc.

• Prepare and assure the accuracy of standards, reagents, etc. needed for analyses.

• Acid wash glassware and specially clean other equipment and areas as required.

• Function as primary data generator; record and calculate data; sign assay sheets.

• Perform routine lab and department maintenance to keep area clean and orderly.

• Conduct preliminary interpretations of data or observations, and draft short reports to Manager.

• Complete assignments in a timely, diligent, and safe manner; performing work in accordance with SOPs.

• Ensure quality of results by assisting with establishment and maintenance of Quality Assurance/Quality Control documents, plans and ICPs.

• Document QA/QC data and report to lead or management.

• Ensure equipment is maintained in reliable working order; make repairs or modifications as able or requesting repairs in a timely manner.

• Effectively and efficiently perform chemistry, physical, and/or microbiology sample preparation and testing.

Other Duties and Responsibilities:

• Troubleshoot issues or concerns with management.

• Understand and adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices and Good Laboratory Practices.

• This position requires the ability to work with dairy and nut products in addition to other related ingredients and allergens.

• Safety Protocol

• Stop any observed unsafe acts and obey facility safety rules and procedures.

• Correct or report any observed safety hazards.

• Support safety policies and programs.

This list of duties and responsibilities is not all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities, as management may deem necessary from time to time.

Qualifications:

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED Preferred.

• Associate’s Degree or some coursework in Food Science, Chemistry or Biology preferred.

• Equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be considered.

Experience:

• Minimum one (1) year of experience in the food production industry or in a related quality or laboratory field preferred.

• Experience with both metric and standard systems of measurement preferred.

Skills Required:

• Ability to read, understand, and follow documents and procedures. (GLP, SOP, MSDS, GMP, test procedures, and HACCP).

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

• Demonstrate attention to detail, quality and cleanliness in work.

• Demonstrate excellent organizational skills, establish priorities, ability to multitask, and meet deadlines.

• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with supervisors/managers, colleagues and individuals inside and outside the organization.

• Follow one- or two-step verbal instructions; read and follow written instructions; perform routine and repetitive tasks and carry out detailed but uncomplicated written or verbal instructions.

• Basic computer skills with Microsoft Excel, Power Point, Word, Outlook and field-specific software.

• Basic math plus fractions, decimals and percentages, as well as algebraic calculations.

• Results driven, bottom-line oriented, strive to exceed goals, and motivate self and others to achieve positive outcomes.

• Demonstrate functional and technical knowledge, ability to learn new skills quickly, and achieve a high level of accomplishment.

• Ability to extract, analyze, and act on information with limited supervisory input.

• Dedication to meet the expectations and requirements of internal and external customers; acts with customers in mind.

• Exhibit a professional manner in dealing with others and work to maintain constructive working relationships.