Lab Lead Technician

General Purpose

Coordinate daily lab activities and work tasks of lab technicians and assume duties necessary to support the team in executing laboratory and quality assurance activities. Provide training and guidance to new employees. Demonstrate full proficiency in performing tasks related to the testing of products, setting of samples, and following through on various quality assurance programs. Perform laboratory tests according to prescribed standards on in-process and finished food products and ingredients in a food production laboratory. Work with a high degree of accuracy and concentration to produce valid test results in a timely manner. Ensure products are produced and distributed to the highest food safety and quality standards.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily lab activities; assign work tasks; monitor task progress; monitor technicians' performance and the correctness and efficiency of their testing; conduct inspections of the work area; function as an escalation point for questions or issues; and provide input into performance development and management activities
• Provide laboratory training and function as a go-to resource; familiarize new technicians with all laboratory methods and good laboratory practices; model and promote a food safety and quality culture within the team
• Ensure the efficiency and correct conditions for all tests and analysis in the lab
• Perform all laboratory testing and quality control activities as needed to support the team in executing laboratory and quality assurance activities
• Perform quality checks on all laboratory equipment; conducts equipment calibrations at established frequency; conduct or coordinate maintenance, trouble shooting, and repairs of laboratory equipment
• Notify supervisor of any out-of-range value or variation from accepted norms in operations or product quality immediately; monitor quality problems or trends. Maintain documentation of all non-compliance to work standards. Review findings and establish plan of action to correct deviations
• Assist production in root-cause analysis for process results that are out of spec
• Ensure lab records are accurate, clear, timely, and completed with required information. Ensure all required information is documented in accordance with standard operation procedures
• Actively contribute to continued improvement of laboratory systems; participate in and/or lead task meetings and suggest changes in work tasks and use of equipment to increase efficiencies
• Make sure master sanitation is complete and signed off in a timely manner
• Assist with laboratory special projects and new testing implementation
• Assist department supervisor in monitoring GMP compliance
• Assist the supervisor in creating standard operating procedures (SOP's, SSOP's,) and other procedures for the laboratory; modify, maintain and review procedures for accuracy and completeness
• Assist during inspections and organize findings for presentation to the management team
• Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
• Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Post-secondary education related to food science, biological science, or related sciences preferred
• 4 to 6 years of food manufacturing, laboratory, food testing, quality assurance, and/or related work experience
• Demonstrated leadership attributes or team lead experience
• Certification and/or License - may be required during course of employment such as Better Processing Certificate, state certification for antibiotic testing, etc.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Mastery of applicable laboratory equipment and laboratory processes
• Strong understanding of how laboratory analysis relates to different steps in the manufacturing process
• Able to fully understand and articulate the impact a laboratory has on the company as a whole
• Able to use Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
• Able to follow laboratory procedures and state and federal regulations regarding the testing of applicable products
• Able to promote a team environment
• Able to adapt and manage to change effectively
• Able to multi-task and problem solve
• Able to prioritize tasks and work independently
• Able to work with accuracy and attention to detail
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Able to take initiative in performing job and seek increased responsibilities
• Able to work in collaboration, foster good teamwork, and promptly share relevant information with others
• Able to interact positively and work effectively with others (interpersonal skills)
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans