Lab Technician

General Purpose

Ensure the safety and quality of finished liquid ice cream mix by performing analytical, sensory, and microbiological testing. Support process control through CIP/COP verification, allergen testing, sanitizer checks, and instrument calibration review. Collect, organize, and test samples; manage incubation; and plate samples to detect microbial contamination. Accurately document and report results, promptly escalate out of spec findings, and deliver valid test results in a timely manner. Ensuring that products are produced and distributed to the highest food safety and quality standards.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Collect, organize, incubate, move, and test samples in a timely and efficient manner.
• Perform sensory and quantitative analysis on production sample to verify product specifications.
• Analyze taste, odor, color, pH, TA, particles, viscosity, Fat%, TS%, and homogenization of product samples.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation as directed.
• Notify supervisor and production immediately of any out-of-specification results; enact out-of-spec. procedures.
• Maintain and complete required documentation (paper and electronic) accurately and legible each shift.
• Participate in shift huddles to anticipate the required testing and prevent production delays due to QA.
• Analyze incubated products for presence of microbial biomarkers. Plate samples on petrifilm as required.
• Verify CIP/COP with ATP quick swabs.
• Perform daily cleaning and weekly inventory checks.
• 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.
• Position may require the ability to work weekends and holidays.
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but are 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 coupled with food manufacturing, laboratory, food testing, quality assurance, or related work experience.
• Preferred: Associate or bachelor's degree in food or Dairy Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related field.
• Preferred: Up to 1 year of food manufacturing laboratory or quality assurance experience preferred
• Obtaining certifications is mandatory for continued employment in this position.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Familiar with cGLP and all applicable laboratory equipment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and company computer systems.
• Understands and applies calculations used in laboratory analysis.
• Able to follow laboratory procedures and comply with state and federal regulations for product testing.
• Maintains accurate, legible, and organized records.
• Follows verbal and written instructions.
• Able to work with accuracy, attention to detail, and minimal supervision.
• Communicates clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Collaborates effectively, supports teamwork, and shares relevant information promptly.
• Identifies problems and reports issues appropriately.
• Able to read, write, and speak English.

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans