QA Lab Technician - 2nd Shift

Quality Assurance Lab Technician

Recent food science grads wanted! Shift times: 11am-7:30pm, 1pm-9:30pm, 5pm-1:30am.

The Quality Assurance Lab Technician performs microbiological, chemical, and physical testing on raw materials, in-process products, environmental samples, and finished goods to ensure they meet food safety, quality, and regulatory standards. This role supports production operations by conducting laboratory analyses, documenting results accurately, and contributing to GMP, HACCP, FSMA, and SQF programs. The technician partners closely with production and other operational teams to maintain consistent product quality and support a safe, compliant food manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological, chemical, and physical testing on raw materials, in-process products, environmental samples, and finished products in accordance with established procedures.
• Collect and prepare samples following defined sampling plans and protocols.
• Accurately document laboratory results, maintain testing records, and ensure all data is complete and traceable.
• Verify product specifications, including pH, viscosity, temperature, weight, and other quality parameters, and report any deviations promptly.
• Conduct environmental monitoring and sanitation verification activities, including swabbing and ATP testing.
• Support product hold and release decisions by providing timely and accurate test results.
• Calibrate, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment to ensure reliable performance and accurate measurements.
• Perform line inspections on the production floor and verify compliance with food safety and quality standards.
• Complete GMP-compliant documentation and records in accordance with regulatory and company requirements.
• Participate in investigations, root cause analysis, and corrective and preventive action (CAPA) activities to resolve quality and food safety issues.
• Support internal and external audits and regulatory inspections by providing documentation, test results, and process explanations as needed.
• Contribute to the maintenance and continuous improvement of HACCP, SQF, FSMA, and GMP programs.
• Collaborate with production, sanitation, maintenance, warehouse, and other cross-functional teams to ensure consistent product quality and food safety.
• Assist with sensory testing, allergen and pathogen testing, and other specialized analyses as required.
• Perform routine tasks such as glassware washing and general lab housekeeping to maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.

Essential Skills

• Science-based degree or 13 years of experience in quality assurance, laboratory, or food manufacturing.
• Experience performing laboratory testing and documenting data accurately.
• Understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and food safety requirements.
• Ability to interpret product specifications, test methods, and standard operating procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to precise documentation.
• Basic computer proficiency and data entry experience for recording and managing test results.
• Effective communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Foundational knowledge in biology, food science, microbiology, or chemistry relevant to food manufacturing.
• Ability to perform and interpret tests related to pH, viscosity, and other analytical parameters.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associates or Bachelors degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
• Experience in dairy manufacturing or broader food manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with SQF, HACCP, FSMA, and sanitation programs within a food facility.
• Experience supporting audits, investigations, and corrective action processes.
• Hands-on experience with microbiological techniques, swabbing, ATP testing, and environmental monitoring.
• Exposure to quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) practices in a laboratory or production setting.
• Experience with sensory testing, allergen testing, and pathogen testing.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, growing company with a long-term mindset and interest in career development.
• Openness to learning and developing expertise in analytical testing and food safety systems.
• Recent graduates with science degrees who are eager to build a long-term career in food quality and safety are encouraged to apply.

Work Environment

This role is based in a laboratory environment attached to a food manufacturing facility, providing direct exposure to production…