Lab Technician - 1st Shift

Summary

Primary function of this position is to conduct chemical and physical analysis of raw materials and yeast, and/or microbiological analysis, both in-process and finished product. This position reports to the Laboratory Supervisor. May also receive direction from the Lab Superintendent, Quality Manager and Production Management. Interfaces with processing supervisors and operators, maintenance workers and general service operators, to obtain samples, explain needed maintenance in lab or to request supplies located outside the lab.

• Conducts microbiological analysis of samples and preparation of pure culture yeast for use in fermentations.
• Conducts tests including nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, color, percentage of Buds, dry matters, sugar, brix, following written procedures, calculating results and recording in appropriate log books.
• Conducts chemical and physical analysis of raw materials and yeast, both in-process and finished product.
• Tests yeast for activity using Risograph.
• Follows written procedures to conduct tests on various types of dough using different yeast lots or types.
• Maintains equipment and general work area including cleaning and calibration of equipment, keeping records of maintenance performed, ensuring equipment is working properly, keeping work area clean and orderly.
• Responsible for proper use and maintenance of lab equipment and supplies including analytical balance, centrifuge, mixer, drying oven, pH meter, color meter, stir plate, lab ware, Risograph, spectrophotometer, distillation unit, mineralization units, fume hood, chemicals, incubator, water bath, thermometers, titrators, YSI 2700D, LECO and Elementar.
• Prepares chemical solutions for processing area.
• Ensures that processing area is stocked with supply of needed solutions; prepares these solutions.
• Performs tests accurately and consistently, following procedures and performing tests in same way each day to provide accurate results.
• Completion of bi-annual proficiency tests.

• Cross check of production departments CIP solutions.
• Maintenance and calibration of lab equipment in the production department.

• Chemistry and/or Microbiology lab experience either through formal training or work experience.
• Some computer knowledge is helpful, particularly the use of Microsoft Excel.
• This position requires the ability to prioritize and organize tasks during the day.
• May require repeat analysis if unsure or have unusual results.
• Decision to repeat tests may be made independently or directed by supervisor.
• Technicians must be able to follow written procedures, be organized, precise, observant, efficient, and capable of working with minimal supervision.
• Must be able to perform several tasks simultaneously while maintaining accurate timing and procedures for each task.
• Must be detail oriented and safety minded.

Associate Degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science or related field required. Bachelor's degree or 2 years chemistry related lab experience preferred.

Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.