Laboratory Technician

Work in the Laboratory Area includes the following jobs which are usually done on a daily basis:

• Analytical Systems Operator
• Data Entry
• Solution and Media Preparation
• Microbial Analysis Operator
• Titrations Specialist

The above-mentioned jobs (1-5) require operators to set up and operate a variety of analytical machines either manually or automatically. The operator of these machines must not only be able to react to trouble while on the job, but also make adjustments. These adjustments are slight most of the time and are made with the operator using her or his judgment and experience.

• Operators must have the ability to quickly and accurately do mathematics such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and figure percentages.
• For safety reasons, it is essential that the operators be able to communicate with each other quickly and precisely while working in what is, at times, a very noisy environment.
• The equipment being used in these jobs is being constantly upgraded so the operators must have the ability to learn new job skills and retain what they have learned.
• The only sight requirement for this area would be the ability to see and read the digital readouts on the panels, the small numbers on the burets and to differentiate between slight color changes in liquids.
• The operators must have a basic understanding of chemicals, their effects, interactions and dangers.
• Operators must be knowledgeable about the setting up and calibration of scientific equipment.
• They must also know about pipetting large and small volumes with great accuracy.
• Operators must adhere to workplace safety, food safety and ISO 14001 rules and practices.
• They must take responsibility for workstation by:
• Wearing required personal protective equipment.
• Performing work assignments in a safe manner.
• Correcting unsafe conditions and practices over which they have control.
• Maintaining cleanliness and good housekeeping.
• Following ISO policy and work practice guidelines.
• Completing all GMP/HACCP requirements.
• They must immediately report all accidents or incidents of chemical exposure to supervisor.
• They must immediately report unsafe conditions or practices to their supervisor.
• They must immediately report incidents affecting significant environmental impacts to their supervisor.
• They must immediately report any conditions which violate GMP/HACCP guidelines or could adversely affect food safety to their supervisor.
• They must know emergency procedures and their role in an emergency.
• They must actively participate in the Health and Safety Program, the GMP/HACCP Program and ISO 14001.
• They must perform a daily inspection of all equipment before operating.
• Operators must coordinate daily work assignments with their supervisor.
• They must provide needed assistance with paperwork.
• Play roles defined in the SQF procedures.
• They must perform other duties as assigned.

Skills & Abilities:

• Ability to effectively communicate
• Highly detail oriented
• Understanding and knowledge of basic mechanics

Physical & Behavioral:

• Regularly required to sit for long periods of time doing office tasks on a computer
• Frequently is required to sit, stand, walk, talk and hear
• Occasionally required to reach above shoulders, climb, crouch, stoop or kneel
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds usually from floor to waist level, up to 20 feet away
• Ability to work under conditions of high temperature and high humidity for extended periods of time
• Kikkoman expects all employees to behave and communicate in a manner which will facilitate good relations with customers, clients, co-workers and supervisors; maintaining a positive work atmosphere