Chemistry Laboratory Technician

Job Summary

The Chemistry Laboratory Technician is responsible for analyzing a variety of items such as feed ingredients, finished feed, poultry leaf fat, poultry products, and prepared food products as needed. They also contribute to maintaining proper inventory levels of chemicals and supplies essential for lab operations. Additionally, they perform laboratory procedures with precision and adherence to safety protocols, ensuring that all tasks are carried out accurately and in accordance with approved methods.

• Prepares and conducts pesticide residue analysis, protein, fat, moisture, fiber, calcium, chloride, and trace metal analysis.
• Separates pesticides from samples using column chromatography.
• Analyzes pesticides on an Agilent Electron Capture Gas Chromatograph.
• Analyzes protein on a Leco Combustion Analyzer.
• Analyzes fat and moisture on an Ankom Fat/Moisture Instrument.
• Analyzes crude fiber on an Ankom Fiber Instrument.
• Extracts trace metals using a Milestone Microwave Acid Digestion Instrument.
• Analyzes trace metals using a Perkin Elmer ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma).
• Performs proximate analysis using a Foss NIR (Near Infrared) Instrument.
• Performs caloric analysis using a Leco Combustion Calorimeter.
• Presses samples for the Leco Combustion Calorimeter.
• Prepares samples using a Robot Coupler, Perten Sample Mill, and a food processor.
• Tests MIU (moisture, impurities, and unsaps) using wet chemistry.
• Measures peroxide value using wet chemistry and Foss NIR.
• Measures salt content using an Oakton Salinity Meter.
• Measures pH using a Fisher Scientific pH meter.
• Tests chloride using Quantab titration test strips.
• Enters incoming ingredients and samples into the LIMS (laboratory information management system).
• Participates in AAFCO and AOCS check sample programs.
• Assists in maintenance of inventories of laboratory supplies and chemicals.
• Attends training seminars as required.
• Performs other duties as required.
• Maintains a close working relationship with the Nutritional Services Department and other related departments.

• Working knowledge of basic laboratory functions and metric measurements (weights and volume).
• Ability to work with delicate instruments, glassware, and other laboratory equipment.
• Skill in taking accurate measurements and using a calculator.
• Strong computer literacy (Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook).
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to communicate with all levels of the organization in a timely and professional manner.
• Multilingual skills strongly preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize projects, excellent planning skills, and a high attention to detail.
• Strong customer‑centric attitude, high energy level, and a strong sense of urgency.

• Two‑ or four‑year degree in science or a related field (chemistry preferred). Prior lab experience may be acceptable in lieu of a degree in some cases.
• Certifications are not required for this position but would be desired.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to risk of injury in an office environment. The work may require extended shifts (holiday, weekend, and/or extended) as business need requires. The employee must be able to stand for extended times and lift up to 50lbs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Wayne‑Sanderson does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender (sex), sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, citizenship status, a person’s veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law or executive order. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.