Quality Control Lab Technician

Description

We are looking for someone to join our Quality Team who has an eye for detail and a passion for making top-quality beer, proven over 165 years!

We are looking for a Quality Control Lab Technician to join our team at Schell's Brewery! This position will analyze samples according to specifications and guidelines. The Technician will take great care in handling samples, accurately performing analysis, recording data in the correct logs, and submitting data on time.

• Perform ATP Swab to ensure cleanliness.
• Calibrate various laboratory instruments and maintain calibration throughout the day by running check samples.
• Run the autoclave as needed throughout the day. Ensure there are sufficient sterile dishes to perform daily tasks.
• Prepare media per media recipes. Pour media plates as needed.
• Collect samples throughout the brewery. Ensure all samples have been collected and/or delivered and that all required testing has been performed daily.
• Perform microbial testing on daily samples. This includes membrane filtering, swabbing, various plating techniques, and Petrifilm plating.
• Read plates and phenotype samples using microscopy and staining techniques.
• Perform quality control tests throughout the brewery, including pasteurizer testing, seam checks on cans, bottle torque tests, and fill volume checks.
• Perform various analytical analyses on beer and wort samples. Preference is given to those with experience in wet-chemistry techniques, spectrophotometric assays, GC, and PCR.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary laboratory environment.
• Participate in sensory evaluations to assess the overall quality of current products and when developing new products.
• Contribute to ongoing initiatives to enhance quality assurance and food safety programs.
• Support the maintenance of documentation related to quality assurance, including SOPs, HACCP plans, and food safety records.
• Collaborate with production and maintenance in order to efficiently and effectively support production areas.
• Properly record and investigate all product quality concerns, then relay findings back to the Quality and Production Manager with potential issues and solutions.
• Work with the lab team and the other production managers to increase productivity and performance of production while maintaining the highest quality product
• Make crucial decisions in favor of cost efficiency without compromising on product quality
• Inspects machines and equipment to ensure specific operational performance/calibration and optimum utilization.
• Compiles, stores, and retrieves production data.
• Must comply with all GMP practices and PPE requirements
• Perform other related duties and assignments as required and assigned

• Good safety record and excellent attendance.
• Must be a self-motivated team player with a “Can-do Attitude.”
• Basic computer (MS Office), and ability to learn company systems as needed
• Strong communication skills and the ability to read, write, and interpret SOPS and work instructions.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
• Ability to interpret a variety of information furnished in written and oral form.
• Ability to manage your time and stay on task.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in chemistry, biology, or microbiology (preferred but not required)
• Minimum 1-2 years of experience in the industry, lab, or quality experience.
• Knowledge of hand tools and equipment – including precision measuring devices and standard office equipment.

• 40 hours per week. Start times as early as 4:00 AM with rotating weekends.

Off-Season
- September
- March - (Mon
- Fri) 1st shift 5:30 am to 2:00 pm / 2nd shift 7:00 am to 3:30 pm

Peak Season
- April to August - (Mon
- Fri) 1st shift 3:30 am to 12:00 pm / 2nd shift 7:00 am to 3:30 pm

Weekend Support
- Every 4th weekend rotating with team.

- Weekend hours are flexible between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, generally 2-5 hours.

• Must be able to work in variable climates for up to 12 hours…