Lab Technician

Location: Elma

Job Title:

Lab Technician

Job Description

The Lab Technician plays a key role in quality assurance and quality control by collecting and testing liquid samples in a manufacturing plant environment. This position focuses on ensuring products meet strict specifications and regulatory standards through careful sample handling, laboratory testing, documentation, and equipment maintenance.

Responsibilities

+ Navigate the plant environment safely to obtain liquid samples from silos, following FDA and plant standards while maintaining awareness of machines, forklifts, and other equipment.

+ Collect samples in accordance with established procedures to ensure accuracy, consistency, and integrity of all materials tested.

+ Perform laboratory tests on samples using lab equipment and instruments, including measurements of pH, acidity, freezing point, viscosity, and solid/fat percentages.

+ Verify that all test results fall within specified ranges and promptly report any deviations from product specifications.

+ Carefully document all tests, results, dates, and signatures in lab records and systems to maintain complete and accurate quality documentation.

+ Maintain a clean and organized laboratory environment to prevent contamination and ensure safe handling of chemicals and samples.

+ Monitor and replenish laboratory supplies such as chemicals, pipettes, and other consumables to support continuous operations.

+ Follow FDA regulations, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and internal plant standards at all times in both the lab and production areas.

+ Calibrate laboratory instruments and equipment daily and perform other routine maintenance tasks to ensure accurate and reliable test results.

+ Receive and respond to phone calls from the dairy area and various parts of the plant, providing timely information and support related to product quality and sample status.

+ Multitask throughout the shift to manage sampling, testing, documentation, and communication activities, ensuring products and samples can proceed in production on time and within specification.

+ Support quality assurance and quality control processes, including inspection and analytical testing, to uphold product safety and quality.

+ Perform data entry of test results and quality information into laboratory or plant systems with a high degree of accuracy.

+ Collaborate with production and quality teams to address issues identified during testing and help maintain continuous improvement in manufacturing processes.

Essential Skills

+ Bachelor's degree in a technical science discipline such as chemistry, biology, microbiology, or a related field.

+ At least 1 year of experience working in a manufacturing environment.

+ Experience in quality assurance and quality control within a production or laboratory setting.

+ Ability to document, review, and interpret quality standards and test results accurately.

+ Hands-on experience with laboratory instrumentation and testing methods, including pH measurement, acidity testing, titration, viscosity analysis, and solid/fat percentage determination.

+ Working knowledge of chemistry, analytical chemistry, and basic laboratory techniques.

+ Understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and FDA standards applicable to food or related manufacturing.

+ Ability to perform data entry with strong attention to detail and accuracy.

+ Strong multitasking skills to manage multiple samples, tests, and communications throughout the shift.

+ Ability to work safely in a manufacturing plant environment, maintaining awareness around machinery and forklifts.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Background in biology or microbiology and familiarity with microbiological concepts used in quality control.

+ Experience in inspection…