Lab Technician

Lab Technician (GNS)

This role focuses on performing quality assurance and quality control testing in a manufacturing plant laboratory, ensuring all products meet strict FDA and internal standards. The lab technician collects and analyzes liquid samples from production silos, documents results accurately, and supports continuous production by keeping samples within specification. This position offers the opportunity to develop technical expertise in analytical chemistry and lab instrumentation while contributing to a growing organization with potential for internal movement after one year.

Responsibilities include:

• Navigating the plant environment safely to obtain liquid samples from silos in accordance with FDA and plant standards, maintaining awareness of machines, forklifts, and other equipment.
• Collecting, labeling, and handling samples carefully to ensure integrity and traceability throughout the testing process.
• Performing laboratory tests on samples using lab equipment and instruments, including measurements of pH, acidity, freezing or boiling point, viscosity, and solid/fat percentages.
• Verifying that all test results remain within specified ranges and promptly identifying and escalating any out-of-specification findings.
• Documenting all test results accurately with dates, signatures, and required details, ensuring complete and compliant records.
• Maintaining a clean and organized laboratory environment to prevent contamination and support safe, efficient operations.
• Monitoring and replenishing laboratory supplies such as chemicals, pipettes, and other consumables to ensure continuous testing capability.
• Following FDA regulations, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and plant-specific standards at all times in both the lab and production areas.
• Calibrating laboratory equipment daily and performing routine maintenance checks to ensure accurate and reliable measurements.
• Responding to phone calls from the dairy and various plant departments, providing timely updates and coordinating sample testing and release.
• Multitasking effectively throughout the shift to manage multiple samples, tests, and documentation requirements simultaneously.
• Supporting quality assurance and quality control activities by performing inspections and analytical testing in line with established procedures.
• Using data entry systems to record, review, and verify laboratory and quality data.
• Collaborating with production and quality teams to ensure products and samples proceed through the process in specification and on schedule.

Essential skills include:

• Bachelor’s degree (BS) in a technical science such as chemistry, biology, microbiology, or a related field.
• At least 1 year of experience working in a manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory instrumentation and analytical testing methods.
• Knowledge of quality assurance and quality control principles in a lab or manufacturing setting.
• Ability to perform tests such as pH, acidity, viscosity, and solid/fat percentage measurements.
• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and FDA-related standards.
• Strong documentation skills with the ability to accurately record and review quality standards and test results.
• Ability to perform titrations and other basic analytical chemistry techniques.
• Experience with data entry and maintaining accurate electronic or paper records.
• Ability to work safely in a plant and laboratory environment, including around machinery and forklifts.
• Strong multitasking skills and the ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining sample integrity and cleanliness in the lab.

Additional skills and qualifications include:

• Background in chemistry, biology, microbiology, or…