Lab Technician

Lab Technician

Job Description

This role performs rapid microbiological testing on raw and processed meat samples to detect pathogens and indicator organisms, supporting safe, high-quality products and timely release decisions. The lab technician works in a modern, clean laboratory using advanced rapid microbiology methods and equipment while following strict regulatory, quality, and safety standards.

Responsibilities

+ Perform rapid microbiological testing such as PCR, ATP, and immunoassay-based methods on raw and processed meat samples to detect pathogens and indicator organisms.

+ Receive, label, and process meat samples according to validated methods, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and applicable regulatory requirements, including USDA/FSIS, FDA, and ISO guidelines.

+ Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory instruments and testing equipment used for rapid microbiology analysis to ensure accurate and reliable results.

+ Accurately document test results, quality control data, and any deviations in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) or other laboratory records.

+ Follow strict aseptic techniques, biosafety protocols, and sanitation procedures to prevent cross-contamination and ensure sample integrity.

+ Communicate test results clearly and promptly to supervisors and cross-functional teams to support timely product release and decision-making.

+ Maintain a clean, organized laboratory workspace and ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), and laboratory safety standards.

+ Participate in routine quality checks, equipment verifications, and process improvements to enhance testing accuracy and efficiency.

+ Collaborate with team members to troubleshoot testing issues, share best practices, and support continuous improvement in laboratory operations.

Essential Skills

+ Hands-on experience with microbiology or biology laboratory techniques, including pipetting and routine lab testing.

+ Ability to perform rapid microbiological methods such as PCR, ATP, and immunoassay-based testing.

+ Strong attention to detail for accurate sample labeling, handling, and documentation.

+ Familiarity with aseptic techniques, biosafety practices, and sanitation procedures in a laboratory setting.

+ Ability to operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory instruments and testing equipment.

+ Competence in documenting test results and quality control data in LIMS or laboratory records.

+ Understanding of or ability to follow regulatory requirements such as USDA/FSIS, FDA, and ISO for laboratory testing.

+ Knowledge of or ability to comply with GMP, HACCP, and laboratory safety standards.

+ Effective communication skills to clearly convey results and issues to supervisors and cross-functional teams.

+ Ability to work scheduled shifts, including afternoons, evenings, and weekends as required.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Associates or Bachelors degree in a science-related field is preferred.

+ If no degree, at least 1+ years of relevant laboratory experience is required.

+ Background in biology, microbiology, or a related scientific discipline.

+ Experience working in a food, meat, or related industry laboratory environment is beneficial.

+ Comfort working with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) or similar digital record systems.

+ Ability to work collaboratively in a small, close-knit team and contribute to a supportive, fun culture.

+ Interest in contributing to a growing facility that is bringing in new business and impacting the industry in the region.

Work Environment

The position is based in a new, very clean laboratory equipped with modern, state-of-the-art instruments for rapid microbiology testing. The initial…