Quality Lab Technician

Quality Lab Technician

The Quality Lab Technician performs analytical and microbiological testing on raw materials and finished pet food products to ensure they meet established quality standards. This role follows standard operating procedures to conduct wet chemistry and microbiological analyses, supports product release decisions, and maintains accurate documentation in laboratory information systems. The technician contributes to research and development activities, prepares customer-facing Certificates of Analysis, and helps maintain a safe, compliant, and efficient laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform quality analytical testing on raw materials and finished pet food products in accordance with standard operating procedures, including pH, moisture, NIR, ash, fat, and protein analyses.
• Conduct microbiological testing using aseptic technique, including media preparation, Salmonella testing, plating of petrifilm and pour plates,
  
  E. coli testing, and aerobic plate count (APC) analyses.
• Release products based on laboratory test results and established quality criteria.
• Enter test data accurately into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and ensure timely documentation of all laboratory activities.
• Respond to emails and laboratory phone requests in a professional and timely manner to support internal stakeholders and customers.
• Perform routine calibrations and preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment to ensure reliable and accurate test results.
• Test research and development (R&D) samples as requested, following appropriate methods and documentation requirements.
• Prepare Certificates of Analysis for customers, ensuring all information is accurate, complete, and aligned with test results.
• Dispose of samples and microbiological waste safely and in accordance with laboratory protocols, including handling and transporting waste in larger drums.
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and quality control procedures to maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory.
• Collaborate with team members to prioritize work in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.
• Support continuous improvement efforts within the laboratory by following established processes and providing feedback on methods and workflows.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor of Science degree in a scientific discipline such as biology, microbiology, chemistry, or a related field.
• Foundational knowledge of microbiology, including aseptic technique and basic plating of samples gained through coursework or laboratory experience.
• Basic chemistry knowledge, including experience with wet chemistry techniques from academic research or internships.
• Ability to perform quality control testing and follow detailed standard operating procedures consistently and accurately.
• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and quality control principles in a laboratory or production environment.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when performing tests and entering data into a LIMS or similar system.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including every other weekend, and adapt to alternating 10-hour and 12-hour shifts.
• Capacity to work in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities while maintaining quality and safety standards.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Academic or internship experience in microbiology laboratories, including media preparation and plating techniques, is highly preferred.
• Research or internship experience involving basic chemistry and wet chemistry methods is a strong plus.
• Experience in quality control or quality assurance within a laboratory or manufacturing setting is beneficial.
• Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or other electronic data management tools is advantageous.
• Ability to perform routine equipment calibration and maintenance following documented procedures.
• Interest in career growth opportunities into areas such as research and development, quality assurance, or regulatory functions.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment and support colleagues as needed.

Work Environment

The position requires full coverage across Monday through Sunday with an alternating schedule: one week consists of three 12-hour shifts, and the following week consists of two 10-hour shifts and two 12-hour shifts. Standard shift times are 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM for 10-hour days and 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM for 12-hour days. Flexibility to work every other weekend is required, and on the coverage weekend the technician will work both Saturday and Sunday, with one day being a 12-hour shift and the other a 10-hour shift.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Saint Charles, MO.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.50 - $23.50/hr eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If…