Plant Lab Technologist

Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special – a company that’s sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact.

Your Opportunity The Laboratory Technologist conducts routine laboratory testing following established protocols and work plans under the direction of his/her Supervisor. The technologist will issue results and may compare current test results to established baseline data. The Laboratory Technologist is often assigned to record basic instrument performance data such as temperature readings for incubators or refrigerators.

• Microbiology and Chemistry Tests:
  Conducts routine microbiology and/or chemistry tests according to established protocols.
• Data Entry:
  Data entry into a computer database to generate reports and distribute to management.
• Analysis Preparation:
  Includes but is not limited to proficiency testing, sample receiving and grinding; preparation of media, collecting and setting up samples for analysis, reading analysis results and documenting equipment performance (i.e. temperature in incubators). This also includes cleaning of equipment and limited purchasing of supplies.
• Absence:
  In the absence of key personnel the employee’s supervisor or qualified designee (one that has been trained in the key employee's duties) is responsible to complete or delegate the completion of all required tasks and responsibilities.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

• High School Diploma or GED, required.
• BA/BS degree and 2+ years' relevant experience is a plus.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
• Ability to accurately enter test results in a data base.
• Ability to use a variety of basic laboratory equipment.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Must have the ability to complete required applicable forms in English, which requires the ability to read and write in English.
• Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Office and laboratory setting. The laboratory environment will include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals.

Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate however some test equipment can be loud. Regularly required to stand; sit; walk; use hands to handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear and smell. Frequently required to lift up to 25 pounds. Occasionally required to lift up to 50 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

If the laboratory has a Lab Technician and the Associate Chemist is the senior…