Description:
Sample Lab Technician (Food Manufacturing)
Department: Sales
FLSA Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Shift/Schedule: Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Location: Otay Mesa, CA
Overview
Jensen Meat Company is seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Sample Lab Technician to support Sales, Product Development, Operations, and customer initiatives through the preparation, coordination, and distribution of product samples across the Beef, Plant-Based, and Fresh divisions.
This role serves as a critical liaison between departments to ensure samples are accurately prepared, documented, cooked, packaged, and delivered according to customer specifications and business timelines. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong organizational and communication skills, and is comfortable supporting customer evaluations, product demonstrations, trade shows, and cross-functional business initiatives.
Primary Responsibilities
Sample Processing & Preparation
-
Receive, review, prioritize, and process internal and external sample requests.
-
Coordinate sample requests across Beef, Plant-Based, and Fresh product categories.
-
Enter and manage sample orders in PLEX, Microsoft Access, and other company systems.
-
Verify product specifications, quantities, packaging requirements, and delivery timelines.
-
Create, review, and apply all required labels, documentation, and shipping materials.
-
Prepare and cook product samples according to established procedures and customer specifications.
-
Package and organize samples for shipment, customer pickup, internal evaluations, and presentations.
-
Coordinate with Production, Operations, Product Development, and other departments to ensure timely sample availability.
-
Schedule and support cook-and-look evaluations, product demonstrations, and customer tastings.
-
Monitor sample inventory levels and communicate replenishment needs.
-
Enforce sample request lead times and communicate expectations to internal stakeholders and customers.
-
Maintain organized records of sample requests, shipments, and related documentation.
Customer Support & Project Coordination
-
Serve as the primary point of contact regarding sample requests and scheduling.
-
Communicate sample status updates, timelines, and priorities to Sales, Management, and internal departments.
-
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support customer evaluations, product launches, and business initiatives.
-
Assist in resolving issues related to sample preparation, scheduling, or delivery.
-
Support customer visits, product demonstrations, and special projects as needed.
Trade Shows, Events & Product Demonstrations
-
Support the preparation, cooking, presentation, and transportation of products for trade shows, conferences, customer meetings, and company-sponsored events.
-
Assist with event setup, logistics, and product presentation activities.
-
Coordinate with Sales and Product Development teams to ensure products are prepared and presented according to specifications.
-
Support marketing and customer engagement initiatives through sample preparation and event participation.
Cross-Training & Administrative Support
-
Participate in cross-training initiatives to develop knowledge of related operational and administrative functions.
-
Provide backup support during employee absences or periods of increased workload.
-
Serve as a backup for order processing activities, including order entry, verification, and coordination with internal departments.
-
Assist with order tracking and fulfillment support as needed.
-
Serve as a backup for invoicing functions, ensuring accurate and timely processing of customer invoices and supporting documentation.
-
Assist with data entry, record maintenance, reporting, and general administrative tasks.
-
Support departmental projects and continuous improvement initiatives.
-
Perform other duties as assigned to support business operations.
Food Safety & Compliance
-
Follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety requirements, and company sanitation procedures.
-
Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary sample preparation and storage area.
-
Ensure proper product handling, storage, temperature control, and traceability throughout the sample preparation process.
-
Adhere to all workplace safety policies and procedures when handling food products, equipment, and chemicals.
-
Assist with audits, inspections, and documentation related to sample activities as needed.
Requirements:
Education & Experience
-
High School Diploma or GED required.
-
Associate degree in Business, Food Science, Culinary Arts, Logistics, or a related field preferred.
-
One to three years of experience in sample coordination, food production support, customer service, administrative support, or a related role preferred.
-
Experience working in a food manufacturing environment is preferred.
-
Experience supporting customer presentations, product demonstrations, or trade shows is a plus.
Knowledge & Skills
-
Strong organizational and time-management skills.
-
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
-
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
-
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
-
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Outlook, and Word.
-
Experience with ERP systems such as PLEX and Microsoft Access preferred.
-
Ability to follow written instructions and standardized procedures.
-
Strong customer service mindset with a collaborative approach.
-
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
-
Flexibility to support special events, customer visits, and trade shows when needed.
-
Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
-
Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout office, kitchen, laboratory, and production environments.
-
Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds occasionally.
-
Ability to safely handle food products and operate cooking equipment.
-
Ability to work in refrigerated and food production environments when required.
-
Ability to travel locally to support company events, trade shows, and customer presentations as needed.
-
Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and perform repetitive motions throughout the workday.
