Job Summary: This position tests, interprets, and records data necessary to assist in the production of safe products that meet established quality standards. This role also works independently, trains and coaches entry-level lab technicians, develop standard operating procedures (SOPs), and monitors trends to identify deviations and initiate corrective actions.
Required Skills/Abilities:
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3+ years of manufacturing experience, preferably in a quality function; strong math and communication skills needed to read and follow written procedures.
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Minimum2+years of experience working in a food testing/food safety laboratory.
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Requires a good understanding of GMPs, HACCP, and SQF guidelines.
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Requires the ability to communicate with others and the desire and willingness to work closely within a group of individuals.
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Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
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Strong trainingand coaching skills, with experience mentoring entry-level lab technicians.
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Ability to write, review, andmaintainSOPs and lab documentation.
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Ability to compile and analyze trending data,identifydeviations, andinitiatecorrective actions.
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Strong problem analysis skills, teamwork, creativity; ability to read, write, speak, and understand the English language.
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Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize.
Responsibilities:
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Maintaining the cleanliness and sterility of the lab environment *
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Maintaining and operating laboratory equipment *
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Perform aseptic sampling technique of finished products that require microbiological analysis *
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Perform log entrance of all samples tested *
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Perform microbiological or chemical analysis *
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KnowledgeonAOAC testing methods.*
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Perform tests on environmental samples taken from food contact surfaces *
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Follow the sampling schedule and collect samples of raw materials and water samples *
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Perform environmental samples of equipment for TPC, coliform, Yeast/Molds *
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Take samples and perform analysis for Listeria environmental sampling *
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Documenting, interpreting, and reporting test results to departmental managers *
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Work in conjunction with the departmental manager and sanitation supervisor on corrective actions *
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Prepare samples to send to the third-party lab whenrequired*
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Prepare COA per customer needs *
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Participate inproficiencytesting program *
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Maintain inventory and reorder lab supplies as needed
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Work independently with minimal oversight, exercising sound judgment on daily lab operations*
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Train and onboard entry-level lab technicians on lab procedures and protocols*
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Write, revise, andmaintainSOPs for laboratory testing and sampling procedures*
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Coach QA technicians on the production floor on proper micro sampling technique *
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Compile and analyze trending reports on lab and environmental data*
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Identifydeviations from established standards andinitiatecorrective actions*
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Help with QA duties if the department is short of staff *
- Denotes Food Safety Job
Education/Experience:
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Requires a high school diploma; an associate degree is a plus
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Minimum2+years food lab experiencerequired
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Prior experience training or mentoring others preferred
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Computer literate
