Job Description:
Jr. Scientist / Senior Technician
This position is located at our Global R&D facility and is part of the Measurement Sciences (Analytical & QA Sciences) team. The scientist will perform analysis of biopolymer-associated compounds, including dietary fiber, starch/sugars, protein, and related components, in support of the client R&D and operations groups.
This role is highly hands-on and execution-focused, requiring the ability to manage labor-intensive sample preparation and high-throughput analytical workflows with accuracy, consistency, and efficiency.
The primary responsibility is to accurately determine the content of dietary fiber and starch/sugars for targeted analytes using established sample preparation processes, standardized methods, routine equipment operation, data collection, and interpretation. Additional responsibilities include instrument troubleshooting and recording and reporting data to both management and the laboratory information management system (LIMS).
Responsibilities:
Perform high-volume, labor-intensive sample preparation, including milling, defatting, desugaring, protein, and ashing of 30+ samples per day.
Support fiber analysis and independently manage two parallel fiber analysis runs per day across two instruments
Prepare and maintain chemicals, solutions, and equipment as needed for the performance of analyses.
Process submitted samples into forms ready for analysis (i.e., milling).
Follow standard operating procedures to determine dietary fiber contents as well as protein, ash, fat and moisture.
Document all testing data in appropriate online system/programs and communicate results in an accurate and timely manner.
Organize and purge samples on a regular basis.
Follow Good Lab Practices (GLP) and established processes to secure laboratory safety, instrument performance as well as data quality.
Assist managers in the smooth running of the lab (i.e. lab safety audit).
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, analytical chemistry, food science, material science, or related discipline with 2+ years’ experience in a laboratory environment.
Master and higher degrees are preferred.
HPLC, GC-MS, or IC operation experience is preferred.
Basic understanding of food nutrients such as fiber, protein and oil.
Detail-oriented and results-driven, with strong attention to accuracy and the ability to prioritize tasks to deliver accurate results within required timelines.
Strong communication skills (verbal and written) and familiarity with Microsoft 365 such as Microsoft Excel and Words.
Ability to learn new techniques and adapt to new ways of working, especially digital platforms (i.e. LabVantage).
Experience with Good Lab Practices and excellent understanding of hazardous chemicals to secure laboratory safety.
Strong organizational skills, with an ability to keep neat, orderly, and complete records.
Notes:
8 AM -5 PM (Monday to Thursday), 8 AM - 12 PM (Friday)
VIVA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants have an equal opportunity for placement, and all employees have an equal opportunity to develop on the job. This means that VIVA will not discriminate against any employee or qualified applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status
