QA Lab Technician

Responsible for the inspection and testing of all incoming and intermediate ingredients and finished product produced in a shift, in a seven-day per week operation to meet company service, quality, cost, safety and people objectives.

Inspects and evaluates all incoming ingredients following the inspection protocol. Reports the complete details when faced with quality issues with the delivery/shipment of ingredients. Advises the QA Supervisor and/or QA Manager of the issues in a timely manner.

Collects samples of all incoming ingredients following the sampling protocol. Reports the complete details when product received and sampled was within specifications but there are minor concerns.

Tests samples of incoming ingredients for micro, physical and chemical attributes following the set guidelines and procedures for each category.

Places specific incoming ingredients on HOLD. Presents reasons for retention and recommends possible solution to the issue.

Tests samples of intermediate ingredients for micro following the set guidelines and procedures.

Places specific intermediate ingredients on HOLD. Presents reasons for retention and recommends possible solution to the issue.

Tests specific finished products for micro following the set guidelines and procedures.

Places specific finished products on HOLD. Presents reasons for retention and recommends possible solution to issue.

Enters data and information on samples in computer accurately. Ensures product description, lot numbers, job codes and other pertinent information are correct. Comments on the item as needed for everyone's information or future reference.

Tests work-in-process samples for physical attributes like consistency, density, pH, solids and temperature. Enters data on computer and generates reports as required.

Performs inventory of laboratory supplies. Orders laboratory supplies as needed and maintains the inventory book on a regular basis.

Inspects and calibrates all equipment used in the lab (scales, autoclave, thermometers, refractometers, refrigerators, incubators, etc.). Reports non-compliance findings and recommends next steps to the QA Supervisor and/or QA Manager in a timely manner.

Complies with and enforces GLP's (Good Laboratory Practices) and GMP's (Good Manufacturing Practices) in the lab.

Verifies all critical points of the HACCP program. (Receiving, Labeling, Shipping, Freezer Temperature)

Monitors the temperatures of all coolers and freezers present in the facility on a daily basis.

Performs environmental tests to determine efficacy of sanitation methods (Unilite and environmental samples). Generates reports regularly in a timely manner for the information of the concerned departments.

Places items (ingredients or finished products) that do not meet specification on HOLD. Presents next steps and recommends possible solution to the issue.

Maintains the cleanliness of the test equipment and utensils to Laboratory requirements.

Maintains the samples refrigerator clean and free of any non-micro related items.

Coordinates with the Sanitation Supervisor on cleaning and sanitation of the floor.

Attends and participates in all appropriate meetings.

BA or BS in Science Field (Microbiology, Food Technology, Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry or Environmental Science.
One year of previous laboratory experience.
Knowledge of basic micro techniques (aseptic sampling, dilutions, plating).
Ability to make laboratory math calculations like concentrations, titrations, etc.
Ability to read and interpret micro results.
Ability to read, write and speak English.
Basic computer knowledge (Access, Excel and Word).