Lab Technician

BASIC FUNCTION AND SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITIES: Lab Technicians / Microbiologists ensure that quality standards and procedures are met and aligned with company and customer specifications as well as government regulations. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: Work closely with the QA Coordinator to develop key microbiological and food safety related strategic initiatives that both, ensure product protection & contribute to business growth.

Assist in developing and implementing programs and appropriately communicate scientific & technically based microbiological and food safety information to Management. Provide focused microbiological expertise for microbiologically sensitive product category to ensure appropriate risk management. Responsible for all technical aspects of the section including testing, instrumentation and quality.

Responsible for assisting QA Coordinator in taking environmental testing samples coordinating with outside labs for analysis as needed. Receives all chemical and lab supplies, then organizes and stores. Maintains glassware by picking up, cleaning, washing, sterilizing, and distributing. Documents information by maintaining daily logs and equipment record books.

Assist in controlling laboratory supplies and reagents. Assist with general testing and analysis. Calibration of lab equipment in preparation for specific tasks. Preparing bottles and reagents. Cleaning and maintenance of counters, floor, equipment. Assist with samples preparation and shipping. Collect samples from the tank farms and vessel tanks whenever is required.

Collect samples from drumming, loading, off-loading, blending when required. Comply with all laboratory and plant regulations.

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, chemistry or biology preferred. TRAINING, SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE: 3 years experience in applied microbiology, chemistry or biology preferred. In-depth product micro & product safety /food technology knowledge, Must have excellent analytical and problem solving skills; good math skills; written and verbal communication skills; and perform multiple tasks at the same time; read, understand, and follow precise written instructions, be tactful, organized and dependable and be able to work overtime as needed.

Must be able to work without direct supervision. Fully trained in microbiological techniques. Must be well trained in all aspects of QA Micro & Chemical Lab, proven record of competence and skills that ensure precise analytical work, initiative and dependability. Profound knowledge of quality systems/processes. Demonstrated organizational and project management skills.

Ability to provide knowledge leadership, company representation and sound technical expertise in the management of micro issues. Mature interpersonal and communication skills which facilitate the ability to negotiate and convince others while supporting the decision process on complex matters. WORKING CONDITIONS: Working conditions can be an office, plant or vessel environment.

Must be able to do work in the cold and heat, moving equipment, fumes, dust, wetness, toxic chemicals, etc, wearing proper P.P.E. as necessary. Could be expected to work in wet, or rainy conditions. Walking and climbing, mobility to all areas of a multi-leveled production facility or vessel with heights up to 50 feet.