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:

3+ years of manufacturing experience, preferably in a quality function; strong math and communication skills needed to read and follow written procedures. Minimum2+years of experience working in a food testing/food safety laboratory. Requires a good understanding of GMPs, HACCP, and SQF guidelines. Requires the ability to communicate with others and the desire and willingness to work closely within a group of individuals. Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Strong trainingand coaching skills, with experience mentoring entry-level lab technicians. Ability to write, review, andmaintainSOPs and lab documentation. Ability to compile and analyze trending data,identifydeviations, andinitiatecorrective actions. Strong problem analysis skills, teamwork, creativity; ability to read, write, speak, and understand the English language. Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize.

Responsibilities:

Maintaining the cleanliness and sterility of the lab environment

• Maintaining and operating laboratory equipment
• Perform aseptic sampling technique of finished products that require microbiological analysis
• Perform log entrance of all samples tested
• Perform microbiological or chemical analysis
• KnowledgeonAOAC testing methods.
• Perform tests on environmental samples taken from food contact surfaces
• Follow the sampling schedule and collect samples of raw materials and water samples
• Perform environmental samples of equipment for TPC, coliform, Yeast/Molds
• Take samples and perform analysis for Listeria environmental sampling
• Documenting, interpreting, and reporting test results to departmental managers
• Work in conjunction with the departmental manager and sanitation supervisor on corrective actions
• Prepare samples to send to the third-party lab whenrequired
• Prepare COA per customer needs
• Participate inproficiencytesting program
• Maintain inventory and reorder lab supplies as needed Work independently with minimal oversight, exercising sound judgment on daily lab operations
• Train and onboard entry-level lab technicians on lab procedures and protocols
• Write, revise, andmaintainSOPs for laboratory testing and sampling procedures
• Coach QA technicians on the production floor on proper micro sampling technique
• Compile and analyze trending reports on lab and environmental data
• Identifydeviations from established standards andinitiatecorrective actions
• Help with QA duties if the department is short of staff

Denotes Food Safety Job Education/Experience:

Requires a high school diploma; an associate degree is a plus Minimum2+years food lab experiencerequired Prior experience training or mentoring others preferred Computer literate