Lead Quality Lab Tech

Job Summary In addition to performing duties consistent with the QC QAP Technician position this individual shall oversee the day-to-day QAP Lab functions and assist the QC/QAP Supervisor in observing, reporting activities and problem solving. This position works within the set limits of standards for food safety, 5S, GLP, FDA GMP's, Housekeeping, HACCP, and US Federal Food Defense requirements.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Calibrate equipment and sanitize sampling apparatus daily, weekly, or periodically as required. Run oil blanks. 2. Guides the training process for new and "in-training" QC QAP technicians. 3. The Lead QC QAP technician will also provide food safety and personnel safety training and lead the Department in pre-shift safety meetings and provide the focus on food safety and personnel safety to all other QC QAP technicians. 4. The Lead QC QAP Technician will be responsible for communicating any critical Quality Control data or information and any serious personnel issues to the QC Supervisor which shall include any job performance issues for the QC QAP Lab Technicians. 5. The Lead QC QAP Technician will oversee the inventory of lab supplies and notify the QC Supervisor of supply needs. 6. Using experience and training, the Lead QC QAP Technician will assist the QC QAP Supervisor in any various troubleshooting or problem-solving situations that arise. 7. Perform product grading and analysis during production (tankers, drums, cartons, Aseptic bins, and tank farms) according to USDA checklist. Notify plant and lab supervisor if analysis is out of specification. (USDA, FDACS, FCC, Buyer's Spec's) 8. Oversee and assist USDA inspector in collecting samples from imported tankers, and fill all documents and records, generate report, and distribute by email. Communicate with supervisor/manager for quality concerns. 9. Conduct a variety of qualitative and quantitative tests to determine physical or chemical properties of products and by-products to ensure compliance with company or government quality standards and to compile statistical data. Record results and report to management. Generate score sheets daily and distribute. 10. Perform sanitation tours and plant clean-up inspections with documentation and follow-up. Monitor tanker inspection, filling, sealing, and temperature. 11. Save samples for QC Bags and Cups (Micro, Viscosity, retain samples, flavor samples and QAP Verification samples) and identify and retain samples for storage. Place samples from QAP in applicable retain storage areas for historical tracking and storage. Maintain and organize retain sample storage area. 12. Compile bill of lading, shipping manifest, tank farm reports, mail from WHAO and paperwork for billing report. Pick up and deliver paperwork, record required information on related reports and log sheets, and file or dispose of material as directed. 13. Clean laboratory area, materials, and equipment and prepare samples, seals, tubes, labels, and paperwork according to procedure. 14. Prepare, refill, and stock lab reagents, testing and sanitizing solutions, and supplies. 15. Maintain knowledge of the organization's safety policies and practices. Follow fire and safety rules, keep work environment and equipment in safe operating order and perform all job duties in compliance with stated safety policies and procedures. 16. Perform sampling from vessel tanks. 17. Deliver samples to USDA office, or customers' facility. 18. Be able to work in cold environment, for example, freezers, juice storage rooms, etc. 19. Perform all tasks according to the Safety procedures for the lab equipment. 20. Each lab tech is responsible to inform supervisor of any safety concerns. 21. Safety procedures also to be conducted during operational sampling at the port. 22. All other duties as assigned

OTHER DUTIES MAY INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO

1. Attend and participate in a variety of meetings, training sessions, and task force groups as directed and maintain required level of knowledge pertaining to operating procedures, requirements, processes, and policies. 2. Follow safety rules, ensure safe operating conditions are followed within area of responsibility, wear required personal protective equipment and clothing, and keep work area in clean and orderly condition. 3. Perform or assist with any assignments as required or directed. 4. Participate in general plant cleaning and daily sanitation routines in any assigned area or operation.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Use computer, peripherals, chemicals, laboratory equipment, charts, tables, scales, gauges, meters, hydrometer, measuring equipment and required personal protective equipment and clothing. Be able to drive safely in and outside of the plant.

EXPERIENCE

College Degree or specialized field experience Minimum 2 years' work experience in Food Science. Citrus background preferred

Pay:

$18.00 - $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person