Lab Technician

Description:*Overview:* We are looking for a Lab Tech on our PM shift from *4pm-4am 4 days a week*.
The position has primary responsibility for ensuring the quality of the product and finished goods being produced and that they meet all customer specifications by performing the laboratory testing and line verifications.
*Responsibilities:* Responsibilities and tasks are written as follows * Operate within safety and quality standards, good manufacturing practices (GMP’s) and adherence to job specifications.
* Responsible for reading, comprehending the job standards, meeting the quality standards and specifications for products (ie: coding, carbonation (if required), pressures, air, pH, brix, Caffeine (if required), acid, weights, temperatures, time and temperature, etc.
) * Monitor the operation of the production line to ensure that final product is to all specifications and without defects (daily line checks and sample collection).
* Segregate and place out of specification product on HOLD.
* Complete sensory testing (including flavor, visual and odor comparison) to match a referenced standard.
* Communicate effectively with production personnel in regard to line checks, adjustment requirements for meeting specifications, coding verification, etc.
* Operate, maintain and calibrate lab instrumentation/equipment.
* Follow all customer standards/specifications, quality requirements and Federal, State and Local regulations.
* Assist in maintaining housekeeping responsibilities within the lab and maintain work areas.
* Complete required documentation accurately and completely as required for the product being produced.
* Ability to verify and analyze batch attributes (includes analytical and taste/odor comparison) fill out batch paperwork and approve batches to the production line.
* Other duties of checking in HFCS/Sucrose/Concentrate tankers, water checks, micros, etc.
as required/scheduled.
* Maintain sample libraries (organized and clean) per company requirements.
* Other duties or responsibilities as assigned by management.
Requirements:*Qualifications:* To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
* High school diploma or equivalent is required or an Associate’s degree in chemistry or related field preferred.
* Previous laboratory or quality control experience required; with Food and Beverage industry preferred.
* A basic knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and policies is necessary to ensure a safe working environment.
* Required to fully comply with Quality Management System Policies and Procedures and Food Safety Management requirements.
* Must be able to work overtime as needed.
* Must be able to effectively communicate, read and comprehend instructions and procedures in English.
* Ability to demonstrate strong analytical skills with a high attention to detail.
* Ability to prioritize workload and accommodate shift in daily priorities based on the needs of the business.
* Ability to demonstrate a high sense of urgency and be proactive in addressing problems as they arise.
* Ability to calculate and understand basic math and simple formulas including but not limited to: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, averages, production rates and recirculation rates.
* Proficiency in basic computer data entry and document retrieval.
* Must attain Food Safety Training (Qualified Individual) *Physical Requirements:* The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
* Ability to perform physical requirements of the job (prolonged physical exertions, including standing, sitting, reaching, bending, pushing, pulling, lifting, carrying, and climbing), perform repetitive motions for extended period of time (up to 2-3 hours) and be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
* Required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as: preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; viewing a computer terminal; extensive reading; visual inspection involving small defects; using measurement devices at distances close to the eyes.
* Ability to work in various conditions with exposure to extreme heat, cold, dust and fumes.
* Physical dexterity is required to measure, pipette and transfer samples into plates and tubes.