FSQA Laboratory Technician

Reports to: FSQA Manager Department: FSQA, Plant 2

Classification: Non-Exempt Division: Diestel Turkey Ranch

Date: 12/21/2022 Approved: 12/21/2022

BASIC FUNCTIONS:

Under the direction of the Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for the operation of the QA Lab.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform in house lab testing for Plant 1 & 2 to meet or exceed requirements in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs) and ISO 17025.
• Follow testing frequency protocols, defined by our food safety programs and FSQA Management.
• Prepare broth solutions for the enrichment of biopathogens of food safety concern.
• Prepare samples for testing, to include environmental swabs in media solution, product samples (raw not ground, raw ground and ready-to-eat), biosponges, organ, poult pads, water and ice.
• Perform test protocols with a high degree of precision in a fast-paced environment.
• Perform test methods / techniques, including Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Simplate, Singlepath, Agar Plate and Antibiotic Swab Detection.
• Maintain a test schedule with an overlap of test methods at varying stages of the process running simultaneously.
• Maintain impeccable records for test results, calibration, lab protocols, SDSs, equipment manuals, supply certificates and any other records related to the lab.
• Ensure testing protocols and test results are maintained, up to date at all times, legible and available for viewing by management and inspectors.
• Ensure the lab is in compliance with ISO 17025.
• Process waste according to GLPs.
• Facilitate, perform and ensure backup Lab Technician(s) perform lab proficiency testing on an annual basis for all test methods. Maintain proficiency test records and ensure results meet or exceed laboratory standards.
• Maintain inventory system on at least a weekly basis and ensure there is an adequate supply of consumable items at all times.
• Order supplies, review pricing and fees, receive supplies and maintain lab budget spreadsheet.
• Research and locate options for any equipment needs, as needed.
• Interface with lab supply representatives and technical support, when needed.
• Troubleshoot any equipment issues, which may require collecting information from equipment manuals and manufacturers.
• Maintain equipment by performing recommended user service and cleaning protocols at frequencies recommended by the manufacturer or our programs.
• Maintain the lab space in a sanitary state at all times, with periodic deep cleaning of the space and instruments.
• Responsible for developing, implementing and maintaining a current and accurate shelf life study program.
• Assist FSQA Manager in the ongoing development of lab management systems.
• Communicate and work with USDA and audit inspectors regarding test results and lab test related inquiries.
• Participate in audits by providing lab records and communicating any lab-related inquiries.
• Be an integral player in the company Safety Program.
• Assists in collection of samples and ensures all required samples are received on time. Supply specified materials as required or as directed.
• Maintain communication with the FSQA Manager regarding test results, equipment or testing issue and potential areas for improvement.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• B.S. in Biology or related scientific field, preferred.
• 2 years of experience in a lab environment preferred.
• HACCP Certification desirable.
• Biological lab skills, including pipetting, plating, autoclaving, etc.
• Familiarity with lab equipment to include PCR machines, autoclaves, pumps, incubators, centrifuges.
• Display critical thinking and troubleshooting skills.
• Proficiant in MS Excel, MS Word, email communication and ability to use on online systems.
• Ability to communicate affectively in both written and oral form.
• Ability to speak Spanish is desireable but not mandatory.
• Must be able to follow detailed instructions.
• Work well with minimal supervision.
• Ability to perform trend analysis for quarterly & annual reviews
• Must have a cooperative, constructive, respectful attitude, and must be able to work as a team member

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Regularly required to stand; use hands to fingers, handle or feel objects or tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
• Regularly required to walk, sit and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Occasionally lifts up to 50 lbs.
• Vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Primary works in in-house laboratory.
• May works near moving mechanical parts and is regularly exposed to wet and/or humid conditions and may be exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals.
• May be exposed to fumes or airborne particles.
• Noise level in the work environment may be higher than normal.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person