What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality Lab Tech. Lead (Non-exempt) position at Ethos Pet Brands?
Company Overview: Ethos Pet Brands is the parent company of Natural Balance and Canidae pet brands. By joining forces under Ethos Pet Brands, these premium pet food brands strengthen their commitment to delivering the highest quality nutrition. We believe in the power of strong brands to connect with pet parents and create meaningful experiences.
The Lab Tech Lead will work out of our Brownwood, Texas manufacturing facility and report to the Quality Supervisor.
Position Summary
The Lab Tech Lead is responsible for performing analytical and microbiological testing to ensure pet food products and raw materials meet established quality and safety standards. This role supports production by providing timely and accurate data, communicating results to operators, and maintaining compliance with all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and safety policies.
Key Responsibilities
Sample Collection & Testing
Collect samples from designated production and receiving locations.
Perform analytical testing on collected samples, including GA (Guaranteed Analysis), color, size, and other quality parameters.
Document all analytical testing results in designated systems such as the GA Database and QA Reports.
Conduct microbiological testing on finished products to determine release status.
Communication & Collaboration
Communicate testing results to extruder operators, including any findings that fall outside specification.
Coordinate with receiving operators to communicate acceptance or rejection of inbound commodities based on test results.
Work collaboratively with production and quality teams to maintain consistent product quality.
Raw Material Verification
Review and verify Bills of Lading for incoming commodities, confirming purchase order accuracy, Certificates of Analysis (COA), and seal numbers.
Collect samples of incoming raw materials and perform mycotoxin testing to ensure compliance with established specifications.
Quality & Safety Compliance
Maintain knowledge and understanding of all facility Critical Control Points (CCPs).
Follow all safety procedures, sanitation requirements, and GMP policies at all times.
Stay updated on industry trends and emerging topics in the pet food sector.
Housekeeping & Documentation
Maintain a clean, organized retention room and shelf-life study area.
Ensure proper labeling, storage, and handling of all samples and documentation.
Other Duties
Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Must be willing to submit a background check and pre-employment drug screening.
Must be eligible to work in the U.S.
Essential Functions
Ability to push, pull, carry, or lift up to 50 lbs.
Ability to remain in a stationary position for up to 8 hours.
Ascend/descend a ladder or stairs daily.
Ability to operate a computer and other office technology.
Occasionally position self to access low spaces.
Ability to observe details at close range.
Must be able to work in area with exposure to loud noises.
Ability to work safely in areas with hazardous equipment and materials.
Must be able to relay accurate information via multiple communication vehicles including verbal and written mechanisms.
Must be able to work in extreme hot and cold temperatures.
Ethos is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.