What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality Control Lab Technician - Food Manufacturing position at I. Rice & Company, Inc.?
An independent, family-owned business in Philadelphia, I. Rice & Co. has been making quality food products and flavors since 1884. With considerable growth and expansion, we are looking for qualified employees to help in a variety of positions. As a food manufacturing plant, I. Rice & Co. offers a diverse range of employment opportunities, from production coordination to warehouse stocking and inventory organization. With a passionate community, competitive pay, and generous bonus incentives, I. Rice offers ample opportunity for personal and professional growth.
QUALITY CONTROL LAB TECHNICIAN
The Quality Control Lab Technician supports laboratory operations, product quality assurance, and production processes. This hands-on position is responsible for performing laboratory testing on raw materials, in-process products, finished goods, and environmental samples to ensure compliance with food safety, quality, customer, and regulatory standards. The role is ideal for someone who is detail-oriented, adaptable, and interested in supporting quality assurance processes in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Essential Job and Duties
- Perform routine laboratory analyses on raw materials, work-in-process, and finished products.
- Conduct analytical testing including, but not limited to:
o Brix (soluble solids)
o pH
o Titratable acidity
o Viscosity
o Specific gravity
o Color evaluation
o Product Sensory
- Collect and evaluate production samples according to established sampling plans.
- Perform environmental monitoring and sanitation verification testing.
- Calibrate and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment.
- Prepare laboratory reagents, standards, and testing solutions.
- Record test results accurately in laboratory databases and quality management systems.
- Assist in product evaluations, shelf-life studies, and validation activities.
- Verify compliance with GMPs, HACCP, SQF, FDA, customer specifications, and internal quality standards.
- Support internal, customer, and third-party audits.
- Maintain laboratory cleanliness and organization
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and root cause investigations.
- Perform additional quality-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- 1–3 years of laboratory experience in a food manufacturing environment preferred.
- Knowledge of GMPs, HACCP, SQF, and FDA regulations preferred.
- Associate degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related scientific field preferred.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Excellent mathematical and analytical abilities.
- Ability to interpret product specifications and testing procedures.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to prioritize multiple tasks while maintaining accuracy.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
Work Environment
- Combination of laboratory and production floor settings
- May require standing for extended periods and lifting materials 50 lbs.
- Adherence to safety, quality, and sanitation standards is essential
Benefits and Compensation
- Weekly pay with direct deposit
- Health insurance
- Various supplemental insurance policies available after 90-day introductory period
- Life insurance available after completion of 90-day introductory period
- 401-K retirement plan available after one year of employment
- Option to participate in uniform program
- Annual bonus incentives
I. Rice is an equal opportunity employer and derives our staff skills through a diverse and talented workforce. This person will work closely with all departments and persons in our facility and must conduct themselves professionally at all times.