Food Safety & Quality Assurance Laboratory Technologist

Smithfield Foods • Crete, NE

18h • Onsite

About The Position

The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section. At Smithfield Foods, you're not just starting a job — you're building a career with purpose. As the world’s largest pork processor and leading hog producer in the U.S., we’re a $16 billion global food leader with over 55,000 team members and growing. We’re seeking passionate, detail-oriented individuals to join our quality team as Laboratory Technologists. In this role, you’ll conduct a variety of laboratory tests to monitor food safety and product quality, including microbiological sampling, temperature checks, leaker detection, and sanitation verification. You’ll be responsible for accurately recording test data, interpreting results, and ensuring compliance with company and regulatory standards. You’ll maintain proper documentation and contribute to critical programs like HACCP, USDA compliance, and GMP adherence. You’ll play a key role in daily pre-operational inspections, and product traceability. If you thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on setting and want to help deliver trusted brands like Smithfield®, Eckrich®, and Nathan’s Famous® to millions of tables, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact — safely, reliably, and with pride.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or general education degree (GED), required.
• Demonstrated technical knowledge in quality systems and regulatory compliance.
• Must be able to read, write, and complete all required documentation in English.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree and 2+ years of relevant experience preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating procedures, and technical manuals.
• Accurate data entry of test results into databases.
• Proficient with basic laboratory equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work effectively in a fast-paced team environment.
• Knowledge of quality assurance, food safety, and regulatory standards (USDA, HACCP, SSOP); HACCP and SQF certifications are a plus.
• Excellent communication skills for interacting with regulatory agencies, customers, and team members.
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities with conflict resolution skills.
• Experience drafting and interpreting SOPs and technical documents.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and standard business software.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine microbiological and chemical tests with precision, following established protocols to ensure product safety and quality.
• Play an active role in quality assurance by identifying opportunities for process improvements and contributing to initiatives that enhance lab efficiency and accuracy.
• Enter test data accurately into our digital systems and generate reports that provide essential information to management. These reports will support key operational decisions and continuous improvement.
• Receive and prepare samples by grinding and setting up tests, as well as prepare media needed for analysis.
• Carefully read and interpret test results and document critical equipment performance metrics, such as incubator temperatures, to guarantee accuracy.
• Enter test data accurately into our digital systems and generate reports that provide essential information to management, supporting informed decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Actively collaborate with team members to foster a supportive and efficient work environment.
• Participate in training initiatives to develop your skills and assist in cross-training others.
• Provide coverage to ensure all lab functions continue seamlessly when needed.

Benefits

• Robust, flexible and affordable benefit plans and programs
• Medical plans with out-of-pocket costs, on average, 20 percent less than plans offered by other employers
• Be Well programs offer tools and resources to enhance your quality of life, at no additional cost
• Support for elective surgeries, weight loss, mental health, cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, smoking cessation, asthma, maternity management and more
• Comprehensive training and professional development programs
• LinkedIn Learning access for on-demand courses, professional certificates, and skill-based training
• Tuition assistance covering English language learning, high school completion, and degree programs through partnership with Guild
• Leadership development initiatives
• Smithfield Scholarship Program for employees’ children

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED