Lab Assistant- Nights (D Crew)

HP Hood•Winchester, VA

16h•$25 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

This is an entry-level position into the lab to train individuals on testing protocols and importance of accurate data collection as it pertains to quality. The primary responsibility is to pull all required samples in the established time periods allowing laboratory to be able to identify product issues as they are running on the line. This position is required to be knowledgeable in basic lab quality control skills and be able to identify quality issues on the lines and report to proper personnel. The culture is built on value commitments to innovation, quality, results, integrity, community, people, and collaboration that fosters a strong employee engagement, teamwork, safety and wellness. HP Hood is one of the largest and most trusted food and beverage manufacturers in the United States.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent
Basic knowledge of lab set up in order to pull and properly handle samples for chemical, microbiological, retains and shelf life analysis of all dairy and non-dairy products.
Knowledgeable in basic lab quality control skills.
Ability to identify quality issues on the lines and report to proper personnel.
Standing: Long periods (a minimum of 8+ hours)
Walking: Long periods
Bending: Frequently
Lifting: Light (25 - 40 lbs.) frequently
Carrying: Light (50 - 60 lbs.) frequently
Pushing/Pulling: Light – Heavy (40 – 150 lbs) with a cart
Must be able to pull Serac lines in 20-minute intervals and Paper lines in 30-minute intervals
Adapts to changes in the work environment
Strong written and verbal communication
Exhibits ability to learn and apply new skills
Work effectively with team members to accomplish department and plant goals
Employment is subject to verification of an applicant’s identity and eligibility for employment in the United States as required by immigration laws.

Nice To Haves

Science training and/or dairy experience preferred
Knowledge of food standards and handling, HACCP, preferred

Responsibilities

Pull all required samples in the established time periods allowing laboratory to be able to identify product issues as they are running on the line.
Verify that product meets the required specifications on the line, such as codes, packaging, absence of leakers, etc. and that operator, coordinators and laboratory resources as well as senior techs are aware of any deviations when they are noted.
Run and interpret the results on various tests including vacuum checks, temperature, appearance, weights, code date verifications, packaging checks, seal check verification, pH or T.A., coffee testing, shelf life verification, pulling retains for customer complaints, flavor, odor, peroxide checks on Evergreen packaging, Oxonia tests on Serac for POAA levels, spin tests, pre-setting the carts in incubators for microbiological testing, calibrations and standards.
Responsible for the daily cleanup and review of racking systems in the incubators and coolers. Also must set up racks before the lines start.
Maintain lab in a clean and organized fashion which includes removal of trash, consolidating and organizing supplies, wiping down counters, equipment and walls, sweeping, mopping, etc. prior to end of shift.
Involvement in team-oriented processes in order to ascertain improvements within the lab and plant.
Comply with performance criteria, standards of conduct, employment procedures and responsibilities as described in the HP Hood Guidebook and applicable site supplement.
Adhere to all safety and environmental protocols, procedures and training. Maintain a safe work environment at all times and immediately report and take appropriate action to correct safety concerns.
Comply with all Good Manufacturing Practices, including GMP dress code standards.
Responsible for reporting to work in a condition to work at scheduled times and communicating tardiness and absences according to the Call-Off Procedure and Attendance Policy.
Maintaining food safety and food quality through completing job tasks and maintaining the work area in a sanitary manner.
Monitoring of incoming goods & services.
Report food safety problems to personnel with authority to initiate action.
Supporting the Corrective and Preventative Action Program, Finished Product and Raw Material Release Program, Coordinating the Internal Audit Program, Customer Complaint Program, and Conducting Mock Recalls.