Lab Technician, Overnight, Fresh Kitchen - Lakeland

Publix•Lakeland, FL
•$20 - $28•Onsite

About The Position

Publix is seeking a Lab Technician for its Fresh Kitchen manufacturing plant in Lakeland. The plant employs more than 450 associates who assemble sandwiches, subkits, platters, and meals according to Publix quality standards. The Lab Technician performs quality control inspections and testing, supports compliance with FDA regulations and plant procedures, and ensures accurate documentation throughout production, from receiving raw materials to shipping finished products. The role includes collecting and processing samples, evaluating products, auditing records and procedures, assisting associates across the plant, and being cross-trained in Quality Control responsibilities.

Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Be able to work with regulatory inspectors and other compliance officials.
  • Be dependable, able to work under pressure, and possess good follow-up skills.
  • Demonstrate work habits consistent with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and safe working practices.
  • Frequently lift more than 25 pounds.
  • Be able to learn and perform all positions and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Have good human relations skills, work well with others, and be a team player.
  • Be able to work any shift, including nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours.
  • Have excellent attendance and punctuality.
  • Be willing to assist team members in other areas.
  • Be able to perform steady, productive work for an extended period.
  • Work efficiently with little or no supervision.
  • Follow detailed written and verbal instructions.
  • Possess basic math skills and communicate effectively.
  • Show enthusiasm, initiative, and pride in work, and demonstrate commitment to Publix and its mission.

Nice To Haves

  • Working knowledge of Word, Outlook, Access, and Excel.
  • Two-year degree in science or a related field.
  • Retail baking experience.
  • Laboratory experience.

Responsibilities

  • Perform quality control inspections, including verifying ingredient and product information.
  • Perform operational and pre-operational inspections.
  • Ensure products are manufactured in accordance with FDA regulations, including traceability, temperature monitoring, and HACCP records.
  • Follow safety requirements and verify thermometer accuracy and product temperatures.
  • Collect, process, package, maintain, and retain samples for testing.
  • Provide assistance to associates in the Quality Control department and other plant departments.
  • Taste and evaluate product samples.
  • Become cross-trained in Quality Control responsibilities and familiar with all plant functions.
  • Complete responsibilities accurately from start to finish and maintain completed documentation.
  • Record and process received samples.
  • Process and record customer complaints.
  • Conduct compliance audits and audit and update the plant reference book.
  • Perform data entry.
  • Ensure products are manufactured according to correct procedures from raw-material receipt through finished-product shipping.

Benefits

  • Holiday bonus based on years of continuous employment and continued employment through the bonus check issue date.
  • $2.00 per hour weekend differential for hours worked between 12:00 a.m. Saturday and 11:59 p.m. Sunday.
  • $0.75 per hour night differential for associates regularly scheduled to work any hours between midnight and 3:00 a.m.
  • Employee stock ownership plan that contributes Publix stock to associates each year at no cost.
  • Opportunity to purchase additional shares of privately held stock.
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan.
  • Group health, dental, and vision plans.
  • Paid Time Off.
  • Paid Parental Leave.
  • Short- and long-term disability insurance.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Free hot lunches at facilities with a cafeteria.
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