Laboratory Technologist

Simmons Foods•Siloam Springs, AR

20h•Onsite

About The Position

Responsible for accurate and timely processing of microbiology and chemistry testing for all 3 divisions within Simmons Foods, INC. This is a Salary Non-Exempt position. The role involves testing raw and finished products and environmental samples, preparing samples, and strictly following testing procedures with aseptic technique. Planning and prioritizing daily tasks are essential. Communicating results accurately and timely, both electronically and by hard copy, is crucial, requiring verification before release. The ability to interpret bacterial growth for microbiological tests is necessary. The position also requires active participation in improving the quality management system to maintain lab accreditation by eliminating errors, ensuring quality control procedures are followed, and completing required monthly safety training. Daily laboratory housekeeping duties are also part of the role. Assisting in training new team members and working on a rotating schedule within the laboratory are expected. Completing annual individual and team goals, as directed by senior leadership, is also a responsibility. The role requires participation in the ongoing development, communication, and implementation of team concepts, programs, and policies, fostering cohesiveness and resolving issues collaboratively. Familiarity with Simmons’ established operating systems (quality, security, office environment, company policies) and understanding the responsibility to maintain this familiarity and communicate concerns or improvement ideas is important. Performs other duties as necessary in support of business objectives.

Requirements

Accurate and timely processing of microbiology and chemistry testing.
Strictly follow all steps in the testing process utilizing aseptic technique.
Effectively communicate in English (both written and verbal).
Working knowledge of current laboratory procedures involving Pathogens, Quality Indicator bacteria and/or chemistry analysis.
Computer skills, including functional knowledge of Microsoft Suite with an emphasis on Excel.
Must be able to pass a company issued laboratory test and color-blind test.
Must be able to work in various temperatures.
Must be able to perform repetitive motions for extended periods of time (pipetting, pouring media, etc.).
Must be able to stand for a minimum of 6 hours of the shift.
Must be able to lift and carry 40lb packages or trash bags over short distances and up/down stairs.
Lab coat must be always worn while in the laboratory.
Safety glasses and gloves and any other protective equipment as needed.
Must wear closed heel and toe shoes.

Nice To Haves

Microbiology food laboratory experience preferred.
Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, biology, food science, chemistry or any science related field.

Responsibilities

Test raw and finished products and environmental samples for microbiology and/or chemistry testing.
Receive and prepare samples for testing and ensure all steps in the testing process are strictly followed utilizing aseptic technique.
Plan and prioritize all daily tasks.
Communicate results to customers by ensuring accurate and timely result entry.
Accurately verify results before they are released to the customer.
Correctly interpret bacterial growth to provide accurate results for some microbiological tests.
Actively participate in improving the quality management system to maintain lab accreditation by eliminating errors from the lab processes.
Ensure quality control procedures are followed for all processes, equipment and inventory management systems including bacterial cultures.
Complete required monthly safety training.
Assist with daily laboratory housekeeping duties such as washing dishes, dusting and mopping.
Assist in training new team members.
Work on individual task rotation as well as be part of the larger team daily.
Complete annual goals which consist of individual and team goals as directed by senior leadership.
Participate as a member of the Team, fostering strong cohesiveness and resolving issues.
Maintain familiarity with Simmons’ established operating systems and understand the responsibility to communicate concerns and improvement ideas.
Perform other duties as necessary in support of business objectives.