Lead Lab Tech

Lesaffre North America • Town of Brussels, WI

9d

About The Position

The Lead Lab Tech conducts chemical and physical analyses of raw materials and yeast, along with microbiological analyses of in-process and finished products. The role interacts with other departments to obtain samples, explain maintenance needs, and request laboratory supplies. The position also coordinates weekend laboratory activities and serves as a contact for troubleshooting, including equipment maintenance and out-of-specification results.

The role requires accurate, consistent testing in accordance with written procedures; preparation of pure-culture yeast and chemical solutions; equipment and workspace upkeep; and support for processing areas. The Lead Lab Tech also leads and guides coworkers and must be able to work with minimal supervision while handling multiple tasks.

Requirements

• Associate degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science, or a related field is required.
• Ability to prioritize and organize tasks throughout the day.
• Ability to independently decide when to repeat tests.
• Ability to follow written procedures and work in an organized, precise, observant, and efficient manner with minimal supervision.
• Ability to perform several tasks simultaneously while maintaining accurate timing and procedures.
• Ability to lead a team and provide guidance to coworkers.
• Detail-oriented and safety-minded.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree or two years of chemistry-related laboratory experience preferred.
• Computer knowledge is helpful, especially Microsoft 365.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate commitment to the company’s safety-first culture by following safety protocols and participating in required safety programs.
• Coordinate and lead weekend laboratory activities, including reviewing data, requesting retests, ensuring timely clearances, and conducting special testing.
• Troubleshoot issues, including equipment maintenance and out-of-specification results.
• Conduct microbiological analyses of samples and prepare pure-culture yeast for use in fermentations.
• Conduct tests including nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, color, percentage of buds, dry matter, sugar, and Brix; calculate results and record them in appropriate logbooks.
• Conduct chemical and physical analyses of raw materials and yeast, including in-process and finished products.
• Test yeast activity using a Risograph.
• Follow written procedures to test different types of dough using different yeast lots or types.
• Maintain equipment and the general work area, including cleaning and calibrating equipment, recording maintenance, checking equipment function, and keeping the area clean and orderly.
• Properly use and maintain laboratory equipment and supplies, including analytical balances, centrifuges, mixers, drying ovens, pH meters, color meters, stir plates, labware, Risographs, spectrophotometers, distillation units, mineralization units, fume hoods, chemicals, incubators, water baths, thermometers, titrators, YSI 2700D, LECO, and Elementar equipment.
• Prepare chemical solutions for processing areas and ensure those areas are stocked with needed solutions.
• Perform tests accurately and consistently according to procedures.
• Complete bi-annual proficiency tests.
• Repeat analyses when results are uncertain or unusual.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Day-one medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) with 4% match and an additional discretionary employer contribution.
• 11 paid holidays.
• 80 hours of vacation time and 48 hours of sick time annually.
• Life insurance and AD&D.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree