Lead Quality Laboratory Analyst

Louis Dreyfus Company • Upper Sandusky, OH

1d • Onsite

About The Position

This position ensures the quality of products manufactured and distributed by a fully integrated soybean processing facility. The role supports and covers crew analysts in performing accurate and timely lab analysis on raw materials, in-process samples, finished products, and other samples as required. This role requires strong technical expertise to develop and improve analytical testing procedures, troubleshoot complex laboratory equipment issues, and assist in resolving process-related problems. This position plays a supporting role in training lab and operations staff and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives in the lab.

Requirements

• High School Diploma/GED
• Minimum 2 yrs. laboratory work experience in food and/or manufacturing
• Broad knowledge of laboratory processes, procedures, and equipment
• Broad knowledge of quality assurance testing methods
• Broad knowledge of plant production processes, procedures, and equipment
• Strong mathematical skills and the ability to use statistical software
• Ability to handle multiple tasks with accuracy and prioritize workload
• Proficiency with spreadsheet and word processing software (e.g., Excel and Word) and advanced reporting and statistical software, (Labware LIMS, Minitab)
• Ability to communicate in a professional manner both written and verbal
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Excellent attention to detail
• Is an active member of the facility SHE Program
• Comply with the laboratory safety program
• Maintains good working knowledge of SHE policies, rules, and procedures applicable to area of responsibility and adheres to all applicable requirements
• Completes required training for area assigned, and jobs and tasks prior to assigning work
• Shares in responsibility of maintaining the lab in an orderly and safe manner
• Reports unsafe working conditions to Laboratory Supervisor or Food Safety and Quality Manager immediately
• Maintains good working knowledge of Quality and Product Safety policies, rules and procedures applicable to area of responsibility and ensures all applicable requirements are adhered to
• Ensures employees are provided required training for area assigned, and jobs and tasks prior to assigning work
• Ensures area of responsibility is maintained in orderly and product safe manner
• Ensure unsafe product working conditions are remedied as soon as practicable
• Follows established laboratory procedures to ensure the safe and efficient operation of a laboratory to meet facility needs and production goals
• Works independently on routine duties but consults with supervisor on any problems or unusual test results
• Follows established testing methodologies to ensure accuracy and repeatability of results
• Communicate testing results to necessary parties to ensure quality and meet production standards
• Comply with governmental and company policies, regulations, and standards to ensure compliance

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or other science related fields
• Experience within a related oilseed/crush facility
• Training in or experience with continuous improvement programs (5S, 6 Sigma, Kaizen, etc.)
• Experience with standard laboratory testing equipment such as GC/HPLC, NIR, Karl-Fischer
• Experience performing wet chemistry analysis
• PCQI, HACCP, Internal auditor, or related certifications
• Knowledge of manufacturing regulatory and safety requirements (e.g., OSHA, PSM, EPA, BATF, and NDEQ)
• Knowledge of Quality Systems (i.e. FSSC22000)
• Knowledge of Quality Standards (ASTM, AOCS, ISO, EN, FDA)

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate proficiency and willingness to perform all laboratory tasks required for Quality Laboratory Analyst – Crew Position
• Possess in-depth knowledge of the chemistry involved in all tests performed, including but not limited to chemical reaction, chemical compatibility, and working understanding of lab equipment
• Perform routine laboratory tests of production and environmental samples to ensure the quality of final product
• Oversee daily lab operation samples when crew analysts are unavailable
• Oversee lab tasks related to routine swabbing, cleaning verification, and environmental monitoring program for operational areas
• Collect samples from operational areas as required
• Collect and ship samples as needed (e.g., referee sample, customer requests, 3rd party testing, etc.)
• Conduct regular soybean and meal testing using wet chemistry methods (e.g., protein, moisture, fat, fiber)
• Able to do maintenance of analyzers and conduct troubleshooting for lab equipment, software issues, etc. following written guidelines and SOPs or as needed
• Assist in development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for processes driven by the Laboratory Supervisor and for which laboratory staff are responsible
• Assist in training laboratory staff and operations staff on laboratory analyses and procedures
• Organize and oversee disposition of samples according to sample retention guidelines
• Maintain and complete calibrations/verification on schedule for all laboratory equipment
• Maintain and complete external testing on schedule for all samples
• Coordinate and prepare shipments of samples to ensure compliance with DOT, OSHA or other governmental or company regulations and requirements
• Generate and verify Certificates of Analysis (COAs) and other reports as required (e.g., final tanks, transloads, 3rd party, commingles, data sheets, etc.)
• Conduct regular checks of laboratory methods and equipment to ensure that standard operating procedures are followed, and standards are met
• Perform internal monthly/quarterly testing as required
• Contribute to the development and improvement of current and new analytical methods to increase efficiency and efficacy of laboratory operations
• Assist in maintaining laboratory supplies inventory to ensure efficient laboratory operations (e.g., chemical and consumable inventory checks, receiving materials/chemicals, organization of supplies)
• Assist in preparing chemicals/solutions as needed by the lab to ensure efficient laboratory operations
• Accepts/carries out/completes other duties as assigned by the Laboratory Supervisor or Quality Manger
• Enters laboratory test data into Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and generates reports as required
• Analyze production and certification samples and communicate results promptly to operations and management personnel
• Report out of spec or out of trend results to management
• Collect samples as required to maintain the environmental monitoring program
• Perform ATP testing as required in operational areas to ensure cleanliness
• Participates in cross-check testing with internal and external laboratories
• Works in a safe manner and follows all safety standards and procedures
• Ensure work area is kept clean and free from safety and environmental hazards
• Assist as needed in the investigation of any product quality issues
• Comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs), and Food Safety Management Systems, including FSSC 22000
• Understand and adhere to NOPA Trading Rules
• Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision
• Interact professionally with co-workers, company business associates, and the general public
• Work together in a cooperative spirit to serve the best interests of the company
• Operate in a fully responsible manner and comply with applicable laws, regulations, and company policies

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental and vision care coverage, flexible spending account plans, employee assistance program, life insurance and disability coverage
• 401k with Company Match
• Family Friendly Benefits including childbirth and parental leave, fertility and family building benefits
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays

What This Job Offers

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