Micro Lab Technician I

Well Enterprises•Le Mars, IA

20h

About The Position

At Wells Enterprises, a Ferrero Company, the Micro Lab Technician I works under general supervision in Quality Assurance. The role performs microbiological and chemical analyses of finished products, raw materials, processing samples, and environmental samples from manufacturing plants. It provides accurate laboratory testing to detect and enumerate organisms of interest by product in compliance with ISO 17025 regulatory standards. The technician also prepares media and reagents as needed. The position follows Standard Operating Procedures, FDA BAM procedures, standard methods for examining dairy products, and applicable laboratory safety and quality practices. It includes preparing and documenting media, maintaining and calibrating equipment, managing laboratory supplies, and properly disposing of retained samples and biohazardous materials. The role reports to the Corporate Lab Supervisor and has no direct or indirect reports.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or Food Science, or an Associate’s degree with 1–3 years of experience is preferred.
Must be fully trained in all laboratory testing and reading, and complete all on-the-job safety training.
Knowledge of basic laboratory operations, techniques, and procedures used in microbiology and chemistry.
Effective teamwork and written and verbal communication skills.
Strong attention to detail, process flow, and accuracy.
Laboratory and computer skills, including Microsoft Office.
Ability to operate laboratory equipment safely and effectively.
Ability to accurately evaluate color shades and quality.
Ability to function in a fast-paced work environment.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or Food Science.
Associate’s degree with 1–3 years of experience.

Responsibilities

Prepare and analyze samples according to Standard Operating Procedures, FDA BAM procedures, and Standard Methods for the Examination of Dairy Products.
Perform quality control and quality assurance procedures for laboratory analyses.
Read, interpret, record, and report laboratory test results accurately.
Review laboratory documentation for accuracy before results are sent to appropriate departments.
Perform proficiency testing on unknown specimens and allergens.
Conduct testing using good laboratory practices and prescribed safety principles, including pathogen testing, bacterial confirmations, special request testing, allergen testing, and quantitative analysis.
Prepare media according to AOAC standard methods, the FDA BAM Manual, and Wells' Corporate Lab Media SOPs; handle, sterilize, store, and document media appropriately.
Perform daily, weekly, or monthly calibration checks of laboratory test equipment.
Clean and maintain laboratory equipment and perform general laboratory upkeep.
Maintain inventories of laboratory supplies, media, and reagents.
Properly dispose of retained samples and biohazardous materials.