Micro Lab Technician I

Wells Enterprises • Le Mars, IA

1d

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Micro Lab Technician I performs microbiological and chemical analyses on finished products, raw materials, processing samples, and environmental samples from manufacturing plants. The role conducts accurate laboratory testing to detect and enumerate organisms of interest by product in compliance with ISO 17025 regulatory standards and prepares media and reagents as needed.

The technician prepares and analyzes samples according to Standard Operating Procedures, FDA BAM procedures, and standard methods for the examination of dairy products. The role supports quality control and quality assurance of laboratory analyses, interprets and records test results, and reviews documentation for accuracy before results are shared with appropriate departments. It also covers proficiency testing, safe testing practices, media preparation and handling, equipment calibration and maintenance, inventory upkeep, and proper disposal of retained samples and biohazardous materials.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or Food Science, or an Associate’s degree with 1–3 years of experience (preferred).
• Must become 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 safely and effectively operate laboratory equipment.
• 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 documentation for accuracy before results are sent to appropriate departments.
• Perform proficiency testing on unknown specimens and allergens.
• Conduct testing according to 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 for the examination of dairy products, the FDA BAM Manual, and Wells' Corporate Lab Media SOPs to meet microbiology laboratory needs.
• Ensure media is properly handled, sterilized, and stored, and document media preparation according to microbiology SOPs.
• Perform daily, weekly, or monthly calibration checks of laboratory test equipment.
• Clean and maintain laboratory equipment, including pipettors, scales, metric dispensers, storage equipment, incubators, and refrigerators, and maintain general laboratory upkeep.
• Maintain inventories of laboratory supplies, media, and reagents.
• Properly dispose of retained samples and biohazardous materials.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits supporting health and financial wellness.
• Paid time off (PTO).
• Eligible employees may receive an annual incentive bonus based on company performance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level