Micro Lab Technician III

Well Enterprises•Le Mars, IA

About The Position

In addition to the accountabilities listed for the Micro Lab Technician II role, independently performs microbiological and chemical analysis on finished product, raw materials, processing and environmental samples from manufacturing plants. Provides accurate and advanced laboratory testing to detect and enumerate organisms of interest by product in compliance with the ISO 17025 regulatory standards. Prepares media and reagents as required. Performs supervisory function in absence of lab supervisor and uses theoretical/critical thinking when evaluating test errors. In consultation with the lab supervisor, makes decisions in regard to interpretation/troubleshooting with test anomalies and develops corrective actions and solutions. Analyzes and interprets laboratory data with generated lab reports such as Excel graphs and/or charts. Reviews and follows current literature to maintain and stay current on technologies in the field of microbiology. Conducts compliance reviews for all paperwork and documentation errors with proper personnel. Areas of compliance to include: media, pathogens, ice cream testing, allergen testing, fridge and incubators, heating blocks. Ensures all lab supplies are available to the technicians and orders supplies when needed. Performs supervisory duties and completes scheduling in the absence of the lab supervisor. Updates weekly laboratory environmental swabbing database and verifies that all sites are tested once a month. Ensures all documentation is kept in storage for 2 years and discards out-of-date paperwork. Participates in audits and assists in creating CA and PA’s for any deficiencies.

Requirements

Comprehensive knowledge of the practices and principles of laboratory operations, techniques and procedures utilized in areas of microbiology and chemistry.
Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
Strong leadership, collaboration and team development skills.
Lab and Computer experience (Microsoft Office).
Strong attention to detail, process flow and accuracy.
Uses keen observations skills and good judgment to catch and prevent lab analysis errors.
Ability to train and mentor technicians.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in the areas of Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or Food Science is preferred.
Minimum 1 year experience equivalent to Tech 2 or based on competencies per assessment of management.

Responsibilities

Independently performs microbiological and chemical analysis on finished product, raw materials, processing and environmental samples from manufacturing plants.
Provides accurate and advanced laboratory testing to detect and enumerate organisms of interest by product in compliance with the ISO 17025 regulatory standards.
Prepares media and reagents as required.
Performs supervisory function in absence of lab supervisor and uses theoretical/critical thinking when evaluating test errors.
In consultation with the lab supervisor, makes decisions in regard to interpretation/troubleshooting with test anomalies and develops corrective actions and solutions.
Analyzes and interprets laboratory data with generated lab reports such as Excel graphs and/or charts.
Reviews and follows current literature to maintain and stay current on technologies in the field of microbiology.
Conducts compliance reviews for all paperwork and documentation errors with proper personnel.
Ensures all lab supplies are available to the technicians and orders supplies when needed.
Performs supervisory duties and completes scheduling in the absence of the lab supervisor.
Updates weekly laboratory environmental swabbing database and verifies that all sites are tested once a month.
Ensures all documentation is kept in storage for 2 years and discards out-of-date paperwork.
Participates in audits and assists in creating CA and PA’s for any deficiencies.
Safely and effectively operate lab equipment.
Accurately evaluate color shades and quality.
Recommend and implement corrective actions and process improvements.