Quality Assurance Lab Assistant -- Nampa

HB Specialty Foods•Nampa, ID

About The Position

The QA Lab Assistant tests products to specification and reports results in a timely manner. The role requires accuracy, precision, organization, and effective communication, and works closely with Quality Assurance and Quality Control teams to provide accurate product results. The Lab Assistant supports food safety, product quality, and continuous improvement of the quality program. This position is offered on day shift (5:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m.) at $17 per hour or swing shift (1:00 p.m.–9:30 p.m.) at $18.50 per hour, including a $1.50 shift differential. Overtime is available as needed. The work takes place in a food facility that handles allergens and includes open environments with pungent odors and varying climates. Physical requirements include walking, standing, stooping, climbing, lifting up to 35 pounds at times, and prolonged computer work.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED preferred.
At least 2 years of experience in a laboratory or food quality testing preferred.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent time-management skills and a demonstrated ability to meet deadlines.
Ability to work in cross-functional teams.
Demonstrated basic mathematics ability.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel.
Detailed analytical abilities.
Ability to work in a facility that handles allergens including wheat, soy, egg, milk, celery, and mustard.
Ability to walk, stand, stoop, climb, lift up to 35 pounds at times, and sit at a desk and work on a computer for prolonged periods.
Ability to work in open environments with pungent odors and varying climates.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or GED.
At least 2 years of experience in a laboratory or food quality testing.

Responsibilities

Keep laboratories clean and organized by following good laboratory practices.
Clean and sanitize laboratory equipment.
Prepare and test samples according to SOPs, including testing for color, aroma, viscosity, moisture, and salt.
Collect and perform testing for the environmental monitoring and water testing programs.
Collect and perform microbiology testing of products, including APC, yeast, and mold.
Collect and prepare samples for third-party testing and maintain an accurate, timely shipment schedule.
Analyze test results, report them, and record findings.
Maintain current, accessible, and accurate records.
Record and maintain laboratory equipment calibration results.
Maintain laboratory proficiency by completing and passing quarterly proficiency testing.
Print labels according to product specifications, issue them to production, and accurately track label usage.
Perform cleaning tasks according to the Master Cleaning Schedule.
Manage inventory of production and laboratory materials and keep storage areas and bins clean and stocked.
Review production and quality-control monitoring documentation for completeness and accuracy.
Assist with other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Competitive pay with annual longevity raises.
Sign-on bonuses up to $1,500.
Opportunity to earn quarterly bonuses.
Vacation starting at 80 hours annually and increasing with years of service.
40 hours of sick time awarded annually.
Nine paid holidays each year.
Medical insurance available the first of the month following 30 days of employment.
Dental and vision insurance available the first of the month following 90 days of employment.
Flexible Spending Account and Health Savings Account available the first of the month following 90 days of employment.
401(k) matching up to 4%.
Paid parental leave of 40 hours.
Tuition reimbursement.
Flexible benefits plan.
BBQs and picnics.
Overtime available as needed.