Quality Lab Technician

Kraft Heinz • Davenport, IA

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The Quality Lab Technician supports food safety and quality programs by performing microbiological and quality testing, collecting production and environmental samples, and accurately documenting laboratory results. The role works independently on the assigned third shift and follows laboratory procedures, sampling plans, and safety requirements. It is based in a manufacturing plant environment with heavy machinery and equipment. Sample collection may take place on the production floor in cold conditions, and extended laboratory hours may be required as needed.

The schedule is Monday through Thursday, starting at 5 p.m. The position requires prompt and regular attendance and may require weekend work or overtime as needed. The role includes laboratory testing and sampling, documentation, equipment checks, communicating test deviations, maintaining sample integrity and a safe laboratory, and supporting team coverage and improvement activities.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Science-related education or experience, including microbiology, biology, chemistry, food science, medical laboratory science, environmental science, or a related field.
• Ability to learn and accurately perform laboratory testing and sampling procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate documentation.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize multiple tasks.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to recognize and appropriately escalate unusual results, testing issues, or potential food safety concerns.
• Ability to work safely in a microbiology laboratory that handles pathogens.
• Ability to work the assigned shift with prompt and regular attendance; weekends or overtime may be needed.
• Ability to walk, sit, stand, climb, work near moving equipment, occasionally lift up to 25 pounds, operate a computer, type, communicate in person and by telephone, and complete paperwork responsibilities.

Nice To Haves

• Previous laboratory or microbiology experience preferred.
• Food manufacturing, environmental monitoring, or pathogen testing experience is a plus but not required.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine microbiological testing of product, environmental, water, and production samples.
• Support and execute sanitation verification testing, shelf-life studies, and other microbiological testing to verify critical limits for critical processes.
• Collect production and environmental samples according to established sampling plans and procedures.
• Perform aseptic techniques, pipetting, serial dilutions, plating, media preparation, and result interpretation.
• Document, review, and enter laboratory results into applicable systems.
• Perform required laboratory controls, equipment checks, and calibration activities.
• Identify and promptly communicate out-of-specification results, control failures, sampling issues, equipment concerns, and other testing deviations.
• Participate in proficiency testing and the internal laboratory audit process for internal factory laboratories.
• Manage inventory as needed.
• Maintain accurate sample identification, traceability, and sample integrity.
• Follow GLPs, GMPs, laboratory safety requirements, and applicable food safety procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
• Communicate with Quality, Production, and laboratory personnel, including shift-to-shift handoffs.
• Cross-train in laboratory functions and support team coverage as needed.
• Participate in laboratory improvement projects and other assigned activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Affordable access to healthcare coverage for employees and eligible dependents.
• Benefits and wellbeing programs, which may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment-status factors.
• Medical and prescription drug coverage.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Paid time off.
• Company holidays.
• Leave of absence.
• Flexible work arrangements.
• Recognition programs.
• Training.
• Employee assistance program.
• Wellbeing programs.
• Family support programs.
• 401(k).
• Life insurance.
• Accidental death and dismemberment coverage.
• Disability coverage.
• Eligibility for a performance-based bonus under the plan terms and governing documents.

What This Job Offers

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