Laboratory Technician

Description:

Laboratory Technician

Department:

IT

Reports To:

Analytical Laboratory Manager

Schedule:

Onsite \| Monday–Friday \| 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Status:

Non-Exempt

Location:

Onsite laboratory environment

Position Summary

The Laboratory Technician supports microbiological and wet chemistry testing for a dual dietary supplement and food manufacturing facility operating under FDA regulations (21 CFR Part 111 and Part 117). This role is responsible for performing rapid microbiological testing using Neogen Soleris instrumentation, supporting routine laboratory operations, and maintaining strict compliance with GMP and data integrity requirements. Weekend support may be required as needed.

Key Responsibilities

Rapid Microbiology \& Analytical Testing

• Perform rapid microbiological testing using the Neogen Soleris system, including: Total Plate Count (TPC), Yeast \& Mold, Coliforms and E. coli, Enterobacteriaceae
• Conduct pathogen screening and confirmation testing for: Salmonella spp, Listeria spp (including L. monocytogenes, as applicable), Staphylococcus aureus
• Prepare samples according to established laboratory procedures
• Perform daily calibration, verification, and routine maintenance of laboratory instruments
• Accurately document all testing activities following GMP and ALCOA\+ data integrity principles
• Maintain equipment logs, calibration records, and maintenance documentation
• Support verification of rapid microbiological methods

Wet Chemistry Support

• Perform basic wet chemistry testing, including: pH, Moisture (loss on drying), Density/specific gravity, Basic titrations (acid value, peroxide value), Water activity testing
• Prepare reagents, standards, and chemical media
• Ensure laboratory equipment is properly maintained and calibrated
• Follow all safety and chemical handling procedures per SDS requirements

Laboratory Operations \& Compliance

• Maintain laboratory cleanliness and organization in accordance with GMP standards
• Assist with sample receipt, logging, and chain of custody processes
• Support inventory management of laboratory supplies and consumables
• Participate in investigations related to out-of-specification (OOS) results
• Assist with internal and external audits as assigned
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory and quality standards, including: 21 CFR Part 111 (Dietary Supplements GMP), 21 CFR Part 117 (Food Safety), NSF/ANSI 173, SQF Food Safety Code

Documentation \& Data Integrity

• Maintain accurate and timely laboratory documentation
• Ensure all data is attributable, legible, contemporaneous, original, accurate, complete, and compliant
• Complete laboratory notebooks, worksheets, and electronic entries
• Assist with preparation of laboratory reports and summaries

Training \& Development

• Complete required training on SOPs, test methods, and safety procedures
• Participate in continuing education related to microbiological testing
• Provide training support to new laboratory personnel as experience develops
• Stay current with laboratory best practices and industry standards

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree in Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science, or a related scientific field
• 0–2 years of laboratory experience in food, dietary supplement, pharmaceutical, or other regulated industries
• Basic understanding of microbiology, aseptic technique, and laboratory safety
• Familiarity with standard laboratory equipment and instrumentation
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and laboratory information systems
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data integrity
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Effective written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science, or a related field
• Experience with microbiological testing methods
• Knowledge of FDA regulations (21 CFR Part 111 and 117)
• Experience working in a food or dietary supplement testing laboratory

Physical \& Work Environment Requirements

• Frequent use of hands for pipetting and sample handling
• Occasional lifting up to 20 pounds
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
• Work performed in a laboratory setting with exposure to chemical reagents and biological samples
• Use of laboratory and standard office equipment

Travel

Minimal travel required for training purposes only

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable law.