SUMMARY:  The Food Safety & Quality Assurance Lab Technician is responsible for performing analytical testing and performing procedures and other tasks satisfactorily through means of internal and/or external training.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to, the following:

· Operate and maintain equipment.

· Prepare and sterilize media for use in various analytical testing.

· Maintain training on various lab policies, procedure, and activities.

· Demonstrate proficient knowledge of all required methods and procedures as needed. This includes but is not limited to:

§ PCR testing and/or enumeration of various microbes such as Campylobacter spp., Salmonella spp., E.coli/coliforms, Aerobic Plate Count, and Enterobacteriaceae etc.

§ Moisture testing

§ Shelf-life studies

§ Microbial culture maintenance

· Maintain lab records to ensure recordkeeping and documentation requirements are met; perform data entry and inventory to ensure stock and material control; report, review, and authorize lab results.

· Perform all procedures and other tasks in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures Manual, Laboratory Quality Manual, ISO 17025 standard, and Impartiality Program, including safety procedures and have proper knowledge of ISO 17025 standard and relevant regulatory requirements.

· Keep work environment clean and perform laboratory sanitation duties.

· Other duties as assigned by manager.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position will not have supervisory responsibility.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

· Required

o High school diploma

o Possess good computer skills with a basic understanding of Excel and Word, strong verbal and written communication skills, good organizational skills, basic math skills, and the ability to work with a team.

· Preferred

o Laboratory experience in microbiology or related field.