Lab Technician

Job Description
This position performs daily laboratory tests of production samples to ensure the quality of the final product. Primary function is to ensure the quality of the final product in compliance with state and federal environmental regulations and Company standards. This position is entry level.
Note:
This position operates within the Quality Control team with opportunity to advance levels based on evaluation of the candidate by the hiring team.
Primary Responsibilities/Essential Functions
Laboratory Operations:
Leads daily testing to ensure quality of the final product within the Quality Control laboratory of a fully integrated soybean processing facility.
Able to operate all lab equipment to perform all routine analyses on raw materials, products, and Work in Progress (WIP).
Understands Official Methods in Reference Standards (ASTM, EN, AOCS, USP) used in testing.
Follows established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for testing methods.
Enters laboratory test data into Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and generates reports as appropriate.
Generates Certificates of Analysis (COAs) on finished product.
Maintains cleanliness of lab area and maintains established 5S areas. .
Process Control &
Improvement:
Analyzes production and certification samples and reports results to the Operations personnel in a timely manner.
Assists in maintaining environmental monitoring program.
Participates in cross-check testing with internal and external laboratories.
Quality and Food/Feed Safety Programs:
Understands and complies with GMPs, Food Safety management systems, including FSSC 22000.
Understands BQ9000 Producer Requirements and NOPA Trading Rules.
Company Conformance Statements
In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to conform to the following:
Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
Interact professionally with co-workers, Company business associates and the general public.
Work together in a cooperative spirit to serve the best interests of the Company.
Operate in a fully responsible manner and comply with the law and Company policy.
Equipment Used
Standard laboratory equipment and machinery (e.G., FTIR, GC, ICP-OES, ICP-MS Karl Fisher, NIR, analytical balance, colorimeter).
Typical office equipment:
PC, telephone, fax machine.
Personal protective equipment as required.
Working Conditions
Laboratory work is in a typical climate-controlled laboratory environment.
Continuous 24/7 plant operation;
this position works 12 hours/day, including weekends and holidays as scheduled. May include shift work and call-in availability on days off or other atypical hours/schedules.
Daily visits to industrial operations areas for sample collection are necessary with exposure to variety of temperatures and prevailing weather conditions.
Regular exposure to chemicals, gases, vapors, dust, odors and flammable liquids.
Occasional exposure to areas with wet floors and high volume of noise.
Extensions of regular working hours are occasionally necessary to complete time-sensitive projects or to respond to emergencies.
Safety, Health &
Environmental Responsibilities
Is an active member of the facility SHE (Safety, Health, and Environment) Program.
Complies with the laboratory safety program.
Maintains good working knowledge of SHE policies, rules and procedures applicable to area of responsibility and adheres to all applicable requirements.
Completes required training for area assigned, and jobs and tasks prior to assigning work.
Shares in responsibility of maintaining the lab in and orderly and safe manner.
Reports unsafe working conditions to Management as soon as practicable.
Employee Supervision
No direct supervisory responsibilities.
Decision Making/Accountability
Works in a safe and efficient manner in the chemical laboratory testing product. Accurately performs tests and records results. Works independently on routine duties but consults with supervisor on any problems or unusual test results.