Lab Technician

**Roles & responsibilities can include the following (but not limited to)**:

- Handle sensitive equipment (FTIR, Food Scan, automatic titrators, viscometer, mojonnier) and be able to proficiently use these
- Prepare samples and media used for daily analysis
- Analyze dairy samples (including shelf-life samples) by carrying out routine tests and procedures
- Perform analytical/microbiological tests for all incoming raw materials, in-process, and finished products
- Conduct environmental swabbing, environmental water sampling and testing, air testing and line checks occasionally
- Test samples as per requirements of implemented methods
- Participate in proficiency testing
- Collect, sort, and deliver samples to correct locations and enter any necessary information into spreadsheets
- Adhere to quality and safety programs, lead by example to ensure that safety culture is a natural part of daily operations
- Follow and demonstrate compliance with all pre-requisite requirements relating to food quality, health and safety programs including pest control, HACCP, SOPs and good laboratory practices
- Maintain accuracy and calibration of laboratory equipment and perform routine inspections to determine if/when maintenance is required; keep equipment clean and in good working order
- Use appropriate computer programs to record data/information regarding samples
- Prepare customer certificate of analysis
- Monitor and report on laboratory inventories
- Dispose of chemical waste safely; be knowledgeable in the safe handling of chemicals
- Be computer literate and perform bill settling and final release of product

**Skills**:

- Ability to work well within a team or as an individual
- Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
- Strong organizational skills
- Strong time management skills and ability to meet deadlines
- Strong attention to detail and adherence to SOPs
- Ability to keep and record daily logs
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

**Qualifications**:

- Minimum 2 years experience in the food industry or equivalent
- Bachelor of Science or Diploma in Microbiology Food Science or equivalent
- Knowledge of microbiological procedures and analytical testing procedures
- Knowledge of GMP’s, allergens, food safety and security, HACCP
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Proficient computer abilities including Word and Excel
- Ability to work all shifts and the occasional weekend

**Salary**: $30.00 per hour

**Benefits**:

- Company pension
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision care

Schedule:

- 8 hour shift

Supplemental pay types:

- Overtime pay

Ability to commute/relocate:

- Stratford, ON: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

**Education**:

- AEC / DEP or Skilled Trade Certificate (required)

**Experience**:

- Food industry: 2 years (preferred)

Shift availability:

- Day Shift (required)
- Night Shift (required)

Work Location: One location