Job Title: Lab Technician

Job Description

The Laboratory Technician will be responsible for testing both raw and processed fluid milk and soft serve ice cream products and operating the most modern testing equipment the industry has to offer. Applicants must be able to communicate and work well with other team members. Responsibilities include performing swabs for sterility, checking for contaminants, and conducting a lot of plating. The role involves bouncing back and forth between the lab and the plant, performing allergen testing, and running back into the plant as needed.

Responsibilities

• Operate milk laboratory equipment, including but not limited to: FT1 component analyzer, Celsis Innovate CellScan analyzer, pH meter, autoclave, refractometer, analytical scales, incubators, and 3M petrifilm.

• Perform approved testing methods for rapid screening of antibiotics and allergens.

• Conduct analytical testing for components of dairy products.

• Monitor weight control of finished items.

• Perform ATP bioluminescence rapid assay and microbial screening tests for ultra-heat treated (UHT) and extended shelf life (ESL) products prior to release for shipment and shelf-life duration.

• Calibrate laboratory equipment.

• Prepare Bills of Lading for outgoing product loads.

• Prepare mix formulations for daily production needs.

• Identify both technical and instrumental problems and present solutions.

• Navigate software programs specific to the dairy industry.

• Observe any deviations from company specifications and alert management in a timely manner.

• Demonstrate solid planning and organizational skills, detail orientation, and the ability to manage multiple projects with limited supervision.

• Comply with GMP, Safety, and Work Policies.

• Other duties as assigned.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in a Laboratory Science related field (Biology, Chemistry, Food Sciences) from an accredited university or college, or relevant food industry experience.

• Knowledge of sterile techniques, ideally with micro exposure.

• Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other technology-based programs.

• Ability to stand, walk, stoop, reach, climb, kneel, lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects weighing up to 50lbs.

• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and manage time efficiently.

• Strong organizational and detail-oriented skills.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Flexibility to maintain varied hours, including weekends and holidays.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in a lab or production setting is preferred.

• Ability to multitask effectively.

• Team player willing to step in if another lab technician is unavailable.

• Three-month probationary period.

Work Environment

This is a full-time position (40 hours per week/8-hour shifts) with overtime available. Ninety percent of the work will be in the lab, with interactions with production workers and occasional work in cold conditions. The role involves approximately 50% sitting and 50% standing. Comprehensive training will be provided, including GMP, HACCP, and Allergen training. Flexibility to work all hours, including holidays, is required.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $24.50 - $24.50

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in GRANITE CITY,IL.

Application Deadline

This position will be accepting applications until Dec 31, 2024.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I are embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent

• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection

• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes

• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com (%20actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com) for other accommodation options.