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 using modern testing equipment. Applicants must communicate and work well with team members. Responsibilities include performing sterility swabs, contaminant checks, allergen testing, and plating, requiring frequent movement between the lab and the plant.

Responsibilities

• Operate milk laboratory equipment including 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 dairy product components.

• Monitor weight control of finished items.

• Perform ATP bioluminescence rapid assay and microbial screening tests for UHT and ESL products before shipment and for shelf-life duration.

• Calibrate laboratory equipment.

• Prepare Bills of Lading for outgoing product loads.

• Prepare mix formulations for daily production needs.

• Identify and solve technical and instrumental problems.

• Navigate software programs specific to the dairy industry.

• Observe and report deviations from company specifications to management.

• Plan and organize tasks effectively, managing multiple projects with limited supervision.

• Comply with GMP, Safety, and Work Policies.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Skills

• Knowledge of sterile technique, ideally with micro exposure.

• Minimum: Bachelor's degree in a Laboratory Science related field (Biology, Chemistry, Food Sciences) from an accredited institution. Relevant food industry experience may substitute for a degree.

• Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other relevant technology.

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

• Self-starter with good time management skills and flexibility to take on additional tasks.

• Organized and detail-oriented with excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to maintain flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.

• Three-month probationary period.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in a lab or production setting is preferred.

• Capability to multi-task effectively.

Work Environment

This is a full-time position (40 hours per week/8-hour shifts) with the possibility of overtime. Comprehensive training will be provided, including GMP, HACCP, and Allergen training. The role requires flexibility to work all hours, including holidays if necessary, and the ability to step in if another lab technician is unavailable. 90% of work is in the lab, with occasional interaction with production workers. Some tasks may require working in cold conditions for short periods. The role involves 50% sitting and 50% standing.

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 Jan 1, 2025.

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.