Lab Technician

About The Job A Lab Technician will support quality and food safety in a fast‑paced plant environment, carrying out analytical testing, equipment maintenance, and continuous improvement initiatives in Mt. Crawford, VA. Responsibilities Ensure adherence to plant standards (GMP, IWS, ISO, etc.) and own the implementation of integrated work systems. Work safely, report and help mitigate safety concerns. Support plant/corporate protocols and facility systems (Sample6, IQS/Sigma, Ignition). Communicate effectively with other departments, leadership, and employees. Prioritize, multitask and complete job functions accurately. Facilitate, attend, and participate in team meetings and improvement programs. Perform analytical, chemical, microbiological, and allergenic testing. Oversee facility systems and support development of checks and balance programs. Maintain accurate paperwork and react to data for out‑of‑spec mitigations. Manage product inventory using SAP and SharePoint. Maintain, calibrate, troubleshoot, and repair laboratory instruments without assistance. Participate in laboratory Specialist Program and required training. Use root‑cause analysis to support sustainable solutions. Support continuous improvement, SOPs, and 5S methodology. Participate in Pillar activities (Quality, Safety, Focused Improvement). Assist, train, coach employees, and support plant production priorities. Comply with all regulations, policies, and procedures. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Strong teamwork skills and ability to work without direct supervision. Ability to manage high‑pressure situations calmly. Ability to learn all functions of the job and complete required training within a reasonable time. Ability to prioritize and multitask. Proven decision‑making ability. Ability to read, understand, and follow written instructions. Ability to keep accurate records. Proficiency in basic laboratory equipment (pipets, pH meters, balances). Ability to perform troubleshooting tasks. Proficiency in MS Office. Ability to work various hours and shifts, including overtime. Flexibility. Associate or Bachelor Degree in Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Food Science, or comparable program. Maintain required certifications and training. Benefits Danone North America offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Coverage, Retirement, Wellness Program, Life Insurance, and Paid Parental Bonding Leave. Working Conditions Physical Demands: Frequent standing, walking, sitting, using hands, reaching, climbing stairs, stooping, kneeling, and lifting up to 60 pounds. Vision and hearing requirements include close and distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and normal hearing volume levels. Work Environment: Facility‑wide work with exposure to cold/hot areas, loud noise, moving machinery, chemical exposure, and heavy lifting. Personal protective equipment includes safety glasses, hearing protection, slip‑resistant steel‑toed shoes, and other required devices. Danone North America is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. It is our policy to give equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to legally protected characteristics, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state/provincial and/or local law. For our EEO policy statement and your EEO rights under law, please consult our corporate website. California Data Privacy Law applies to this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr