Lab Lead - Quality and Food Safety

Job DescriptionGeneral PurposeCoordinate daily lab activities and work tasks of lab technicians and assume duties necessary to support the team in executing laboratory and quality assurance activities. Provide training and guidance to new employees. Demonstrate full proficiency in performing tasks related to the testing of products, setting of samples, and following through on various quality assurance programs. Perform laboratory tests according to prescribed standards on in-process and finished food products and ingredients in a food production laboratory. Work with a high degree of accuracy and concentration to produce valid test results in a timely manner. Ensure products are produced and distributed to the highest food safety and quality standards.Job Duties and ResponsibilitiesCoordinate daily lab activities; assign work tasks; monitor task progress; monitor technicians’ performance and the correctness and efficiency of their testing; conduct inspections of the work area; function as an escalation point for questions or issues; and provide input into performance development and management activitiesProvide laboratory training and function as a go-to resource; familiarize new technicians with all laboratory methods and good laboratory practices; model and promote a food safety and quality culture within the teamEnsure the efficiency and correct conditions for all tests and analysis in the labPerform all laboratory testing and quality control activities as needed to support the team in executing laboratory and quality assurance activitiesPerform quality checks on all laboratory equipment; conducts equipment calibrations at established frequency; conduct or coordinate maintenance, trouble shooting, and repairs of laboratory equipmentNotify supervisor of any out-of-range value or variation from accepted norms in operations or product quality immediately; monitor quality problems or trends. Maintain documentation of all non-compliance to work standards. Review findings and establish plan of action to correct deviationsAssist production in root-cause analysis for process results that are out of specEnsure lab records are accurate, clear, timely, and completed with required information. Ensure all required information is documented in accordance with standard operation proceduresActively contribute to continued improvement of laboratory systems; participate in and/or lead task meetings and suggest changes in work tasks and use of equipment to increase efficienciesMake sure master sanitation is complete and signed off in a timely mannerAssist with laboratory special projects and new testing implementationAssist department supervisor in monitoring GMP complianceAssist the supervisor in creating standard operating procedures (SOP’s, SSOP’s,) and other procedures for the laboratory; modify, maintain and review procedures for accuracy and completenessAssist during inspections and organize findings for presentation to the management teamMaintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issuesFollow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirementsThe requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as requiredJob RequirementsEducation and ExperienceHigh school diploma or equivalentPost-secondary education related to food science, biological science, or related sciences preferred4 to 6 years of food manufacturing, laboratory, food testing, quality assurance, and/or related work experienceDemonstrated leadership attributes or team lead experienceCertification and/or License – may be required during course of employment such as Better Processing Certificate, state certification for antibiotic testing, etc.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesMastery of applicable laboratory equipment and laboratory processesStrong understanding of how laboratory analysis relates to different steps in the manufacturing processAble to fully understand and articulate the impact a laboratory has on the company as a wholeAble to use Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systemsAble to follow laboratory procedures and state and federal regulations regarding the testing of applicable productsAble to promote a team environmentAble to adapt and manage to change effectivelyAble to multi-task and problem solveAble to prioritize tasks and work independentlyAble to work with accuracy and attention to detailAble to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writingAble to take initiative in performing job and seek increased responsibilitiesAble to work in collaboration, foster good teamwork, and promptly share relevant information with othersAble to interact positively and work effectively with others (interpersonal skills)Must be able to read, write and speak EnglishAn Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/VeteransJob DetailsJob Type: Full TimeCategory: Quality and Food Safety