FSQR Lab Technician

ILLES Foods Job Description Job Title: FSQR Lab Technicians Reports To: FSQRSupervisor FLSA: Permanent, Full Time, Non-Exempt Hours: 7 AM - 4 PM (Overtime as needed) About Us Specializing in custom‑crafted culinary solutions—from beverage bases and sauces to marinades and seasonings—ILLES Foods has partnered with food service chains, manufacturers, and retailers across the U.S. since 1927. Our Food Innovation expertise, creativity, and speed to market, combined with a laser focus on customer experience, make us a key partner in product development. As a family‑owned, woman‑run business, our growth is fueled by deeply held values: operating with integrity, maintaining intentional curiosity, and strong relationship building through the power of partnership. At ILLES Foods, we strive to be the ingredient that elevates food and enriches the lives of our partners, internal and external. Job Summary The successful candidate inspects, tests, and approves Finished Goods production and Raw Materials receipts under the guidance of the FSQA Supervisor and/or Manager/Director. Conducts warehouse inspections and line checks for compliance to GMP’s, Food Safety, and FSQA/Sanitation policies and procedures. Collects data, maintains files, and distributes analytical & related information as required. Partners conduct themselves in a manner that is aligned with ILLES Foods Core Values: Operate with Integrity, Stay Intentionally Curious, and Believe in the Power of the Partnership. Key Duties and Responsibilities Conducts all analytical and organoleptic tests applicable to each product Performs data entry of all testing or inspection results and creates COAs as required Conducts calibration on all equipment as required Carries out all environmental sampling using sterile sample collection techniques Samples equipment for sanitation effectiveness testing Collects all finished product samples for internal testing Prepares samples for shipment to third‑party labs or customers Performs pre‑operational inspections for allergen removal from equipment prior to use Performs line checks during production Puts materials on hold or releases from hold upon request from a member of FSQR Management Acts as backup for Vendor Compliance Specialist to complete warehouse inspections and bug count Able to manage lab testing and line checks at the same time during breaks and lunches if coverage is not available Ensures that food safety, legality, integrity, and quality standards are maintained at all times Performs other tasks as assigned by Management Regular attendance for scheduled shifts is a requirement of this position Required Key Skills and Qualifications Time management & reliability: Manages scheduled testing, line checks, and sample collection efficiently; maintains consistent attendance Safety & compliance: Follows GMPs, food safety, FSQA, and sanitation protocols; ensures legal and quality compliance in lab and production areas Communication (verbal/written): Documents results clearly and communicates findings to supervisors and teams Customer service (active listening): Responds effectively to team and production inquiries Inventory management: Maintains lab supplies and ensures readiness for testing Flexibility/adaptability: Adjusts to changing schedules and urgent testing needs Digital literacy: Uses Microsoft Office and electronic QA/FSQA systems Problem‑solving (critical thinking): Identifies issues and recommends corrective actions Team coordination: Collaborates with FSQA and production teams for smooth testing operations Conflict resolution: Resolves test or sampling discrepancies professionally Experience & Education Bachelor's or associate degree with 2 years’ experience working in an industrial laboratory (preferably food). Working Conditions & Physical Demands Taste, smell, and see well enough to discriminate quality and quantity aspects of individual flavor and seasoning components of food products and ingredients. Physically able to lift 50 lbs. See well enough to read pertinent documents (hard copy as well as computer screen data and reports). Ability to hear directions in a noisy environment. Be able to effectively communicate with all contacts both orally and in writing. Ability to legally and safely drive a vehicle in performance of the position requirements. What We Offer We are a core‑value driven, inclusive team that values innovation, growth, and impact. We offer career development, mentorship, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits—including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with immediate match, HSA, EAP, life, disability, and more! Disclaimer The job description provides a general overview of the work, not a detailed list of all tasks and skills. Reasonable accommodation is available for individuals with disabilities as required by law. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a health or safety risk. Employees must follow job‑related instructions and perform additional duties as per federal and state laws. The listed requirements are the minimum needed to perform the job effectively. Employment is "at‑will," meaning it can be terminated at any time. ILLES Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer. (M/F/D/V) #J-18808-Ljbffr Illes-Foods-1