Lab Tech

Description

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Senior Technical Manager with dotted line to the QFS Specialist, the QFS Lab Specialist/Inspector is responsible for executing quality control activities to ensure compliance with ofi, customer, and regulatory food safety and quality standards. This role plays a key support function within the technical quality team and works collaboratively with procurement to facilitate supplier product matching. Additionally, the QFS Lab Specialist provides assistance to laboratory operations, contributing to the verification of product specifications and the maintenance of safety and quality requirements. This position serves as a critical liaison among sourcing, technical services, R&D, and quality assurance functions, helping to ensure seamless integration and communication across departments.

Position Responsibilities

• Receive, record in Sample Register and track incoming spice and seasoning samples from suppliers for internal review and quality evaluation.
• Assist in reviewing technical specification sheets, Certificates of Analysis (COAs), country-of-origin documentation, and third-party certifications (e.g., Organic, Kosher, Halal, GFSI) to ensure compliance with internal and regulatory standards.
• Work with QA, R&D, and procurement teams to prepare and assist in evaluating sensory and physical characteristics of spice samples—including aroma, color, granulation, and particle size—for approval.
• Organize, label, and update physical and digital records of approved supplier matches, testing results, and evaluation notes to support traceability and product consistency.
• Document and report evaluation outcomes and updates to cross-functional stakeholders including Procurement, QA, R&D, and Technical Services.
• Receive, label, and prepare spice and seasoning samples for routine laboratory analysis, ensuring alignment with GMP and SOP protocols.
• Conduct or assist with standard spice quality testing including:
• Moisture content
• Water activity (Aw)
• Solubility (when applicable)
• Particle size/sieve analysis
• Color comparison using spectrophotometry
• Bulk density and flowability
• Organoleptic testing (Aroma, Flavor, Appearance) during customer bid comparison studies and shelf-life interval evaluations
• Physical evaluations of incoming ingredients, including detailed, highly focused inspections that will require attention to detail
• Accurately document results in spreadsheets, logs, and digital databases to ensure compliance and audit readiness.
• Clean, verify calibration, and perform basic maintenance on lab equipment such as water activity meters, balances, colorimeters, and sieves to ensure reliable operation.
• Organize and assemble product for shelf-life evaluations, complete periodic evaluations, and update reports. Communicate results to the Senior Technical Manager and Technical Writer as needed.
• Monitor and restock lab supplies including reagents, PPE, cleaning agents, and sample containers; notify lab personnel when inventory levels are low. Complete daily and weekly laboratory housekeeping tasks as assigned.
• Follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), HACCP protocols, allergen controls, and safety procedures in handling spice materials and performing lab tasks.
• Collaborate with Procurement, QA, Technical Services, Commercialization and Production to align on quality issues, product evaluations, and testing timelines.
• Maintain respectful, timely, and clear communication with internal teams and external partners.
• Work independently on daily responsibilities while contributing to team-based projects, improvement initiatives, and departmental goals.
• Participate in the Internal Audit team to complete monthly inspections of assigned areas and prepare reports of findings for the QFS Internal Audit Specialist.
• Support special projects, audits, or other lab-related tasks as directed by the QA Supervisor or Technical Services Manager.
  

Qualifications

• Experience with basic computer skills, including but not limited to Excel and Word
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
• Detail oriented and able to focus on tasks that require long periods of sitting
• Ability to manage time effectively
• Collaborative nature that is willing to work with multiple departments
• Knowledge of Food Safety practices. HACCP and/or FSPCA training is preferred but not required
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Bilingual in Spanish is preferred but not required
• High school diploma or GED required. Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field preferred; equivalent technical training with relevant industry experience will be considered.
• 1-2 years of experience in a food manufacturing, QA/QC, or laboratory support role
  
  

The pay for this role in the state of CA is $23.00 - $27.00/hr and is based on the position responsibilities and geographic location.

Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

ofi provides equality of opportunity for all persons with respect to hiring without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation. All employment will be decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us for support at: [email protected]

At ofi, we celebrate our diversity. Olam Americas Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.