QA Lab Assistant

Immediate Quality Assurance Associate Opportunity

Lab Assistant - Swings (1 pm to 9:30pm)

Salary Compensation: $18.50 ($17 per hour + $1.50 shift differential)

$500 Sign-on Bonus*

Job Summary:

The Lab Assistant is responsible for testing product to specification and reporting results in a timely manner. This position requires accuracy, precision, organization, and effective communication to meet key performance activities. This position works closely with Quality Assurance and Quality Control teams to provide accurate and timely product results. The Lab Assistant will provide a commitment to food safety, quality, and continuous improvement of the quality program.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Maintain and keep the labs clean and organized by following good lab practices.
• Maintain and keep lab equipment clean and sanitized.
• Prepare and test samples according to SOPs including but not limited to color, aroma, viscosity, moisture, and salt.
• Collect and perform testing according to the environmental monitoring program and water testing program.
• Collect and perform testing for micro lab testing of products including APC, yeast, and mold.
• Collect and prepare samples for third-party testing, keeping an accurate and timely schedule for shipments.
• Analyze results of tests and reporting and record findings.
• Keep updated records, ensuring information is accessible and accurate.
• Record and maintain lab equipment calibration results.
• Maintain lab proficiency by completing and passing quarterly lab proficiency testing.
• Print labels according to product specifications and issue them to production. Keep an accurate count of label usage.
• Perform cleaning tasks following the Master Cleaning Schedule.
• Manage inventory of production and lab materials (e.g., gloves, masks, knives, hair nets, beard nets, label stock, microplates, media, etc.) and keep storage areas and bins cleaned and stocked.
• Review production/quality control monitoring documentation for completeness and accuracy.
• Assist with other duties as assigned.

Personal Characteristics:

• Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work in cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated ability in basic mathematics.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Detailed analytical abilities.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to work in a facility that handles allergens including, but not limited to, wheat, soy, egg, and milk.
• Must be able to perform physical requirements of the position including walking, standing, stooping, and climbing.
• Must be able to lift up 35 pounds at times.
• Must be able to sit at a desk and work on a computer for prolonged periods of time.
• Must be able to work in open environments with exposure to pungent odors and varying climates.

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• At least 2 years of experience in a lab or food quality testing preferred.

Benefits:

• Medical Insurance, *first day of the month immediately following hire date.
• Voluntary Dental and Vision Insurance.
• 80 Vacation Hours Annually.
• 40 Sick Time Hours Annually.
• Flexible Benefits Plan.
• Matching 401(k) Plan.
• BBQs and Picnics.

Vision and Mission:

HBs Vision: To positively impact the lives of our families, partners, and communities for future generations by leading innovation in the food chain.

HBs Mission: To develop and deliver the best food solutions for people and planet.

Values:

The values by which HB Specialty Foods operates its business are based upon the Companys own, unique BLENDS concept:

• COLLABORATION
• QUALITY
• INTEGRITY
• APPRECIATION
• KINDNESS
• SAFETY