Quality Lab Technician

Job Description
Job Purpose
This role supports the implementation and execution of key food safety microbiological and analytical testing by performing routine quality control activities, and executing testing using approved microbiological and analytical methods to support food safety and quality. The position works on site in the laboratory and on the production floor to perform sampling for routine environmental and product testing.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Support testing completion through media preparation, quality control activities, sample collection, and execution of microbial testing on daily basis.
• Support and execute sanitation verification testing, shelf-life studies and other microbiological testing to verify critical limits for critical processes.
• Partner with internal business partners to update/maintain and improve laboratory standards and procedures.
• Maintain excellent records of laboratory equipment and testing performed.
• Perform testing, evaluate and approve microbiological test results for the Kraft Heinz network.
• Participate in proficiency testing program and internal laboratory audit process for internal factory laboratories.
• Support sanitation verification, validation of pre-requisite programs and HACCP preventive controls (cooking, formulation, etc.) through routine product and environmental sampling and testing.
• Remain current in scientific and regulatory principles of food safety to ensure most relevant information and emerging issues are identified and incorporated into Kraft Heinz food safety programs.
• Perform administrative tasks such as managing inventory, ordering of lab supplies, and data entry.
• Perform cross-functional communication of results with internally generated data.
• Other duties as assigned.

Expected Experience & Required Skills

• Past experience performing relevant food safety or analytical science work in a laboratory required (1-3 years preferred).
• Knowledge and experience of GLPs (Good Laboratory Practices) required, including routine handling of BSL2 organisms.
• Knowledge and experience of GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices) preferred.
• Experience with LIMS (Laboratory Management Systems) and data management preferred.
• Experience performing microbiology laboratory techniques and analytical chemistry procedures, including rapid test methods.
• Awareness of quality management systems/processes (ISO, Six Sigma etc.), especially ISO 17025 requirements.
• Work experience in team-oriented functions as well as individual contribution.
• Must be able to work assigned shift with prompt and regular attendance, weekends or overtime as needed.
• Strong technical, communication and organizational skills required.
• Detailed-oriented.
• Effective communication skills (oral, written and verbal).
• Planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to walk, sit, stand, climb, work near moving equipment, occasionally lift up to 25lbs, operate a computer, keyboard/typing, communicate in-person and via telephone, complete paperwork responsibilities.

Work Environment & Schedule
This position is considered a Manufacturing plant environment with heavy machinery and equipment. Additionally, this role requires extended hours as needed in the lab.
Physical Requirements
Physical demands include but not limited to

• Frequent activity or conditions sustained 1/3 to 2/3 of working hours; upright stance, keyboard or text input; sedentary - occasionally exerting 0-10 lbs. of force, limited movement from workstation for brief period of time.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain all duties or responsibilities that are required of the role. Duties or responsibilities may change or be added with or without notice.
Our Total Rewards philosophy is to provide a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families and complement Kraft Heinz' strategy and values.
New Hire Base Salary Range:
$61,000.00 - $76,200.00
Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.
The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors
Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.
Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.
You'll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:

• Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
• Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
• Emotional - Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
• Financial - 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location(s)
Davenport Plant (New)
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for protected individuals, applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contact [email protected] for assistance.