Quality Assurance Lab Technician

Role Description

The Quality Assurance Lab Technician supports plant operations by performing microbiological, physical and chemical analysis on raw materials and food products from various stages of the manufacturing process as directed by the Quality Assurance Manager and provides assistance to the operations team. Provides support and assistance to the Quality Assurance Manager by performing auditing and inspection functions for glass and hard plastic, post-cleanup, sanitation, pest control, and security. Accuracy, reliability, and expediency are essential to the successful completion of the duties of a Quality Assurance Technician.

Reports To: Quality Operations Manager 

Location: Portland, OR 

Role Responsibilities

• Performs chemical and physical analysis (including flavor checks) on product, ingredient and control samples according to laboratory procedures. Need to understand the concepts of each analysis, anticipate the result and follow through on any deviation.
• Records all product analyses according to laboratory protocols including data entry on a computer system. Falsifying a record will result in disciplinary action.
• Communicates effectively all critical information regarding analysis, procedures, and test results. Handwriting must be clearly legible.
• Prepares product sampling materials.
• Cleans and maintains all equipment/materials used while keeping the laboratory clean and organized.
• Follows all laboratory and plant GMP and safety procedures according to company guidelines.
• General plant QA responsibilities may include (but are not limited to): collection and distribution of product and ingredient samples, environmental swabbing, ATP swabbing, air sampling, water sampling, allergen testing, and safety checks.
• Covers all lab responsibilities during the absence of the Quality Assurance Manager.
• Assist production group with duties as requested which may include general cleaning.

Skills & Qualifications

• Associates degree in related field, bachelor’s degree preferred
• 2 years’ experience of working in a lab environment; food manufacturing preferred
• Infant Formula or Food manufacturing experience preferred.
• Competency in performing functions that ensure product quality, safety, and compliance to applicable SOPs and GMP regulations such as data entry, results from assessments, internal audits, CAPA resolutions, and records review
• Must be self-disciplined, a team player, and be able to handle emergency situations common to the operation
• Must be able to maintain and display personal cleanliness and follow GMPs’ as described in company guidelines
• Must be able to write clearly and in an organized fashion
• Must be able to use a computer, MS office, and other company provided software