Laboratory Technician

Summary/Objective

Under general supervision, responsible for preparing and conducting various routine laboratory tests on food, dairy, water and/or wastewater products accurately and timely.  Prepares customer reports with test results and files according to specified procedure.  Effective performance required to maintain laboratory licensure and company image. Some principal duties and responsibilities may or may not apply. 

Essential Functions

1. Receives samples (food, dairy, water and/or wastewater) for analysis. Labels sample containers with identifying data (including location of sample, time, temperature, etc.) according to specified procedure.  Prepares analysis sheet and log for sample.

1. Prepares sample for testing. May include:  weighing sample, preparing chemical solutions, adding chemicals to sample, making reagents, centrifuging, grinding, drying, mixing and packing, diluting, distilling, titrating, filtering, stirring, filling and other similar processes.

1. Sets up, adjusts and operates laboratory equipment and instruments in order to properly conduct various laboratory tests on samples. May include:  testing for materials used as ingredients in food, feed, wastewater, etc. and testing samples of manufactured products to verify conformity to specifications. May utilize a computer program to conduct tests.

1. Determines whether tests are in control according to standard procedure. Analyzes out-of-control situations and makes recommendations for changes to ensure tests are run properly and are producing reliable results. Verifies quality control and control limits for each test conducted.

1. Calculates and records test results in Lab notebook(s) and onto the standardized forms and/or computer system. Analyzes and interprets test results to determine equipment efficiency and accuracy.  Maintains time and testing records.  Forwards test results to office for processing and mailing.

1. Cleans up laboratory area including preparing new bottles and test kits; washing and drying glassware and laboratory instruments; sterilizing glassware and instruments. Cleans sample containers.

1. Complies with Food quality-assurance processes for compliance to standards and regulations with the internal quality system.

1. Supports and complies with the methods and standards based on ISO 17025 quality management system

Additional Duties and Responsibilities:

1. May pick up mail for Post Office, UPS or delivered packages, sort and number samples received and deliver to other Laboratory Technicians.

1. May prepare samples to be sent to other laboratories for testing not conducted by company.

1. May run certification samples for appropriate regulatory agencies.

1. Other duties as may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position.

Competencies

1. Ethical Conduct.
2. Communication Proficiency.
3. Learning Orientation.

Supervisory Responsibility:

This position has no supervisory responsibilities

Work Relationships and Scope:  

Reports directly to the appropriate Laboratory Supervisor.  Works closely with other Laboratory Technicians utilizing individual expertise to assure accurate and timely test results. Has minimal contact with customers regarding test results.  Contacts to be performed with clarity, courtesy and tact.

Interpersonal Skills:  

Strong interpersonal skills required.  Must have ability to work collaboratively and effectively with internal and external staff.  Ability to work in a team environment as well as ability to work independently.  Must be committed to work in an environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.   

Measures of Performance:  

Quality, accuracy, thoroughness, reliability and timeliness of work performed.  Customer satisfaction and reliance with test results received.  Effectiveness of communications and development of good working relationships with co-workers and supervisor.  Positive approach toward work, co-workers and supervisor.  Commitment and loyalty to company. 

 Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:  

HS Diploma or equivalent required.  No experience required, but previous laboratory experience preferred.  Individual must possess:  high degree of accuracy, basic math skills, time management, organizational skills, ability to follow procedures accurately, be efficient, organized and detail oriented, have some basic knowledge and understanding of laboratory equipment, be able to work independently, have the ability to build positive work relationships with co-workers and supervisor; ability to interact professionally with a wide variety of people, be a team worker and work with a high degree of cleanliness.  Individual must be able to:  use a computer, meet established deadlines for customers, read and write laboratory reports, operate a calculator and various types of laboratory equipment and stand for extended periods of time.

Working Conditions:  

Majority of work requires long periods of standing, may include lifting heavy materials (samples and mail).  May lift up to 35 lbs.  Work area may have poor ventilation causing odors from samples (food, wastewater, sludge) and chemical fumes.  Daily deadline pressure is part of job.