QA Lab Technician - ES

Butterball, LLC, one of Americas most iconic brands, helps consumers celebrate Thanksgiving and every day in between. Located in the thriving Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina area, our goal is to provide a diverse array of career opportunities and paths which include our farms, processing facilities and support offices.We are the largest producer of turkey products in the U.S., and we make a lot more than Thanksgiving turkeys. Our companys measurable growth is in no small part due to our team members in North Carolina, Arkansas, Illinois, and Missouri, who each have a seat at the table to contribute to our success

Job Summary

Perform standardized qualitative and quantitative assays to determine physical, chemical, and microbiological properties of food products and other samples. Conduct standardized tests on food in order to ensure compliance with standards and regulations regarding factors such as color, texture, nutrients, and microbiological content. Perform laboratory preparation activities and analyses to provide useful, accurate technical information to necessary personnel.

Essential Functions, Duties & Responsibilities

• Receives, logs, and stores laboratory samples.
• Prepares standard solutions and reagents for use in microbiological/chemical testing.
• Maintain stock of lab materials.
• Perform routine maintenance of lab equipment.
• Regular verification/calibration of lab equipment.
• Monitor product quality to ensure compliance to standards and specifications.
• Taste or smell foods in order to ensure that flavors meet specifications.
• Perform microbiological analyses of food ingredients, raw and finished food samples, and environmental samples using established microbiological methods and procedures.
• Perform microbiological analysis of feed and environmental samples from Live Operations.
• Performs chemical & physical analyses of food ingredients and finished food samples using established chemistry methods and procedures.
• Carry out routine laboratory functions, such as sample disposal, equipment checks, cleaning, etc.
• Enter sample and test data into computer databases to ensure products are meeting published customer service standards.
• Record and compile test results and prepare graphs, charts, and reports.
• Conduct QA technician, or other personnel, training in relevant lab procedures.
• Collect samples on production floor as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Proficiency in use of word processing and spreadsheet software.
• Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, statistics, and their applications.
• Use scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
• Conduct tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
• Ability to work with cross functional teams.
• Demonstrate competency on all test methods, SOPs and instrument calibrations to a level sufficient to perform all assigned work and to be able to train others.
• Good communication skills and ability to work in a team-based environment.
• Ability to multitask and work in a fast paced environment is critical

Education & Experience

• Two years College or Associate Degree in food microbiology or similar field or combination of education and/or work experience.
• Bachelors degree in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, Meat Science, Animal Science or related field or equivalent experience desired.
• Previous experience in food manufacturing preferred.

Physical Demands

• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
• Specific vision includes close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus. Must be able to distinguish colors.
• Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.

Working Environment:

• Standard microbiology and chemistry laboratory.
• Occasional time working in a cold and wet industrial environment is required.
• May require long periods of time on feet.
• May require a lot of walking.
• May be exposed to foul odors due to incubating and autoclaving samples.
• Must be able to use computer.
• Some long hours and weekend work may be required.

We embrace equal opportunity employment. Butterball is committed to the fair and impartial treatment of all employees and applicants for employment without regard to gender, age, race, religion, color, national origin, physical or mental disability, military/veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, or any other status protected by law. This position is deemed Safety Sensitive for purposes of Butterballs Drug/Alcohol Screening & Testing Policy. Details will be provided to individuals who receive a conditional job offer, or upon request.