JOB SUMMARY: Cross train in all positions in the Laboratory in order to provide coverage, as needed. Conduct all tests per methods and SOPs. Independently take initiative to ensure the efficiency of the lab by aiding other lab employees and maintaining the general upkeep of the lab. ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES: An essential job duty of this position is regularly reporting to work on time and being able to perform the essential duties of the position. % Of Total Time • Cross-train in all positions in the Laboratory to provide coverage, as needed. • Provide assistance or training to other Lab Analysts and Lab Aides, as needed. • Perform laboratory duties following approved methods SOPs in an accurate, timely, and economical manner. • Maintain laboratory equipment and facility per schedule and SOPs in a timely manner with action taken as appropriate. • Perform laboratory QC program requirements in a timely and accurate manner with corrective action taken for non-compliant samples, results, or trends. • Assist with maintaining an effective training verification program. • Provide on-call coverage on weekends and holidays. • Flexible hours with occasional weekend and holiday work. • Accepts special projects and completes them accurately and timely. The above list reflects the general details necessary to describe the principle and essential functions of the position and shall not be construed as the only duties that may be assigned for the position. COMPETENCIES: Approachability Puts others at ease by listening, allowing adequate time for interactions, and giving undivided attention. Show receptivity to message being delivered. Collaboration Seeks and enlists active participation of others to reach goals. Customer Focus Builds effective relationships, identifies customer expectations, sees issues from their point of view; offers practical recommendations. Dependability Meets deadlines, works independently, accountable, maintains focus, punctual, good attendance record. Ethics & Integrity Possesses a strong set of core values and beliefs consistent with social, ethical, and organizational principles. Confronts unethical situations. Innovation Generates new ideas and approaches to enhance the organization's systems, products, or effectiveness. Personal Accountability Accepts responsibility for own actions including failure. Embraces experience as learning opportunities and not chances to blames. Results Orientated Drives behavior to emphasize achievement. Self-directed toward accomplishment. Is action oriented. Likes challenge. Pursues Opportunities. Consistently high achieving. Time Management/ Prioritization Determines the interrelationships and relative importance of tasks and allocates time efficiently to the most important issues. Knows what not to spend time on; completes work in a timely fashion. Trust & Respect Offers respect to all in the work environment, adheres to high personal standards of acceptance, reliability, openness, and consistency of action with words. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Education: Associate’s degree in a related field with relevant experience. Experience or Training: Good problem-solving, time management, and organizational skills. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and to work in a group setting. Good verbal and written skills to effectively communicate. High degree of professionalism and confidentiality. Technology/Equipment: Strong computer skills with proficiency in MS office (Word, Excel, Outlook). PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Education: Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or related field. Experience or Training: 2 years of experience in a food laboratory. Knowledge of GLPs. Technology/Equipment: Prior experience with computer-based LIMS. PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS: An individual must meet the mental and physical requirements described here to successfully perform this position's essential functions. Intermittent (less than 15%), Occasional (15-45%), Frequent (50-75%), and Continuous (over 75%) • Manual dexterity to operate all office and laboratory equipment efficiently Continuous • Visual dexterity to operate all office and laboratory equipment efficiently Continuous • Ability to distinguish color Continuous • Walking Frequent • Bending Frequent • Stooping Frequent • Reach above shoulders Frequent • Standing Frequent • Sitting Frequent • Talking Frequent • Hearing Frequent • Finger manipulation Frequent • Exposure to cold, hot, damp, and noisy environments Intermittent • Lift and carry up to 40 lbs. Intermittent WORKING ENVIRONMENT: The majority of work duties are conducted in a manufacturing environment. There may be areas requiring the use of PPE, uniform or protective clothing, and safety equipment. EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: An individual in this position must successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities, and the physical and mental demands listed above. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.