Job Opening: Laboratory Technician
Description
Lab Technician / Quality & Food Safety (QFS) Specialist
Location: Oxnard, CA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday (may vary based on business needs)
About the Opportunity
A growing leader in the food manufacturing industry, is seeking a detail-oriented Lab Technician / Quality & Food Safety (QFS) Specialist to join their Technical and Quality team. This role is responsible for supporting quality control programs, conducting laboratory testing, maintaining documentation, and helping ensure compliance with food safety and regulatory standards.
The ideal candidate is highly organized, enjoys hands-on laboratory work, and thrives in a collaborative environment working closely with Quality Assurance, Research & Development, Procurement, Production, and Technical Services teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Receive, log, track, and organize incoming ingredient samples for quality evaluation and review.
- Assist with reviewing technical specifications, Certificates of Analysis (COAs), country-of-origin documents, and third-party certifications.
- Support supplier qualification and product matching activities.
- Conduct and assist with laboratory testing, including:
- Moisture content testing
- Water activity (Aw) testing
- Solubility analysis
- Particle size and sieve analysis
- Color evaluation using spectrophotometry
- Bulk density and flowability testing
- Sensory evaluations including aroma, flavor, color, and appearance
- Document test results accurately in spreadsheets, reports, and quality databases.
- Prepare samples and maintain laboratory records to support traceability and audit readiness.
- Verify calibration and perform basic maintenance of laboratory equipment.
- Support shelf-life studies and prepare evaluation reports.
- Monitor laboratory inventory and coordinate replenishment of supplies.
- Follow GMP, HACCP, allergen control, and food safety procedures.
- Participate in internal audits and assist with corrective action follow-up.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet product evaluation and testing timelines.
- Assist with special projects, inspections, and additional quality-related initiatives as assigned.
Qualifications
Required
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Basic proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word.
- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Effective time management and communication abilities.
- Ability to work independently while contributing to a team environment.
- Knowledge of food safety and quality practices.
Preferred
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.
- 1-2 years of experience in food manufacturing, quality assurance, quality control, or laboratory support.
- HACCP and/or FSPCA training.
- Bilingual Spanish-English skills.
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