Plant Lab Technologist

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The Laboratory Technologist conducts routine laboratory testing following established protocols and work plans under the direction of his/her Supervisor. The technologist will issue results and may compare current test results to established baseline data. The Laboratory Technologist is often assigned to record basic instrument performance data such as temperature readings for incubators or refrigerators.

Core Responsibilities

Microbiology and Chemistry Tests

• Conducts routine microbiology and/or chemistry tests according to established protocols.

Data Entry

• Data entry into a computer database to generate reports and distribute to management.

Analysis Preparation

• Includes but is not limited to: proficiency testing, sample receiving and grinding; preparation of media, collecting and setting up samples for analysis, reading analysis results and documenting equipment performance (i.e. temperature in incubators).

• This also includes cleaning of equipment and limited purchasing of supplies.

Absence

• In the absence of key personnel the employee's supervisor or qualified designee (one that has been trained in the key employee's duties) is responsible to complete or delegate the completion of all required tasks and responsibilities.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

• High School Diploma or GED, required.

• BA/BS degree and 2+ years' relevant experience is a plus.

• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.

• Ability to accurately enter test results in a data base.

• Ability to use a variety of basic laboratory equipment.

• Strong attention to detail.

• Must have the ability to complete required applicable forms in English, which requires the ability to read and write in English.

• Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.

• Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Office and laboratorysetting. The laboratoryenvironment will include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals.

• Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate however some test equipment can be loud.

• Regularly required to stand; sit; walk; use hands to handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear and smell.

• Frequently required to lift up to 25 pounds.Occasionallyrequired to lift up to 50 pounds.

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• If the laboratory has a Lab Technician and the Associate Chemist is the senior position in the lab, the Associate Chemist is responsible and accountable for the training of the lab technician. This includes ensuring proper training using the methods and procedures provided in Smithfield's laboratory manual.

• If the Associate Chemist is the senior position in the laboratory, this position is accountable for the testing accuracy of the lab technician.

Relocation Package Available

Eligible for Company Vehicle

EEO Information

Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.