Schedule: This role will be split between 2nd and 3rd shift. 6pm- 2:30am

Overview: Under the direction of the Lab Manager, performs routine and special technical laboratory analyses, operates and maintains instruments according to established laboratory procedures and protocols, with a maximal degree of effectiveness to provide accurate and timely test results. Exercises judgment in recognizing and solving test-related problems. Assists the Lam Manager in proper documentation, department growth initiatives, and team development and accountability goals.

Responsibilities:

Quality Team Lead:

• Regularly assign, instruct and check the work of scheduled lab and blending employees, and provide input to the manager on employee performance and assist with weekly scheduling of employees.
• Oversee the proper documentation throughout the lab and blend rooms.
• Solves daily issues, such as blend issues or quality issues, equipment problems and or staffing issues, and informs the Lab Manager.
• Assist the Quality Manager in leading projects throughout the quality department including but not limited to sorts, holds and retests when necessary.
• Hold self and quality team accountable for implementing current and future department and company-wide policies and procedures.
• Review all lab and blend specifications daily and prepare Corrective Action if results do not meet standard or specification and advise the Lab Manager.
• Ensure that required reporting, as scheduled, including but not limited to brittle plastic/glass report, and hold report review are completed
• Document and communicate results according to all customer standards/specifications, quality requirements and Federal, State and Local regulations.
• Ensure current production forms are available in the lunchroom for Production’s use.
• Operate within safety and quality standards, good manufacturing practices (GMP’s) and adherence to job specifications.
• May participate in the interview process for new staff; participate in new employee training in Quality Department policies and procedures.
• Responsible for reading, comprehending the job standards, meeting the quality standards and specifications for products (ie: coding, carbonation (if required), pressures, air, pH, brix, Caffeine (if required), acid, weights, temperatures, time and temperature, etc.)
• Responsible for record-keeping, maintenance and purchase of lab equipment and the scheduling of annual calibration and/or repairs.
• Communicates with other Leads, Production, Managers or Warehouse to inform or receive information to ensure the department runs smoothly during the shift.
• Manage the purchasing and inventory of plant operating supplies for plant operation. Supplies include, but are not limited to, laboratory testing chemicals, laboratory equipment, GMP/PPE materials (gloves, paper towels, hand soap, etc.), production supplies (pallet tags, charts, etc.)
• Verifier for Primary Container and Case Coding.
• Assist in SOP review and revisions for approval by the Lab Manager.
• Review raw ingredients and process within guidelines to meet and maintain Kosher standards.
• Conduct daily testing of finished product for yeast, mold and coliforms.
• Provide backup support for the Lab Technicians, Blenders and Microbiologist/Lab Technician and Food Safety when needed.
• Support receiving high Fructose and CO2 delivery trucks.
• Fills in on any lines or projects as scheduled.
• Provide coverage for absences.
• Any other duties and projects as they are assigned by the Lab Manager.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• High school diploma required, associate degree in chemistry or related field preferred.
• Previous laboratory or quality control required; with Food and Beverage industry preferred
• A basic knowledge of microbiology to accurately perform testing procedures and obtain accurate results is required.
• A basic knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and policies is necessary to ensure a safe working environment.
• Required to fully comply with Quality Management System Policies and Procedures and Food Safety Management requirements.
• Must be able to work overtime as needed.
• Must be able to effectively communicate, read and comprehend instructions and procedures in English.
• Ability to demonstrate strong analytical skills with a high attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize workload and accommodate shift in daily priorities based on the needs of the business.
• Ability to demonstrate a high sense of urgency and be proactive in addressing problems as they arise.
• Ability to calculate and understand basic math and simple formulas including but not limited to: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, averages, production rates and recirculation rates.
• Proficiency in basic computer data entry and document retrieval.
• Ability to demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, cultivating a culture of trust, accountability, collaboration and teamwork.
• Ability to coach and mentor in the development of other team members when appropriate.
• Ability to provide feedback and support training and development initiatives within the department and throughout the company.