Lab Assistant

Suncoast Gold Macadamias; Gympie Regional; On-site; AUD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Suncoast Gold Macadamias is seeking Laboratory Assistants for its on-site Technical Services team in Gympie, QLD. You will conduct routine and specialized testing on raw materials, in-process product, and finished goods, while supporting hygiene, sanitation and quality assurance programs across the facility.

Join a growth-focused food manufacturing environment with structured training to progress toward AMS laboratory assessor status, and contribute to ensuring product safety and compliance in a

Qualifications

• Qualifications in food processing or related field (highly desirable).
• Competence with Microsoft Office programs, especially Excel data type entry packages.
• Strong communication, numeracy, literacy, and attention to detail are essential.

Responsibilities

• Completing all laboratory records and documentation accurately.
• Entering data using computer systems, including Excel and QAD.
• Participating in product recall procedures, internal audits, and inspections.
• Ensuring adherence to hygiene, GMP, HACCP and WHS standards.
• Communicating effectively with production, warehouse, and other teams.
• Assisting in the preparation and updating of Work Instructions.
• Participation in training programs and risk assessments for lab testing.

Skills

Excel data entry

Attention to detail

Strong communication

Numeracy

Team player

Education

Food processing qualification

Tools

QAD

Job description

Suncoast Gold Macadamias (SGM) was established in 1985 as a macadamia grower co-operative. Our head office and processing facility are located in Gympie, Queensland, the birthplace of the global macadamia industry.

SGM has developed a reputation both in Australia and around the world for the efficiency of its operations, quality of its products and a comprehensive client service. We service Macadamia growers from Atherton Tablelands in the North of QLD through to the Mid North Coast of NSW.

Our growers produce the finest quality macadamias and are committed to food safety and sustainable production. Our factory utilises the latest in technology to guarantee our customers consistent quality and product of the highest standard.

Suncoast Gold is 100% grower owned, with all profits returned to growers. Our macadamia products are 100% Australian grown, cracked and processed.

About the Role

We are seeking several motivated and detail‑oriented Laboratory Assistants to join our Technical Services team. At least one position will be permanent, with other positions potentially permanent or casual. In this role, you will play a vital part in ensuring our products meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance. Working within our on‑site laboratory, you will conduct routine and specialised testing on raw materials, in‑process product, and finished goods, while supporting ongoing hygiene, sanitation, and quality assurance programs across the facility.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their laboratory skills within the food manufacturing industry and progress through training to become a recognised AMS laboratory assessor.

Key Responsibilities

As part of our Technical Services Laboratory team, you will be responsible for:

Laboratory Testing & Quality Assessments

• Conducting kernel style assessments, screen tests, cracker tests, moisture determination (IR and oven), and commercial/reject kernel testing.
• Performing oxygen level checks, foil integrity tests, cooking quality tests, preparation and sample collection, condition monitoring checks across the factory process.
• Supporting oven temperature checks, thermometer calibrations, and food manufacturing & general verification & validation activities.

Quality Systems & Documentation

• Completing all laboratory records and documentation accurately.
• Entering data using computer systems, including Excel and QAD.
• Participating in product recall procedures, internal audits, and inspections.

Factory Hygiene, Safety & Compliance

• Ensuring adherence to hygiene, sanitation, GMP, HACCP, and WHS standards.
• Reporting foreign matter sightings and following proper disposal procedures for sharp objects and broken glass.
• Supporting preparation for government inspections and external audits.
• Communicating effectively with production, warehouse, and other operational teams across the business.
• Assisting in the preparation and updating of Work Instructions.
• Making recommendations for process improvements and supporting factory operations when required.
• Participating in in‑house and external training programs.
• Assessing risks for laboratory testing activities and reporting any changes to risk profiles.
• Ensuring all testing is conducted in line with approved procedures and safety standards.

About You

Applicants must have permanent working rights in Australia - no Visa applicants will be considered.

We are looking for someone who brings:

Skills & Qualifications

• Qualifications in food processing or a related field (highly desirable).
• Competence with Microsoft Office programs, especially Excel data type entry packages.
• Strong communication, numeracy, literacy, and attention to detail are essential.

Experience

• Previous experience in a food processing or laboratory environment (preferred).

Personal Attributes

• Strong focus on accuracy, reliability, and meeting deadlines.
• A team‑oriented attitude and a willingness to learn.
• Understanding of GMP, Food Hygiene, HACCP and WHS principles.
• Ability to work shift variations in line with production needs. For example 6am-2:30pm, or 2:30pm-11pm.

Why Join Us?

• Work in a supportive technical team dedicated to quality and continuous improvement.
• Develop your laboratory skills with structured training and cross‑department upskilling.
• Contribute to ensuring the highest level of product quality in a respected food manufacturing facility.