Feed Lab Technician

Butterball; Goldsboro (NC); On-site; USD 35,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Butterball is seeking a Laboratory Technician to perform standardized qualitative and quantitative assays on food products and samples. Responsibilities include handling samples, preparing solutions, maintaining equipment, and conducting microbiological and chemical analyses to ensure regulatory compliance.

The role requires attention to detail, ability to work in a fast-paced team environment, and proficiency with data entry and documentation.

Qualifications

• Proficiency with word processing and spreadsheet software.
• Basic arithmetic, algebra, statistics and applications.
• Ability to conduct tests and inspections to evaluate quality or performance.
• Detail oriented with data entry accuracy.
• Ability to work with cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Receive, log, store laboratory samples and materials.
• Prepare standard solutions and reagents for microbiological/chemical testing.
• Maintain stock of lab materials and perform routine equipment maintenance.
• Conduct regular calibration/verification of lab equipment.
• Analyze food ingredients and samples for quality per SOPs and standards.
• Enter test data into databases and prepare graphs/reports.

Skills

Word processing

Spreadsheets

Data entry

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or GED

Two-year degree in Animal Science / Poultry / Biology / Microbiology

Tools

Laboratory instruments

Job description

Overview

Performs standardized qualitative and quantitative assays to identify physical, chemical, and microbiological properties of food products and other samples. Conducts standardized tests on food to ensure compliance with standards and regulations regarding factors such as color, texture, nutrients, and microbiological content. Performs laboratory preparation activities and analyses to provide useful, accurate technical information to necessary team members.

Key Responsibilities

• Receives, logs, and stores laboratory samples.
• Prepares standard solutions and reagents for use in microbiological/chemical testing.
• Maintains stock of lab materials.
• Performs routine maintenance of lab equipment.
• Performs regular verification/calibration of lab equipment.
• Monitors product quality to ensure compliance with standards and specifications.
• Assesses product to ensure specifications are met and to detect potential problems. This may include tasting, smelling or visual inspection.
• Performs chemical, physical, and/or microbiological analyses of food ingredients, raw and finished food samples, feed, and/or environmental samples using established methods and procedures.
• Carries out routine laboratory functions, such as sample disposal, equipment checks, cleaning, etc.
• Enters sample and test data into computer databases to ensure products are meeting published customer service standards.
• Records and compiles test results and prepares graphs, charts, and reports.
• Collects samples as needed.

Minimum Qualifications (Education & Experience)

• 1+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role and a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Or two-year degree in Animal Science, Poultry, Biology, and Microbiology.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

Essential Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Proficiency in use of word processing and spreadsheet software.
• Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, statistics, and their applications.
• Basic understanding and ability to use scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
• Ability to conduct tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
• Ability to work with cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated ability to perform on all test methods, SOPs and instrument calibrations to a level sufficient to perform all assigned work and to train others.
• Good communication skills and ability to work in a team-based environment.
• Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Skilled at solving routine problems using established standards.
• Detail oriented with the ability to maintain accuracy in data entry.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Experience in food manufacturing.

Physical Demands

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to stand, sit, talk, hear, reach, stoop, kneel, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, keyboard, and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

Working Conditions & Travel Requirements

• Work will be performed in a variety of conditions including climate-controlled office and laboratory environments; in a manufacturing plant environment with varying conditions, such as cold areas, wet areas, warm areas, chemicals, and other site conditions; and in a farm environment including working outdoors in seasonal conditions with live animals. Personal protective equipment may be required in laboratory, manufacturing, and farm environments. Occasional infection-control precautions may be needed around animals.
• The noise level of the office, laboratory and farm environments is usually moderate; manufacturing environments may exceed 85 DBA and require hearing protection. Showering in and out of farm locations may be required.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Disclaimer

We embrace equal opportunity employment. The position is Safety Sensitive for purposes of Drug/Alcohol Screening & Testing Policy. Statements describe the general nature and level of work and are not exhaustive or a contract of employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.