Lab Analyst

Certified Group; Aurora (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Certified Group is a network of laboratories delivering analytical testing and regulatory support across food, beverage, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals. The role focuses on analytical and microbiological testing of foods, ingredients, and environmentals, applying approved techniques.

Candidates hold a biology-related degree, with 2+ years in commercial labs, and will perform routine test analysis, maintain instruments, and support quality objectives, traveling as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, chemistry or related science field.
• 2+ years of experience in a commercial food-testing or analytical laboratory.
• Working knowledge of aseptic sampling technique, automated lab equipment, and acceptable methods and procedures.
• Familiarity with GLP, OSHA guidelines, FDA, BAM, APHA, ISO, and USP methods and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Accurately perform and read test results and notify Laboratory Management of deviations.
• Prepare and analyze samples for indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemistries.
• Apply aseptic/microbiological techniques in daily workload.
• Report inventory and expendable supplies/materials needed for testing requirements.
• Provide routine preventive maintenance by daily cleaning, sanitizing, trash disposal, and equipment quality control.
• Assist in quality duties by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, running media controls, etc.
• Pursue an assigned series of processes, procedures, or techniques in accordance with FSNS policies/procedures and customer requirements.
• Maintain a high degree of technical competence by reading scientific journals, attending professional workshops, and being aware of food industry issues and trends.
• Perform all activities in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner.
• Share information in an open and timely manner.
• Assist with managing priorities and schedule such that individual goals as well as team goals are achieved with encouraged participation in the Food Safety Net Services Team.
• Responsible for the safety of oneself and others working within their area.

Skills

Aseptic sampling

Microbiology

Quality control

Laboratory ethics

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or related science field

Tools

Automated lab equipment

Job description

Certified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific solutions and expertise – So The World Can Trust In What It Consumes™. Our network of 30+ North American and European laboratories serves the food & beverage, dietary supplements, cosmetics, OTC, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, and hemp industries.

Our Brands

Certified Group is comprised of a set of specialized brands that collectively deliver laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly regulated industries:

• Certified Laboratories – Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily supporting food, beverage, cosmetics, OTC, and dietary supplement industries.
• Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) – A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food industry.
• Labstat – A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next‑generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology.
• EAS Consulting Group – A regulatory consulting firm offering expert guidance, training, and auditing support across FDA, USDA, and other regulated sectors, powered by a large network of independent advisors.
• FSNS Certification & Audit – Provides accredited third‑party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs.

Job Summary:

Perform analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmentals. The position performs the application and evaluation of approved microbiological techniques and methodologies.

Responsibilities:

• Accurately perform and read test results and notify Laboratory Management of deviations
• Prepare and analyze samples for indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemistries
• Apply aseptic/microbiological techniques in daily workload
• Report inventory and expendable supplies/materials needed for testing requirements
• Provide routine preventive maintenance by daily cleaning, sanitizing, trash disposal, and equipment quality control
• Assist in quality duties to by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, running media controls, etc.
• Pursue an assigned series of processes, procedures, or techniques in accordance with FSNS policies/procedures and customer requirements
• Maintain a high degree of technical competence by reading scientific journals, attending professional workshops, and being aware of food industry issues and trends
• Perform all activities in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner
• Share information in an open and timely manner
• Assisting with managing priorities and schedule such that individual goals as well as team goals are achieved with encouraged participation in the Food Safety Net Services Team
• Responsible for the safety of oneself and others working within their area

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or related science field
• 2 or more years of experience in a commercial food-testing or analytical laboratory
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Working knowledge of aseptic sampling technique, automated lab equipment, and acceptable methods and procedures
• Familiarity with GLP, OSHA guidelines, FDA, BAM, APHA, ISO, and USP methods and procedures
• Broad knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures of a food testing laboratory
• Ability to travel when necessary

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse and to handle other communications/computer components
• Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogens
• Noise level varies from quiet to loud
• Temperature varies from hot to cold
• Interactive and fast-paced team oriented tasks
• Overnight Travel is required at the discretion of management
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
• Color vision and depth perception

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We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.