Laboratory Technician - 2nd Shift

Bell & Evans; Fredericksburg (PA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Bell & Evans is seeking an entry-level Laboratory Technician I to support Food Safety/Quality Assurance, Hatchery, Live Operations, and R&D through routine microbiological, chemical, and organoleptic testing. The role develops foundational lab skills and ensures accurate execution of procedures to maintain daily lab operations.

Responsibilities include sample analysis, media preparation, inventory maintenance, instrument calibration checks, and adherence to GLPs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s/Associate degree or certificate in Microbiology, Food Science, or related field.
• Basic proficiency in laboratory techniques.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and communication tools.
• Ability to adapt to shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• ISO 17025 or LIMS experience preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Perform qualitative and quantitative microbial analyses on product and environmental samples (e.g., Salmonella, Campylobacter, Staphylococcus, E. coli, yeast and mold).
• Conduct basic chemical analyses such as moisture, fat, protein, ash, free fatty acids, peroxide value, and pH.
• Maintain inventory of testing supplies and prepare media/reagents.
• Follow daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedules to maintain a safe work environment.
• Communicate testing results and discrepancies to appropriate departments and participate in internal audits and proficiency programs.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

Microsoft Office

Communication

Adaptability

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s/Associate degree or certificate in Microbiology or Food Science

Tools

LIMS

Job description

The Laboratory Technician I is an entry-level role responsible for performing routine microbiological, chemical, and organoleptic testing to support the Food Safety/Quality Assurance, Hatchery, Live Operations, and Research and Development departments by performing microbiological, chemical, and organoleptic analysis on product and environmental samples. This position focuses on developing foundational laboratory skills, accurately executing established procedures, and contributing to the daily operation and upkeep of the laboratory.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Routine Microbiological and Chemical Testing

• Perform and interpret qualitative and quantitative microbial analyses on product and environmental samples (e.g., Salmonella, Campylobacter, Staphylococcus, E. coli, yeast and mold).
• Conduct basic chemical analyses such as moisture, fat, protein, ash, free fatty acids, peroxide value, and pH.

New Product Development Support

• Participate in scheduled sensory analyses.
• Assist with shelf-life studies.

Laboratory Operations

• Maintain inventory of testing supplies.
• Prepare media and reagents as instructed.
• Perform basic monitoring of instrument functionality and calibration status.
• Follow daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedules to maintain a safe work environment.

Quality & Compliance

• Follow Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs).
• Participate in proficiency testing programs.
• Support quality initiatives through accurate test execution and consistent documentation.
• Communicate testing failures and errors to appropriate departments.
• Participate in internal audits, projects, and departmental meetings as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s, Associate’s degree, or certificate in Microbiology, Food Science, or related field.
• Basic proficiency in laboratory techniques preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and communication tools.
• Ability to adapt to shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• ISO 17025 or LIMS experience preferred but not required.