Quality Assurance Lab Technician 4 - 1st Shift

Perdue Farms; Bridgewater (VA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical & Rx

401(k) with company match

Dental & Vision

Life insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

Perdue Farms in Bridgewater, VA, is seeking a Quality Assurance Lab Technician 4 to ensure product quality and safety through microbiological and chemical testing. You will prepare, track, and analyze samples, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and support continuous improvement in a fast-paced lab environment.

The role offers wage range of $20-$30 per hour, with overtime potential and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, 401(k) with employer match, and more.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field required.
• Associate’s Degree with at least 2 years of relevant experience may be considered.
• Strong written and verbal communication and math skills; proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological testing on finished products, raw materials, and in-process samples.
• Perform microbiological testing on environmental samples to monitor sanitation and compliance.
• Perform limited chemical testing to support plant needs.
• Prepare cultures and log daily samples for testing.
• Record and validate data using defined methods and computer systems.
• Maintain laboratory sanitation and equipment and ensure safety.

Skills

Microbiological testing

Chemical testing

Data entry

Laboratory teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s degree in science-related field

Associate’s degree + 2 years experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

Summary

Ensure the quality and safety of products that make a difference every day. As a Quality Assurance Lab Technician 4, you will play a key role in supporting laboratory operations by preparing, tracking, and analyzing samples while performing microbiological and chemical testing to ensure accurate, reliable results. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to maintain testing standards, support product quality initiatives, and contribute to a culture of food safety and continuous improvement. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented, analytical professional who thrives in a fast-paced laboratory environment and is passionate about delivering high-quality results.

This position has a target wage range of $20-$30 per hour, based on shift, experience and qualifications with annual bonus available (variable depending on performance). Overtime may be available.
In addition to hourly wages, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx,401(k)with employer match after 1year, criticalillness, accident insurance, dental,vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.

Schedule

Monday through Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological testing on finished products, raw materials, and in-process samples to meet company, customer, and regulatory requirements and monitor process control.
• Perform microbiological testing on environmental samples to monitor sanitation efficacy and meet company, customer, and regulatory requirements.
• Perform limited chemical testing on finished products and processing aids to support plant needs.
• Accurately sort, identify, and log daily samples collected for testing.
• Accurately interpret, report, and file test results using defined methods.
• Preparing culture media is necessary for sample testing and collection.
• Use autoclaves, balances, measuring, weighing, and dispensing devices.
• Handle chemicals and reagents using appropriate protective equipment and safe handling techniques.
• Perform microbiological, odor, and other testing for shelf-life projects.
• Handle products beyond spoilage dates as required for shelf-life testing.
• Maintain laboratory sanitation and cleanliness.
• Maintain and verify equipment accuracy.
• Keep work areas free of safety hazards and work safely.
• Use computers to create, log, and identify samples; record and validate data; and print paperwork and reports.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field.
• Associate’s Degree and a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience may be considered under special circumstances.
• Good written and oral communication, science, math, and reading skills.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products and ability to use computers as a working tool.

Preferred Education and Experience

• 2–4 years of relevant experience.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors

• Position requires standing and walking for extended periods and moving throughout the facility to collect and transport samples, equipment, and supplies.
• Must be able to observe color changes in reactions and product samples.
• Must be able to detect odors using the sense of smell.
• Must be able to bend, twist, reach, grasp, and climb stairs.
• Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds and carry up to 40 pounds for short distances.
• Most work is performed inside the laboratory where temperatures generally range from 60–80°F and humidity ranges from ambient to 85%.
• May require entry into processing plant environments with exposure to wet and moist floors, including metal and plastic grating surfaces.
• May be exposed to temperatures ranging from 0–120°F, humidity from 0–100%, and noise levels from 50–110 dB.
• Wear all personal protective equipment designated by the Company when in plant environments.
• Handle chemicals, reagents, and hot and cold liquids used in testing and media preparation.
• May be exposed to chemicals used in poultry, food, and processing facilities.
• Must be able to wear and use all required protective and safety equipment.
• May be exposed to pathogenic organisms and hazardous chemicals.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.