Micro Lab Tech

For our state-of-the art 600+ person Lubbock, TX cheese and whey manufacturing facility, Leprino is seeking a Micro Lab Tech. 

The Micro Lab Quality Technician is responsible for the monitoring of all aspects of microbiology testing, from in-process samples, finished product and other microbiological surveillance as needed for the plant and reports results to appropriate management personnel. 

All other duties as assigned.

Job Duties (Accountability Categories and Essential Functions/Key Responsibilities):  NOTE:  The job may include other “non-essential” responsibilities and duties that are not listed on this form.

• Test final product (Cheese, WPC, Lactose and NFDM) from previous production date based on the requirements of specific product code for bacteriological testing. Testing in-process and swab sampling for bacteriological testing.  Enable plant environmental swab program.
• Advise appropriate management personnel about specification conditions, recommending corrective measures.
• Exhibit excellent decision making skills in product grading
• Utilize the FLEX and SAP to input date from testing procedures
• Represent the Quality Execution Department during corporate, regional, or customer visits.
• The Micro Quality Lab Technician must be able to understand the requirements of the position and successfully demonstrate proficiency in the job specific PSOP Job Certification.
• Perform work in a safe manner by following safety procedures and policies, critical safety rules, and expected standard conduct.
• Maintain 5S standards. Other accountabilities as given direction by Quality Execution Leadership Team.
• This position is responsible and accountable to ensure product meets food safety, regulatory, and quality requirements by following the Food Safety Plan, Quality Plan, and company policies. 

Minimum Qualifications & Experience:

• Must be 18 years of age
• Must be able to read, write and speak the English language in order to understand/adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP's), to communicate effectively with others, to complete required documentation both in written and electronic form, and to troubleshoot systems utilizing the English language. 
• Must have the ability to perform essential job functions
• Must wear required personal protective equipment
• Must comply with all applicable safety practices
• Maintain a clean work area
• Complete written reports
• Perform basic and intermediate mathematical calculations
• Enter data into and pull data from computer systems
• Must possess considerable problem-solving ability in dealing with equipment or troubleshooting when supervision is not readily available for consultation
• Must have an understanding of basic chemistry or biology, and basic lab equipment and testing through on the job experience, or through high school or college coursework.
• Experience with computers and programs

Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

• 2 years of work experience in a similar type position, experience in instrumentation operation and troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment, and experience with aseptic technique and sample pulling is preferred.

Advanced level science knowledge (e.g. chemistry, biology, microbiology); and lab work experience (e.g. computer-assisted analytical equipment, microbiological testing) is also preferred.

Offering you in return:

A chance to be part of a global team of individuals passionate about producing and delivering high-quality products that help feed and nourish families around the world. Leprino Foods could not be where it is today without our incredible employees. That is why we share in our success together by rewarding you for your hard work. Hiring great people who are in it for the long run is our goal. Through competitive salaries, tuition assistance, vacation, holiday, dedicated sick time, matching 401(k), annual merit increases and bonuses, as well as our annual Profit-Sharing plan. Your impact will be noticed and rewarded, as you seek to further our company, our customers, and one another.

Our Story:

Leprino Foods’ history dates back over 65 years, when Jim Leprino first started making small batches of mozzarella for local markets and eateries in the Little Italy neighborhood of Denver. We’ve grown a bit since then. Today, Leprino is the world’s largest manufacturer of mozzarella and lactose, and a leading producer of whey protein. Still owned by Jim and the Leprino family, our sights are set to be the “World’s Best Dairy Food and Ingredient Company.” To help us achieve that bold vision, we’re looking for our secret ingredient: You. A motivated team member who is the best at what you do. Three people in a small corner grocery store in the early 1950s have now grown to over 4,300 employees throughout 16 global locations. Will you join us on our journey?

Leprino Foods Company utilizes the services of Psychemedics to perform our Hair Follicle Drug Testing.  Additional information about this process can be obtained at www.psychemedics.com  

Leprino Foods Company supports a drug-free workplace and is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer – M/F/Disability/Veteran

 
Leprino Foods requires all individuals to wear the appropriate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) as required by the role and location