Job Title: Lab Technician Job Description The Laboratory Technician will be responsible for testing both raw and processed fluid milk and soft serve ice cream products using the latest testing equipment. Effective communication and teamwork skills are essential. The role involves performing sterility swabs, contaminant checks, and allergen testing. The technician will frequently move between the lab and the plant for various testing and plating tasks. Responsibilities + Operate milk laboratory equipment, including FT1 component analyzer, Celsis Innovate CellScan analyzer, pH meter, autoclave, refractometer, analytical scales, incubators, 3M petrifilm, etc. + Perform approved testing methods for rapid screening of antibiotics and allergens + Conduct analytical testing for dairy product components + Monitor weight control of finished products + Execute ATP bioluminescence rapid assays and microbial screening tests for UHT and ESL products prior to release and for shelf-life duration + Calibrate laboratory equipment + Prepare Bills of Lading for outgoing product loads + Prepare mix formulations for daily production needs + Identify and resolve technical and instrumental problems + Use software programs specific to the dairy industry + Report any deviations from company specifications to management promptly + Maintain solid planning and organizational skills and manage multiple projects with limited supervision + Comply with GMP, Safety, and Work Policies + Perform other duties as assigned Essential Skills + Knowledge of sterile techniques + Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Food Sciences, or related field (or equivalent industry experience) + Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other relevant programs + Ability to perform physical tasks including standing, walking, stooping, reaching, climbing, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling objects up to 50lbs + Self-starter with the ability to work independently + Good time management skills + Flexibility to take on additional tasks + Strong organizational and detail orientation + Excellent verbal and written communication skills + Ability to maintain flexible hours, including weekends and holidays Additional Skills & Qualifications + Micro exposure ideal but not mandatory + No food experience required but must be able to multitask + Experience in a lab/production setting preferred Work Environment This is a full-time position requiring 40 hours per week with 8-hour shifts. Overtime is available. Comprehensive training will be provided, including GMP, HACCP, and Allergen training. The work environment is 90% lab-based with occasional interaction with production workers. The role may involve working in cold conditions for short periods. The job requires both sitting and standing for 50% of the time. The candidate must be open to working various hours, including holidays, and be a team player ready to step in if another lab tech is unavailable. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $24.50 - $24.50/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in GRANITE CITY,IL. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Feb 7, 2025. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I are embedded into our culture through: + Hiring diverse talent + Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection + Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes + Ensuring growth opportunities for our people The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com (%20actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com) for other accommodation options.