This opportunity is located within our AFB International business, the global science and technology leader in pet food palatability. We develop and produce a full range of liquid and dry palatability enhancers using high-quality ingredients proven to optimize companion animal response and consumption. Click here (http://afbinternational.com/about/) to learn more. Job Description Within the Quality Assurance Lab, performs microbiological and chemical laboratory analyses to ensure product compliance to quality standards. Essential Duties and Responsibilities + Perform routine microbial and chemical analysis of raw material, in-process and finished products in accordance with testing methodology with high regard to safety, quality, cost and timing. + Collect, prepare, ship and document product samples in accordance with quality assurance testing program. + Perform calibration, maintain documentation and routine maintenance on laboratory equipment as applicable. + Maintain good laboratory practices (GLPs) ensuring safety and sanitation are key components of everyday tasks. + Prepare all standards, solutions, and media required for testing. + Provide support to internal and external customers. + Create reports and COAs based on testing results as necessary to provide information to the organization, customers, and suppliers. + Clear, release, and place on hold raw materials and finished products using LIMS (Lab Information Management System) and inventory management system. + Support the lab in achieving and maintaining ISO 17025 accreditation. + Report and document non-conformances in a timely manner and aid in investigation and corrective actions. + Provide support to AFB-O’Fallon and co-manufacturing facilities as needed. Supervisory Responsibilities This position will not have direct reports. Qualifications + Required: + Bachelor’s degree in the field of science (Biology, Chemistry, or Microbiology) and no experience; or equivalent combination of education and/or experience. + Desired: + Experience in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory Knowledge, Skills & Abilities To perform this job successfully, an individual should have the following knowledge, skills and abilities: + Knowledge of safety practices applicable to laboratory environments and ability to follow designated safety procedures. + Ability to maintain accurate records relating to jobs as they are planned performed and completed. Skill to use electronic means for recording data. + Knowledge of properties and applications of ingredients and materials involved in testing and the skill to safely handle them. + Excellent interpersonal communication skills to interact effectively with peers, co-workers, scientists, researchers, supervisors, customers and vendors as required. + Ability to follow instructions and respond to management direction. + Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical materials. + Proficient skill level in MS Office Applications such as Word, Excel. Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand for extended periods of time, sit and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. The employee will be required to work 10 hour shifts, including every other weekend. Work Environment The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet. AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status. Ensign-Bickford Industries, (http://e-bind.com) (EBI), founded in 1836, is a privately-owned high technology conglomerate that participates in businesses that are relevant to the future of the world and have multigenerational growth prospects. Over the last 186 years, EBI has grown into a global science and technology leader in pet food science, space and defense, and diagnostic solutions. Our businesses are unified by a common shared operating system and a common set of Core Values. Watch the video above to learn more about some of the incredible challenges we take on every day to deliver the best product for our customers, and ultimately the world. The simple truth is: When you are a part of our team, you stand head and shoulders above the rest. We conduct business in a manner that reflects the highest human and ethical standards, with a commitment to mutually beneficial partnerships, and a belief in the efficacy of genuine economic and social service. Click here to learn about our Core Values (https://ensign-bickfordind.com/ebi-core-values/) AFB International + AFB is the leader in pet food flavor enhancers. Ensuring product performance for pet food manufacturers—and their customers—is our business. ⠀ Cawood (https://cawood.co.uk/) + Cawood is the UK’s leading scientific group, recognized for its technical capability and value-added service to customers in land-based industries. ⠀ Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company (http://www.ensign-bickfordind.com/subsidiaries/ensign-bickford-aerospace-defense/) + EBAD is a global leader in precision energetic systems and other innovative explosives, non-explosive and electromechanical solutions for the defense and aerospace markets. ⠀ EnviroLogix (http://www.ensign-bickfordind.com/subsidiaries/envirologix-inc/) + EnviroLogix is an industry leader in the development and manufacturing of tests for the rapid detection of GMOs and mycotoxins throughout the worldwide food production chain.