Job Purpose:
To monitor the Laboratory quality system compliance and effectiveness through planned audits and independent process control checks to ensure that our products comply with food safety legislation, meet the technical and quality specification and are manufactured at best cost. To ensure customer expectations are met and exceeded at every level.

Job Context:
Reporting directly to Technical team leader for day to day operations, working alongside factory colleagues and key disciplines i.e. EHS/production/process/despatch, etc ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures.
As a member of the QEHS team you will be expected to lead by example.

Laboratory Technician Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Sampling as scheduled at all specific points on raw materials, manufacturing process and finished goods in terms of chemical and microbiological analysis
Micro analysis of samples as per specified methods
Carry out product sensory panels to meet requirements
Ensure that all quality and food safety checks are carried out satisfactorily
Inform Technical Team of results outside specification for instigation of corrective actions
Control of the Non-conformance data base
Ensure that all tasks are completed daily/weekly/ monthly as per schedule
Control Training Matrix and ensure that all trainings are up to date
Ensure that all Laboratory Documents are up to date
Ensure compliance against laboratory standards and procedures
Ensure that all analytical equipment is maintained and calibrated to the required standards and schedules
Ensure raw materials & chemicals used within laboratory are within acceptable date criteria
Arrange service contracts and maintain equipment to high standards
Order all materials and equipment as required
Ensure the quality laboratory operation meets the requirements of external accredited bodies by following procedures carefully
Ensure that all process confirmations in the lab are carried out in a timely manner (T-Cards, 5S)
Support each other within team to provide resource whenever required to resolve problems and prevent customer & consumer complaints
Give technical support to the other company departments when required
Observe company health and safety procedures as laid down, and be proactive in ensuring continuance of updating procedures
Ensure that GMP and internal audits are completed on time
Assist Quality Management with implementation of quality systems and project work
Assist the Technical Team leader with organising appropriate cover for the lab in case of sickness, holidays, etc.Candidate Profile

Practical experience of Good Laboratory Practices, microbiology testing experience
Experience in similar role in a manufacturing environment working within QA / Sensory and laboratory accreditation standards
Ability to work on own initiative as well as part of a team
Good written and verbal communication skills
Ability to interact with multiple levels within the business as well as with external contactors
PC literate with the ability to interpret analytical and microbiological data
Working knowledge of SAP would be advantageous
Ability and willingness to learn new skills
Excellent attention to detail
Ability to work on the shift pattern (12h day shift including weekends and Bank holidays)
Ability to be on the "On Call roster" for the weekend coverKey qualifications for the role:

Science degree of equivalent
Food Safety Level 2
Food Hygiene Level 2
Internal Auditor (preferable)Working on a continental shift basis where every 5th week is off.
£12.50 per hour