In addition to the accountabilities listed for the Micro Lab Technician II role, independently performs microbiological and chemical analysis on finished product, raw materials, processing and environmental samples from manufacturing plants. Provides accurate and advanced laboratory testing to detect and enumerate organisms of interest by product in compliance with the ISO 17025 regulatory standards. Prepares media and reagents as required. Performs supervisory function in absence of lab supervisor and uses theoretical/critical thinking when evaluating test errors.
- In consultation with the lab supervisor, makes decisions in regard to interpretation/troubleshooting with test anomalies and develops corrective actions and solutions.
- Analyzes and interprets laboratory data with generated lab reports such as Excel graphs and/or charts. Reviews and follows current literature to maintain and stay current on technologies in the field of microbiology.
- Conducts compliance reviews for all paperwork and documentation errors with proper personnel. Areas of compliance to include: media, pathogens, ice cream testing, allergen testing, fridge and incubators, heating blocks.
- Ensures all lab supplies are available to the technicians and orders supplies when needed.
- Performs supervisory duties and completes scheduling in the absence of the lab supervisor.
- Updates weekly laboratory environmental swabbing database and verifies that all sites are tested once a month.
- Ensures all documentation is kept in storage for 2 years and discards out-of-date paperwork.
- Participates in audits and assists in creating CA and PA's for any deficiencies.
Wells Enterprises, a Ferrero company, is one of the largest ice cream manufacturers in the United States and the maker of well-loved brands including Blue Bunny, Halo Top, Bomb Pop, and Blue Ribbon Classics and today Trolli, Butterfinger 100grand, Baby Ruth, Nutella and Kinder Bueno.
Wells Enterprises is a 2 billion company employing 4,000 employees, across 4 production plants and 2 main hub locations, Chicago and Le Mars. Guided by innovation, quality, and a people-first mindset, Wells is committed to delighting consumers and developing exceptional teams.
As part of the Ferrero Group, Wells combines its strong U.S. heritage with Ferrero's global standards of excellence, offering a unique opportunity to grow within a dynamic, values-driven, and international environment.
At Wells, our people-and their experience-sit at the heart of our ambition. Learn more at www.wellsenterprisesinc.com.
What We Offer
At Wells, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual incentive bonus based on Company performance. Learn more about our benefits here.
In addition to the responsibilities listed above, other duties may be assigned by your supervisor, as dictated by business necessity.
- Bachelor's degree in the areas of Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or Food Science is preferred.
- Minimum 1 year experience equivalent to Tech 2 or based on competencies per assessment of management.
- Comprehensive knowledge of the practices and principles of laboratory operations, techniques and procedures utilized in areas of microbiology and chemistry.
- Effective communication skills, both written and verbal. Strong leadership, collaboration and team development skills. Lab and Computer experience (Microsoft Office).
- Strong attention to detail, process flow and accuracy.
- Uses keen observations skills and good judgment to catch and prevent lab analysis errors.
- Ability to train and mentor technicians.
- Safely and effectively operate lab equipment.
- Accurately evaluate color shades and quality.
- Ability to recommend and implement corrective actions and process improvements.
- Reports to: Corporate Lab Supervisor
- Direct Reports: N/A
- Indirect Reports: N/A
Wells Enterprises is an EEO/AA employer M/F/Vet/Dis