Senior Quality Control Lab Technician

An independent, family-owned business in Philadelphia, I. Rice & Co. has been making quality food products and flavors since 1884. With considerable growth and expansion, we are looking for qualified employees to help in a variety of positions. As a food manufacturing plant, I. Rice & Co. offers a diverse range of employment opportunities, from production coordination to warehouse stocking and inventory organization. With a passionate community, competitive pay, and generous bonus incentives, I. Rice offers ample opportunity for personal and professional growth.

QUALITY CONTROL SENIOR LAB TECHNICIAN 

This permanent, full-time position supports the Quality Assurance department. The Senior Lab Technician plays a critical role in maintaining and enhancing our commitment to food safety and quality. This hands-on position combines technical expertise with leadership, performing daily functions in the lab, while also supporting the Director of Quality Assurance with administering department operations, validating program CCPs, and participating in audits. Knowledge of laboratory principles is required. Product testing includes brix, pH, water activity, titrations, viscosities and organoleptic evaluations. Environment is a clean and modern lab working with terrific people.

Essential Job and Duties

Perform analytical tests on raw materials and finished products

- Maintain extensive record keeping

Assist with auditing and maintaining SQF, GMP, & HACCP programs at the plant 

Calibrate laboratory equipment 

Participate in company audits 

Work with production to make adjustments to batches in order to adhere to product specifications 

Run batch freezer to make finished product for further study and sensory evaluation 

Measure and verify raw materials needed for batching

Respond to customer questions or concerns in a professional and appropriate manner 

Inspection of inbound receipts

Maintain the finished goods retention library 

Sample finished product for microbial analysis 

Maintain raw material specification documentation and product specification documentation 

Maintain finished product specification documentation 

This position is supported by a team of technicians performing similar tasks. Our products, equipment, and methods are continually evolving. The duties associated with this position will change and evolve as needed. This individual is required to be willing and able to take on new responsibilities as needed. 

Education and Experience 

Bachelor's Degree in Food Science, R&D, or related course of study preferred 

years of related quality assurance or lab experience

Experience with FDA, USDA, GFSI, SQF, FSMA, GMP, GLP, HACCP preferred

Skills and Expectations

Ability to prioritize and organize ones work load

Ability to work in a team environment as well as individually in an environment with changing priorities

Comfortable working on an active busy production floor among batching and packaging equipment.  

Ability to manage time effectively

Maintain proper lab conditions and equipment maintenance  

Maintain proper record keeping and perform data entry

Be capable of working in various work settings of the facility including laboratory, office and plant areas

Perform basic math skills

Proficient computer skills, including above average knowledge of MS Excel

Understand and perform scaling/measuring in standard and metric formats

Food industry experience preferred.

Lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds

Being able to withstand extended periods of time on one's feet

Working and walking in a wet environment

Benefits and Compensation

Weekly pay with direct deposit

Health insurance

Various supplemental insurance policies available after 90-day introductory period

Life insurance available after completion of 90-day introductory period

K retirement plan available after one year of employment

Option to participate in uniform program

Annual bonus incentives

I.Rice is an equal opportunity employer and derives our staff skills through a diverse and talented workforce. This person will work closely with all departments and persons in our facility and must conduct themselves professionally at all times.