Laboratory Technician

Job Summary

Bell & Evans is seeking a Laboratory Technician to support the Quality Assurance department by performing microbiological, chemical, and organoleptic analyses on product and environmental samples. This position plays an important role in ensuring that safe, high-quality products are produced while supporting continuous improvement initiatives within the Bell & Evans Laboratory.

The Laboratory Technician will work in a fast-paced environment and collaborate closely with the Laboratory Supervisor, Quality Assurance team, and other department leaders.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform and interpret quantitative and qualitative microbiological analyses on product and environmental samples. Testing may include, but is not limited to, Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., Staphylococcus spp., Enterobacteriaceae, E. coli, aerobic-mesophilic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, and yeast and mold organisms.

• Perform and interpret quantitative and qualitative chemical analyses on product samples, including moisture, fat, protein, ash, free fatty acid, peroxide value, and pH.

• Provide laboratory testing support for new product development through shelf-life studies and scheduled sensory analyses.

• Assist with maintaining inventory of essential laboratory testing supplies.

• Prepare enrichment media and other reagents required for daily microbiological testing.

• Routinely monitor laboratory instruments and equipment to ensure proper functionality and calibration status.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment by following daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedules.

• Ensure the quality and integrity of test results by following Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs) and participating in scheduled proficiency testing programs.

• Coordinate with the Laboratory Supervisor and other department leaders as needed.

• Develop a working knowledge of the business and Quality Assurance operations to support projects, internal and external audits, and other departmental initiatives.

• Actively participate in company and department meetings.

• Communicate testing failures, errors, and other quality concerns to the appropriate departments in a timely manner.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related field .

• Proficiency in aseptic techniques and working knowledge of laboratory testing methodologies and equipment, including pipettors, incubators, CEM analytical devices, stomachers, pH meters, and similar laboratory equipment.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, as well as Microsoft Outlook.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with frequent changes and competing priorities.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with team members and other departments.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in laboratory testing and documentation.

Work Environment

This position requires the ability to work in a laboratory and food production environment while following all applicable safety, food safety, sanitation, and quality requirements.

If you are detail-oriented, science-minded, and interested in contributing to food safety and quality within a leading poultry operation, we encourage you to apply for the Laboratory Technician position.