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Berner Food & Beverage, LLC

Quality Micro Lab Lead

Berner Food & Beverage, LLC, Dakota, Illinois, United States, 61018

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Job Description

Job Description Description:

Position Overview:

The Quality Micro Lab Lead is responsible for the oversight and coordination of all microbiological testing and data management activities within the Micro-Analytical Laboratory (MAL) at Berner Food & Beverage. This role ensures that laboratory operations, sample management, and data integrity meet industry standards and company expectations. The Quality Micro Lab Lead plays a critical role in supervising sample flow, validating laboratory results, and leading a team of technicians to maintain high standards of accuracy and compliance.

Key Duties and Responsibilities: Oversee the reception, review, labeling, and tracking of samples and Sample Analysis Request Forms (SARFs) through all stages of laboratory testing and handling. Assign testing and daily laboratory tasks to micro technicians, providing direction and guidance to ensure effective workflow and accurate results. Log, maintain, and audit data and documentation related to laboratory samples, SARFs, and test outcomes, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with regulatory standards. Resolve discrepancies related to samples or SARFs, including missing information or erroneous entries, by coordinating with relevant departments. Ensure Micro-lab is prepared for all audits (customer specific, SQF, FDA, Kosher, HACCP, etc.) and all functions performed by the quality micro lab are meeting customer specifications. Assists Technical Services Manager in all audits and gathering of necessary documents requested. Review and validate microbiological test data to ensure conformance to established control limits and internal quality standards. Ensures all Micro-lab technicians follow their protocol for the micro lab, job duties, and are on track with all micro-lab analyses. Prepares, manages, and documents outgoing samples and SARFs for third-party laboratory testing or customer requirements, guaranteeing timely and tracked transfer. Obtain, review, and process third-party laboratory results, integrating findings into internal records and communicating outcomes to relevant stakeholders. Issue detailed and accurate test reports, maintaining clear record-keeping for audits and regulatory review. Promptly address and resolve any identified issues in test data, processes, or documentation, notifying all necessary parties to ensure swift resolution. Work closely with the Quality Department, production teams, internal and external laboratories, and warehouse personnel to ensure effective communication and a smooth operational flow. The Quality Micro Lab Lead reports directly to the Quality Technical Services Manager and will assist that Manager with all requests needed. Works collaboratively across the Quality, Production, Warehousing, and Maintenance departments and regularly interfaces with other departments to support company-wide quality assurance initiatives. Essential Skills and Qualifications Strong knowledge of microbiological testing in food and beverage manufacturing. Proven ability to supervise laboratory technicians and assign work effectively. Excellent organizational skills for data management, document control, and sample tracking. Detail-oriented with strong analytical skills for reviewing laboratory results. Ability to quickly identify and resolve operational discrepancies. Solid communication skills for cross-departmental coordination and reporting. Familiarity with regulatory requirements and best practices within the food and beverage industry. Pay Range: $23.00-28.00 (based on experience). Full benefits offered including: Medical, Dental, Vision, and 401k plan.

Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice to suit business needs. Requirements: