Laboratory Analyst

Description

Job Summary: Laboratory Analyst responsible for analytical, physical, and application testing, following Good Laboratory Practices and supporting R&D, Operations, and Quality. Key Highlights: 1. Performing laboratory analyses for R&D, Operations, and Quality. 2. Responsible for sample management and workload coordination. 3. Focused on continuous improvement and compliance with quality requirements. **Job Category:** ================= Quality **Job Family:** =============== Quality Laboratory Services **Job Description:** ==================== POSITION: LABORATORY ANALYST POSITION SUMMARY The Laboratory Analyst is a position within Schreiber Foods’ Analytical Laboratory, responsible for services supporting R&D, Operations, Quality & Food Safety, and customer-focused initiatives. This position will perform analytical, physical, and application testing. The role adheres to Good Laboratory Practices and all safety procedures. Responsible for applying and complying with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), working collaboratively with the team to achieve established goals, ensure product compliance with quality requirements, and drive continuous process improvement—contributing to waste reduction and time optimization. **DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES** Perform laboratory sample management activities, including receipt, preparation, storage, maintenance, and shipment of samples. Review laboratory analysis requests and coordinate workload with other laboratory partners, ensuring adherence to deadlines and plant requirements. Perform analytical, physical, and application testing in accordance with documented methods and procedures, with precision and accuracy. Conduct organoleptic evaluation of samples according to their Use-By Date (UBD). Collect microbiological swabs for line validation, PEM, and special events. Collect air samples for microbiological control and clean related equipment. Support laboratory data management activities by interpreting, reviewing, and ensuring data quality. Prepare reports and documentation as required, meeting deadlines and plant needs. Collect and analyze potable water and propylene glycol solution (cooling). Perform titration analysis to verify concentration of cleaning chemicals, as well as rinse water for chemical residue testing. Perform calibration verifications and preventive maintenance of laboratory equipment. Analyze incoming dairy raw materials. Monitor plant cleaning activities, assist in adherence to internal procedures, and conduct line release inspections. Verify the plant’s CCPs (Critical Control Points) and other monitoring activities as needed (e.g., pests, temperature, etc.). Provide training to new laboratory partners, interns, or temporary staff. Perform other duties as required (including: supporting laboratory investigations; general laboratory organization and cleaning; monitoring and maintaining consumables inventory; requesting replenishment when necessary; etc.). Maintain a high level of safety awareness, acting proactively and safely in compliance with the unit’s and laboratory’s health and safety policies and procedures. Interpret and communicate customer requirements to plant production and/or support teams. Daily Review incidents where procedures were not followed and determine appropriate corrective actions for personnel failing to comply with standard procedures. **FOOD SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES** In conjunction with the leadership team, ensures compliance with Food Safety and Quality Plans, as well as customer requirements. Interprets and communicates these requirements to production and/or support teams. Establishes and audits PCPs (Process Control Points), CCPs (Critical Control Points), and Standard Operating Procedures, ensuring processes are defined, monitored, and executed to meet customer requirements. Analyzes incidents arising from non-compliance with procedures and determines appropriate corrective actions for personnel failing to follow established standards. **EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:** Education: Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Food Engineering, Biomedicine, Pharmacy, Biological Sciences, or related fields. Experience: Prior experience in quality laboratory routines, preferably in food manufacturing or other regulated industrial environments. Hands-on experience conducting physicochemical and/or microbiological analyses, including sample collection, preparation, and release. Practical knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and laboratory organization and safety routines. Experience implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and maintaining associated technical records for laboratory analyses. Desirable experience with CCP monitoring, Quality Points (QP), and sampling plans. Familiarity with laboratory equipment calibration control routines and consumables management. Ability to operate in an operational environment focused on deadlines, data quality, and Food Safety requirements, interfacing with Production and Quality teams. Skills: Laboratory Knowledge * Interpretation and review of physicochemical and microbiological laboratory results. * Knowledge of analytical methods applicable to dairy products and processed cheeses. * Ability to assess analytical deviations, define corrective actions, and validate results. * Management of laboratory controls as required by Food Safety Programs and MAPA (Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture). Operational and Systems Skills * Proficiency in Windows, Excel, Word, and corporate quality systems. * Ability to review and maintain system records, forms, and SOPs. * Regulatory and confidential document updating and control. Skills and Availability * Ability to train personnel. * Capacity to work independently and collaboratively, with strong written and verbal communication skills. * High attention to detail and problem-solving ability. * Flexibility to work outside standard hours, including weekends, as required by plant needs. * Priority management, organization, decision-making, and sense of urgency. * Knowledge of Dairy Manufacturing is a plus. Schreiber Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.