Job Description

Company Description

At Oterra, we are committed to creating high-quality, natural color solutions that help make food and beverages more appealing to consumers around the world. Our team is passionate about quality, innovation, sustainability, and delivering products that meet the highest standards for our customers.

Quality is at the heart of everything we do. Our Quality team plays an essential role in ensuring that Oterra products consistently meet customer specifications, regulatory requirements, and company quality standards.

Job Description

General Summary

The QC Lab Technician I works under general supervision and is responsible for monitoring and testing the production process to ensure customer product specifications and Oterra quality standards are consistently met.

This position performs laboratory testing on raw materials, work-in-process, and finished products; monitors production and environmental conditions; maintains laboratory equipment and documentation; and works closely with Production and other departments to identify and resolve quality issues.

This is a second shift position and requires flexibility to support production needs, including occasional weekend work.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Monitor the production process and accurately test and interpret raw materials and work-in-process materials to ensure compliance with customer specifications and company quality standards.
• Promptly communicate test results and required production adjustments to the appropriate Production personnel.
• Analyze finished products using all required testing methods to determine product approval and release.
• Perform various in-process laboratory tests to support production and quality requirements.
• Follow proper aseptic sampling procedures for microbiological samples.
• Test the production environment to ensure appropriate sterile conditions are maintained.
• Calibrate laboratory instruments and equipment according to established standards.
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness and organization in accordance with GMP and GLP requirements.
• Accurately complete and maintain required laboratory records, paperwork, and documentation.
• Work collaboratively with Production and other departments to identify and resolve production or laboratory issues.
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to testing methods, processes, and specifications.
• Navigate DocBox and develop proficiency in SAP for laboratory results entry and product release.
• Maintain a clean and adequate supply of glassware for required testing.
• Monitor laboratory supply inventory and communicate replenishment needs to the appropriate person.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific field or relevant laboratory experience.
• Previous laboratory experience is preferred.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Ability to read and comprehend standard operating procedures, equipment manuals, blend formulas, and other technical documents.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to effectively respond to questions from colleagues, other departments, and occasionally auditors.
• Ability to interpret laboratory testing results and follow SOPs to determine appropriate actions.
• Ability to operate a variety of laboratory equipment, instruments, and office equipment.
• Working knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and ISO compliance requirements.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs, including Word and Excel; experience with database systems is beneficial.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations involving rates, ratios, percentages, volumes, and metric equivalents.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a team.
• Willingness and ability to work second shift and occasional weekends as required by production needs.

Working Conditions

The working environment is generally favorable, with adequate lighting, temperature, and noise levels. The position may involve occasional exposure to cold temperatures and production-related conditions.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required at all times and includes:

• Lab coat
• Hair/beard net
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Dust mask when working with powdered media substances

The position is primarily based in a laboratory and production environment and may require occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts, fumes, or airborne particles.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, talk, and hear. The employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or touch objects, tools, equipment, or controls.

The position requires the ability to lift and/or move materials or equipment weighing up to 25 pounds.

Specific vision requirements include:

• Ability to see clearly and distinguish colors
• Depth perception
• Ability to adjust focus

Additional Information

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for a detail-oriented and dependable individual who takes pride in producing accurate laboratory results and supporting a strong culture of quality. The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment, follows procedures carefully, communicates effectively, and is willing to work collaboratively with others.

If you are looking to build your laboratory and quality career while making an impact at Oterra, we encourage you to apply!

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.