Overview:

Responsible to perform analytical and qualitative testing in a commercial service laboratory. Prepares incoming samples and extracts DNA or RNA from food, feed, and commodity samples for PCR evaluation of GMOs, allergens, animal, vegetal, microbial and virological species presence. Optically evaluates nucleic acids. Prepares and handles DNA, RNA, enzymatic reagents. Performs end-point and real-time Quantitative PCR for both qualitative and quantitative analysis of targets. Analyzes data and maintains record of final results for release. Responsible for accurate and true reporting of results and adherence to QMS practices to support ISO 17025 accreditation. Support of laboratory operations, training and safety.

Job Duties:

1. Daily Production Responsibilities:
   • Sample homogenization and storage;
   • Extract nucleic acids;
   • Determine and record yields in LIMS (electronic recordkeeping system);
   • Order and receive kits, reagents, consumable lab supplies;
   • Perform real-time or endpoint qPCR and analyze results;
   • Record results in LIMS; review results of controls for quality compliance;
   • Review data generated and execute independent scientific judgment based on generated data.
2. Laboratory Sanitation:
   • Maintain a critically clean laboratory environment, as appropriate to a molecular analysis laboratory.
   • Perform regular daily and weekly disinfection and surface-sanitation activities, as described by SOP.
   • Use expertise in recognizing circumstances demanding, and perform “aseptic technique” as judged to be situationally required.
   • Perform needed support duties, such as cleaning equipment, workbenches, containment hoods, and handheld tools.
3. Ensure Quality Practices:
   • Perform all assigned quality duties according to SOPs and Quality Management System.
   • Correctly use balances and handheld timing, temperature, and pipetting devices to ensure accuracy and precision of measurement.
   • Perform scheduled calibration and verification activities and record findings.
   • Perform environmental sampling and analyses on a defined, regular schedule, to monitor the sanitation of the workplace;
   • Perform laboratory control measures as defined by SOPs to ensure veracity of results.
   • Participate in regular Proficiency Test groups, and attend required quality meetings and teleconferences.
4. Operational Activities:
   • Advise manager of analytical failures;
   • Participate in laboratory meetings and teleconferences;
   • Advise manager of failures of equipment, method, facility or safety;
   • Requisition supplies, disposables, kits, and reagents needed for operations;
   • Participate in process improvement activities;
   • Balance operational vs. administrative tasks;
   • Assume supervisory duties in absence of supervisor.
5. Administrative:
   • Undertake all assigned administrative CBT (computer-based training) modules in a timely fashion, including required site lab meetings, presentations, and health-and-safety or legal presentations;
   • Maintain expertise in the field of food science by attending relevant seminars and using available reading material.
6. Other Job Functions:
   • Follow proper guidelines for chemical and biological safety; 
   • Keep a safe workplace by staying alert for and mitigating hazards and ergonomic risks.
   • Protect the work and outside environment by preventing release of hazardous materials or improper disposal of chemical, trash or food waste.
   • Participate as requested by leadership in any safety-related drills, exercises, or training.
   • Maintain and support ISO 17025 accreditation by adhering to QMS practices.
   • Has the responsibility and authority to identify departures from the quality management system or test procedures and document such observations in accordance with the prescribed non-conforming system and notifies the supervisor.
   • Undertakes and maintains applicable training on-time, and records training to document competence for tests and procedures being performed or other administrative, compliance, or employment tasks.

Knowledge Requirements:

1. The position requires a knowledge of molecular biology, microbiology and biochemistry,as might be obtained from a AS/AA degree or 3 years’ ascending experience in a similar discipline. A basic knowledge of agricultural and food science is helpful, and direct experience in quantitative PCR and competence in algebra is required to analyze and interpret results. Further experience in DNA sequencing or molecular diagnostics will be helpful.
2. A broad knowledge of laboratory safety procedures is necessary to ensure a safe working environment.
3. Essential Competencies: Attention to detail; Coaching and developing others; Continuous learning mindset; Internal communication; Planning and organizing; Quality orientation; Time management, Good understanding of molecular biology & genetic methods; Basic understanding of biochemistry & food or agricultural science techniques; Broad laboratory skills; Problem-solving; On-time delivery focus.

Required Skills:

1. Mathematical Skills: Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations;
2. Technical Communication Skills: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports and business correspondence. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers;
3. Computer Skills: Google Suite (Gmail, Sheets, Calendar, Meeting, Docs, Drive). Microsoft [Excel (Intermediate), Windows 7 and Windows 10, Windows Word Pad, Explorer]. Standard qPCR Software.
4. Instrumentation and Equipment Skills: Retsch Mill, Cryo-Grinder, Analytical Balance, Tissue Disruptor, Micropipetter, Microcentrifuge, Fluorometer, Biological Containment Hood, Real-Time PCR Instrument.

Work Environment:

The role is performed in a laboratory setting with proper lighting and temperature control.  Occasional exposure to laboratory fumes, chemicals and materials will occur when in the laboratory.  Increased temperatures exist when working around dishwashers and autoclaves.  Safety equipment includes eye protection, laboratory coat and insulated gloves for autoclave or cryogenic use.  The role requires lifting 10-20 pounds of sample on a daily basis.  The role requires extended time spent in a standing position.  Regularly stands, uses hands, requires close vision at 20 inches or less.  Occasionally walks, sits, talks, hears, works in an environment with fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals.  Frequently reaches with hands and arms.  Environment has moderate noise (equivalent to a business office).  No travel required.

Application

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