Location: Agawam,MA, USA
Are you a self-driven person looking to advance your career as a high-impact player on a team? If so, we have an exciting challenge for you and your future!
At HP Hood LLC, we celebrate our differences. Our diversity of people, backgrounds, experiences, thoughts and perspectives are fostered to create an inclusive work environment. We are at our best when we respect and value each other - One Team One Company!
Our culture is built on value commitments to innovation, quality, results, integrity, community, people, and collaboration that fosters a strong employee engagement, teamwork, safety and wellness. We offer a competitive benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, wellness programs, employee discounts, 401k matches, tuition reimbursement, ongoing development, advancement opportunities and more. This position is also eligible for our bonus program.
Founded in 1846, today HP Hood is one of the largest and most trusted food and beverage manufacturers in the United States. Our portfolio of national and super-regional brands and licensed products includes Hood, Heluva Good, Lactaid, Blue Diamond Almond Breeze, Planet Oat and more.
This position starts at $26.79 per hour.
Job Summary:
The Lab Technician is a member of the Quality Assurance team for the Agawam facility and is responsible for performing routine bacteriological and chemical testing of dairy products. Partners closely with other departments to provide and promote a food safety culture, as well as ensuring that regulatory standards are met.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
* Follow all SOPs and detailed instructions
* Obtain samples for testing from tanks, vats and other vessels within manufacturing facility
* Testing of all raw and finished products
* Maintain lab MSS
* Operate and maintain lab equipment
* Utilize and become proficient in various lab computer applications and programs
* Observe and accurately record data and detailed records
* Obtain State lab certification
* Complete all work before shift completion
* Perform verification of auxiliary lab equipment such as weight checkers, vision systems and metal detectors as it pertains to Food Safety and Quality
* Conduct sensory and evaluation samples
* Assist in vacation relief coverage
* Ability to work effectively as part of a team and individually by displaying a positive attitude
* Other duties as assigned
Safety Responsibilities:
* Work in a safe and responsible manner at all times, following all safety policies, procedures, and rules;
* Participate in department safety initiatives;
* Report unsafe observations or conditions to a supervisor or manager;
* Immediately report an injury or accident to a supervisor or manager;
* Meet all company requirements for training, including but not limited to Lab Safety, LO/TO, PPE, ergonomics, etc.
Education and Experience:
* Bachelors Degree or Associates Degree in Food Science preferred. At least 2 years lab experience.
* Excellent math and computer skills, specifically MS Excel, Office & Outlook.
* Strong communication skills, detail orientated, solid decision making, ability to work independently with little supervision.
Physical Requirements:
* Standing: Long periods of time (minimum 6 hours)
* Sitting: Occasionally for short periods
* Walking: Occasionally for short periods
* Bending: Occasionally for short periods
* Twisting of spine: Occasionally for short periods
* Lifting: Light (< 30 lbs frequently)
* Carrying: Light (30-50 lbs) frequently, distance 100 feet
* Pushing/Pulling: < 75 lbs without assistance infrequently
Special Requirements:
* Able to work Holidays and weekends as needed by facility.
* Champion positive and safe work environment.
* Advocate for Food Safety and Quality Culture
''It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.''