Laboratory & Research Assistant/ Research Associate
Working in a Production and R&D Environment, the Lab and Research Assistant role is a dynamic position encompassing manufacturing, operational, and research components. This involves research, and hands-on bench work. You will primarily conduct quality related routine analytics. Literature research and assist with research-related projects is part of the job. Works with supervisor to conduct food science- and chemistry-related research projects. Knowledge of HPLC and or GC analyses is important. Technical know-how in chemical processing is useful.
Reports To: QA/QC Director
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assist lab scientists and operators in vitamin manufacturing and lab analytics.
- Provide support to the lab scientists and other teams in project research, data collection, reporting, and presentations.
- Receive training and carry out lab tests to evaluate feed and in-process materials.
- Carry out GC analysis for production.
- Perform safe chemical handling.
- Follow cGMP and Safety Regulations.
- Maintain warehouse inventory as needed.
- Previous experience operating material handling equipment would be a plus.
- Conduct research on assigned R&D project, when applicable.
- Assist at any level of project execution ranging from planning, sample preparation to clean-up.
- Perform other light industrial, office, and lab-related duties as assigned.
Requirements:
- A degree in Chemistry, chemical engineering, Food Science, Nutrition, Biochemistry, Biology or Applied sciences a plus.
- 3 years of experience in one or more of the following: quality function related to food or dietary supplements, wet chemistry, and lab experience; will consider recent graduates. If you have had previous work experience in these areas.
- A positive attitude, open to feedback, good interpersonal skills, strong work ethic and vision for excellence are key for us.
- Ability to interact with co-workers in a positive, productive, and cooperative manner encouraging teamwork. Share your knowledge with the team.
- Ability to work with cross-functional teams.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively, show self-motivation and work in a varied-paced, deadline-driven environment with careful attention to detail and a results-oriented mindset.
- Comfortable working near moving mechanical parts and using heavy equipment.
- Comfortable in a typical lab and production environment that requires personal protective equipment when needed and required.
- Computer skills: Microsoft Office Suite; ability to learn new software.
- 40hrs/week; 5-day work week, on site at our Hadley MA location.
- Flexibility in work schedule may also be required for possible overtime, weekends and extended hours as required by operational need.
- Must be able to lift 50 lbs. and perform work at various heights (periodically/as needed).
- Receive training in various aspects as needed, including cGMP and safety protocols.
- Open to learning new things.