An independent, family-owned business in Philadelphia, I. Rice & Co. has been making quality food products and flavors since 1884. With considerable growth and expansion, we are looking for qualified employees to help in a variety of positions. As a food manufacturing plant, I. Rice & Co. offers a diverse range of employment opportunities, from production coordination to warehouse stocking and inventory organization. With a passionate community, competitive pay, and generous bonus incentives, I. Rice offers ample opportunity for personal and professional growth.
QUALITY CONTROL SENIOR LAB TECHNICIAN
This permanent, full-time position supports the Quality Assurance department. The Senior Lab Technician plays a critical role in maintaining and enhancing our commitment to food safety and quality. This hands-on position combines technical expertise with leadership, performing daily functions in the lab, while also supporting the Director of Quality Assurance with administering department operations, validating program CCPs, and participating in audits. Knowledge of laboratory principles is required. Product testing includes brix, pH, water activity, titrations, viscosities and organoleptic evaluations. Environment is a clean and modern lab working with terrific people.
Essential Job and Duties
- Perform analytical tests on raw materials and finished products
- Maintain extensive record keeping
- Assist with auditing and maintaining SQF, GMP, & HACCP programs at the plant
- Calibrate laboratory equipment
- Participate in company audits
- Work with production to make adjustments to batches in order to adhere to product specifications
- Run batch freezer to make finished product for further study and sensory evaluation
- Measure and verify raw materials needed for batching
- Respond to customer questions or concerns in a professional and appropriate manner
- Inspection of inbound receipts
- Maintain the finished goods retention library
- Sample finished product for microbial analysis
- Maintain raw material specification documentation and product specification documentation
- Maintain finished product specification documentation
This position is supported by a team of technicians performing similar tasks. Our products, equipment, and methods are continually evolving. The duties associated with this position will change and evolve as needed. This individual is required to be willing and able to take on new responsibilities as needed.
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, R&D, or related course of study preferred5 years of related quality assurance or lab experienceExperience with FDA, USDA, GFSI, SQF, FSMA, GMP, GLP, HACCP preferredSkills and Expectations
Ability to prioritize and organize ones work loadAbility to work in a team environment as well as individually in an environment with changing prioritiesComfortable working on an active busy production floor among batching and packaging equipment.Ability to manage time effectivelyMaintain proper lab conditions and equipment maintenanceMaintain proper record keeping and perform data entryBe capable of working in various work settings of the facility including laboratory, office and plant areasPerform basic math skillsProficient computer skills, including above average knowledge of MS ExcelUnderstand and perform scaling / measuring in standard and metric formatsFood industry experience preferred.Lifting and carrying up to 50 poundsBeing able to withstand extended periods of time on one’s feetWorking and walking in a wet environmentBenefits
Benefits and Compensation
Weekly pay with direct depositHealth insuranceVarious supplemental insurance policies available after 90-day introductory periodLife insurance available after completion of 90-day introductory period401-K retirement plan available after one year of employmentOption to participate in uniform programAnnual bonus incentivesI.Rice is an equal opportunity employer and derives our staff skills through a diverse and talented workforce. This person will work closely with all departments and persons in our facility and must conduct themselves professionally at all times.