Micro Lab Technician at Ya YA Foods in Ogden, UT

MICRO LAB TECHNICIAN Location: Ogden, UT, US     Why Join Us?  At Ya YA Foods, our culture is rooted in inclusivity and collaboration. We believe in fostering a supportive environment where every voice is valued, and every team member contributes to our shared success. Join us and experience not only the excitement of cutting-edge technology and innovation but also a workplace where you are celebrated for your unique perspective and contributions. Your journey with us starts here, where opportunities for growth and fulfillment await.  • Day One Benefits: Enjoy comprehensive benefits from day one, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, ensuring your well-being from the start. • Competitive Wages: We offer competitive compensation packages that reflect our commitment to valuing your skills and experience. • Inclusive Company Culture: Embrace a culture of inclusivity and collaboration, where every voice is heard and respected. • Opportunities for Growth: Join a team that values your potential and offers abundant opportunities for professional development and career advancement. • Cutting-edge Technology: Work with the latest technology and innovation in beverage manufacturing, contributing to our industry-leading products. Reports to: Quality Manager   Responsibilities: • Performs aseptic sampling and microbiological analyses of packaging materials, raw materials, and finished products according to standard methods to determine conformance to specifications. • Conducts pH testing of final products as part of commercial sterility testing • Conducts plant environmental swabbing, air monitoring, and water sampling based on pre-determined frequency and standard procedures • Participates in the laboratory’s internal and external proficiency testing. • Maintains cleanliness and orderliness of the lab following the 5S principles. • Monitors performance of the laboratory equipment by following an established in-house calibration schedule to ensure compliance to testing standards. • Prepares materials and culture media needed for microbial testing including growth promotion testing. • Assists in supply inventory and management. Advises the team leaders of low-stock inventory of supplies/materials. • Prepares samples and the corresponding documents when external testing is required. • Records results in a timely manner and ensures completeness of reports /document following good documentation practices. • Communicates with all QC technicians, QA/QC supervisors regarding any issues that could affect product quality. • Participates in lab investigation for any non-conformances or out-of-specifications.  • Compliance with all rules & policies regarding health safety, occupational safety, environmental safety, food safety, legal regulations, company requirements etc. • Compliance with the Company's Integrated Management Systems which includes, but is not limited to Production, Quality, Food Safety & GMP. • Other duties as assigned. Required Skills/Abilities: • Strong skills in written communications, oral communications, analytical skills, organizational skills, and balanced decision-making skills required to manage projects  • Strong leadership skills and prior experience with managing large teams is required • Regularly time and attendance    Education and Experience: • 3+ years of experience in food manufacturing within a GMP environment is required. • Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, or a similar scientific discipline.  • Knowledge of food safety-related legislation, standards, and regulations by obtaining food safety certifications is required • Experience in managing Microbiology Laboratory is preferred.  • HACCP-certified or FSMA – PCQI Trained Preferred Physical Requirements: • Must be 18 years or older. • Ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force at times and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects • Ability to work in cold and hot environments (approximately 38F-80F degrees)  • Ability to repeat motions that may include use of the wrists, hands and/or fingers, and standing or sitting for prolonged periods (average 8-12 hours)