Laboratory technician

The Laboratory Technician carries out analytical tests to assess the quality, grade or other characteristics of incoming, produced or researched products and goods, in accordance with quality system guidelines or test protocols, in order to ensure that the products and goods comply with the set quality standards and / or research test results can be properly assessed. In R&D, the Laboratory Technician not only carries out more regular laboratory activities, but is also involved with setting-up, conducting and reporting of specific R&D tests and analysis and assists in designing and developing new (in vitro) assays in close collaboration with project teams, in order to support the development of new or improved products.
Within an OpCo Laboratory, the focus of the Laboratory Technician role is on first-line technical and analytical support. In the Laboratory he / she performs tests on samples of incoming raw materials, of produced goods in various stages of the production process and samples of end products. Also, various analysis can be conducted at the request of customers.
Within a R&D laboratory (Aquaculture Research Centre –ARC–, Animal Nutrition R&D or Masterlab), the focus of the Laboratory Technician is not only on first-line technical and analytical support, but also on supporting the research & development activities, in collaboration with researchers and project teams. More senior Laboratory Technician roles in R&D may will also supervise R&D laboratory activities, and train, supervise and manage Laboratory Assistants, Technicians and Laboratory Technicians operating in the R&D laboratory (including Masterlab personnel and students).

Job Description:

Quality control and testing:

o Performs quality control and in-process tests of incoming and produced goods, in line with guidelines and product quality standards, to ensure that the products meet with (the customer) agreed quality and to ensure process continuity. Performs analytical tests within research projects, in order to properly assess research test results and conclusions can be drawn.

o In production, this includes performing standard as well as specific checks and analysis, identifying and substantiating deviations and reporting these. In consultation with the supervisor disapprove of small and medium batches; tune with the supervisor before larger batches are disapproved or to search for alternatives. 

o Monitors quality trends, and timely identifies and communicates quality defects, non-conformities and trends to the supervisor, in order to enable preventive measures be taken. 

R&D studies:

o Works closely with researchers to develop lab experimental design and test plans

o Conducts lab experiments according to the test plan, collates and reports the test results

o Performs in vitro molecular biological, biochemical, microbiological and cell culture assays 

o Develops and validate novel assays together with researchers 

Reporting:

o Records data, observations, and conclusions of samples and test results accurately and timely in the relevant quality or reporting systems, in order to provide insight and access to the test results and measurements at all times 

Quality Assurance:

o Periodically checks and calibrates the analytical instruments, based on vendor guidelines and taking into account internal and external regulations, in order to guarantee the validity of measurements and tests.

o Proposes efficiency and quality improvements

o Assures that all tests and measurements are performed in compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) at the laboratory and with the relevant standards such as ISO9001 and ISO17025, contributes to the design and further improvement of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Maintenance:

o Responsible for the tools and instruments used.

o Performs first line maintenance activities on the analytical tools and instruments, in order to prevent disruptions in the testing processes and to ensure continuous quality and reliability of test results. This includes performing of minor maintenance as agreed with the technical department, requesting for assistance in case of standstill / disruption of the analysis process by malfunction of the equipment and cooperating / considering the planning of preventive maintenance, the repair of faults and the application of modifications.

Supervision and Training:

o May train and supervise interns and apprentices, hired laboratory personnel and more junior Laboratory Technicians

Our organisation:

Skretting is a global leader in providing innovative and sustainable nutritional solutions and services for the aquaculture industry. Skretting has production facilities in 18 countries on five continents to manufacture and deliver high quality feeds from hatching to harvest for more than 60 species. The total annual production volume of feed is close to 2.5 million tonnes. Our mission is Feeding the Future.

Equal Opportunity Employer: 

Skretting is an equal opportunity employer; applicants are considered for all roles without regard to race, color, religious creed, sex, national origin, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital, parental, military status or any other status protected by applicable local law. Please advise us at any point during the recruitment and selection process if you require accommodation. Skretting is committed to compliance with all applicable legislation, including providing accommodation for applicants with disabilities.