Work in Iowa Manufacturing Jobs

Job Title: QA Lab TechnicianJob Description

We are seeking a meticulous and dedicated QA Lab Technician to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for reviewing finished products for quality defects, performing DON testing (mycotoxin testing), conducting appearance checks on products, and preparing samples for additional testing. This role involves weekly scale calibration, environmental monitoring swabbing (EMP), running ELISA testing methodology, documenting results and lab notes in Excel, and participating in additional small projects as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Review finished products for quality defects.

• Perform all DON testing (mycotoxin testing).

• Conduct appearance checks on products.

• Prepare samples (grinding) for additional testing such as ash, protein, and moisture.

• Calibrate scales weekly.

• Perform environmental monitoring swabbing (EMP).

• Run ELISA testing methodology.

• Document results and lab notes in Excel.

• Work on additional small projects as assigned.

Essential Skills

• Experience in quality assurance and quality control.

• Knowledge of food science and food manufacturing.

• Background in microbiology, food chemistry, and chemistry.

• Proficiency in pipetting and aseptic techniques.

• Strong inspection and food safety skills.

• Ability to maintain lab documentation accurately.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Degree in Food Science, Culinary Food Science, Microbiology, Biology, or a related field.

• Previous industry experience in a quality or food science-related position preferred.

• Passion for food science and safety.

• Ability to lift 25 lbs regularly and up to 50 lbs occasionally.

• Must not be color blind or visually impaired.

• Comfortable working both in the lab and on the production floor.

• Safety-focused mindset and strong time management skills.

Work Environment

This position offers two openings with a flexible start time between 5 AM and 8 AM, and an 8-hour workday from Monday to Friday. The initial contract is for 3-6 months, with a potential extension to a 6-month contract-to-hire. Training is provided from Monday to Friday, 7 AM - 4 PM, lasting approximately 6-8 weeks. The role requires a balance of lab work and production floor activities, interacting with operators and production members on quality issues. The team culture is tight-knit, with a mix of outgoing and focused individuals. The dress code includes steel-toed or composite boots, work-appropriate jeans, and t-shirts without any loose embellishments. The facility offers a 30-minute lunch break and two 15-minute breaks. New graduates start at $18/hr, with a yearly merit increase averaging 2-3% and potential yearly bonuses based on plant metrics and individual performance.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I are embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent

• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection

• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes

• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com (%20actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com) for other accommodation options.