Sample Lab Technician

Department: Sales
FLSA Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Shift/Schedule: Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Location: Otay Mesa, CA

Overview

Jensen Meat Company is seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Sample Lab Technician to support Sales, Product Development, Operations, and customer initiatives through the preparation, coordination, and distribution of product samples across the Beef, Plant-Based, and Fresh divisions.

This role serves as a critical liaison between departments to ensure samples are accurately prepared, documented, cooked, packaged, and delivered according to customer specifications and business timelines. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong organizational and communication skills, and is comfortable supporting customer evaluations, product demonstrations, trade shows, and cross-functional business initiatives.

Primary Responsibilities

Sample Processing & Preparation

• Receive, review, prioritize, and process internal and external sample requests.
• Coordinate sample requests across Beef, Plant-Based, and Fresh product categories.
• Enter and manage sample orders in PLEX, Microsoft Access, and other company systems.
• Verify product specifications, quantities, packaging requirements, and delivery timelines.
• Create, review, and apply all required labels, documentation, and shipping materials.
• Prepare and cook product samples according to established procedures and customer specifications.
• Package and organize samples for shipment, customer pickup, internal evaluations, and presentations.
• Coordinate with Production, Operations, Product Development, and other departments to ensure timely sample availability.
• Schedule and support cook-and-look evaluations, product demonstrations, and customer tastings.
• Monitor sample inventory levels and communicate replenishment needs.
• Enforce sample request lead times and communicate expectations to internal stakeholders and customers.
• Maintain organized records of sample requests, shipments, and related documentation.

Customer Support & Project Coordination

• Serve as the primary point of contact regarding sample requests and scheduling.
• Communicate sample status updates, timelines, and priorities to Sales, Management, and internal departments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support customer evaluations, product launches, and business initiatives.
• Assist in resolving issues related to sample preparation, scheduling, or delivery.
• Support customer visits, product demonstrations, and special projects as needed.

Trade Shows, Events & Product Demonstrations

• Support the preparation, cooking, presentation, and transportation of products for trade shows, conferences, customer meetings, and company-sponsored events.
• Assist with event setup, logistics, and product presentation activities.
• Coordinate with Sales and Product Development teams to ensure products are prepared and presented according to specifications.
• Support marketing and customer engagement initiatives through sample preparation and event participation.

Cross-Training & Administrative Support

• Participate in cross-training initiatives to develop knowledge of related operational and administrative functions.
• Provide backup support during employee absences or periods of increased workload.
• Serve as a backup for order processing activities, including order entry, verification, and coordination with internal departments.
• Assist with order tracking and fulfillment support as needed.
• Serve as a backup for invoicing functions, ensuring accurate and timely processing of customer invoices and supporting documentation.
• Assist with data entry, record maintenance, reporting, and general administrative tasks.
• Support departmental projects and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support business operations.

Food Safety & Compliance

• Follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety requirements, and company sanitation procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary sample preparation and storage area.
• Ensure proper product handling, storage, temperature control, and traceability throughout the sample preparation process.
• Adhere to all workplace safety policies and procedures when handling food products, equipment, and chemicals.
• Assist with audits, inspections, and documentation related to sample activities as needed.

 Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree in Business, Food Science, Culinary Arts, Logistics, or a related      field preferred.
• One to three years of experience in sample coordination, food production support,      customer service, administrative support, or a related role preferred.
• Experience working in a food manufacturing environment is preferred.
• Experience supporting customer presentations, product demonstrations, or trade shows      is a plus.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to  manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Excellent  verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Outlook, and Word.
• Experience with  ERP systems such as PLEX and Microsoft Access preferred.
• Ability to follow written instructions and standardized procedures.
• Strong customer service mindset with a collaborative approach.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility to support special events, customer visits, and trade shows when needed.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout office, kitchen, laboratory, and production environments.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to safely handle food products and operate cooking equipment.
• Ability to work in refrigerated and food production environments when required.
• Ability to  travel locally to support company events, trade shows, and customer presentations as needed.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and perform repetitive motions throughout the workday.