Part-Time Lab Assistant

The Part-time Lab Technician is responsible for accurate handling and documenting and testing of grains, meal, hulls, pellets, oils and biproducts along with process samples. This position requires working every other weekend (Saturday and Sunday from 6am-2pm) with additional hours available on weekdays to average 16-20 hours per week. The PT Lab Tech will be trained to work independently throughout their weekend shift. This is a year-round position that does not follow an academic calendar.

Primary Responsibilities

Safety

• Keep safety at the forefront through compliance, training, identifying potential hazards, reporting incidents, knowing emergency response procedures and actively participate in continuous improvement.
• Comply with SDSP’s Safe Quality Food (SQF) food safety program and polices.

People

• Develop collaborative relationships with all internal departments and supporting teams.
• Professionally interact and clearly communicate with internal and external customers.
• Communicate any problems that may occur and participate in problem solving.

Production

• Learn and use all lab equipment, chemicals, and day-to-day operations of the laboratory.
• Perform and complete all lab procedures as assigned in accordance with standard lab practices (AOCS methods/SOP’s), with demonstration of the procedure and standby assistance as needed.
• Demonstrate ability to understand and interpret lab results and reports which may include performing mathematical equations to arrive at accurate results.
• Accurately input data into software and generate reports; ability to use excel and learn new software.
• Report any changes in equipment performance or chemical interactions to the lab manager.
• Consistently and accurately perform work while multi-tasking and meeting deadlines for lab results.
• Use balances with accuracy and neatness when weighing out samples.
• Basic troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (laboratory experience is preferred)
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Basic math, computer and typing skills
• Must be dependable, self-motivated and able to work independently and with others. 
• Perform duties outside normal responsibilities to support the team and overall organizational goals.

Physical Requirements

Must Possess the Ability to Do the Following Frequently:

•  Bend, Squat, & Kneel
• Stand & Walk
• Push/Pull & Carry/Lift up to 50 lbs.
• Handle Objects
• Climb Ladders and Stairs
• Reach Above Shoulder Level

Must Possess the   Ability to Do the Following Occasionally:

• Crawl
• Sit
• Use Fine Finger Movements
• Carry/Lift Over 50 lbs.

Working Conditions

• Exposed to dust & chemicals
• Exposed to excessive noise