Lab Technician

Job Title: Laboratory Technician

Schedule: Sunday-Thursday / 11:00pm-7:30am

Job Description

The Laboratory Technician is responsible for conducting analytical testing of vegetable oils and related products to ensure compliance with quality, safety, and production standards. The technician will divide their time between working on the floor and in the lab, performing tasks such as swabbing equipment and conducting cleanings every other hour. This role supports plant operations by conducting timely testing of production, inbound, outbound, and process samples, while maintaining accurate documentation and communicating quality concerns to management. The Laboratory Technician collaborates closely with production, quality, and operations teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical testing of vegetable oils and related products according to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Prioritize and analyze samples from production, processing, inbound and outbound truck shipments, and railcar deliveries.
• Conduct sensory evaluations, including tasting samples for product quality and consistency.
• Perform packaging line quality assurance checks and inspections.
• Communicate test results and quality concerns to management when corrective actions are required.
• Complete laboratory testing records, reports, and documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
• Conduct finished product and incoming raw material testing to verify compliance with specifications.
• Perform laboratory cleaning activities and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) inspections.
• Maintain retention samples and ensure proper storage and organization.
• Learn and implement new testing methods, procedures, and quality protocols as required.
• Develop and maintain a thorough understanding of laboratory processes, equipment, and procedures.
• Attend required safety, compliance, and operational training sessions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and participate in onsite meetings to support departmental objectives.
• Assist other departments as needed to support plant operations.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability to follow SOPs, safety procedures, and GMP standards.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately document test results.
• Basic computer skills and proficiency with data entry.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to perform sensory evaluations, including tasting products.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associate"s or Bachelor"s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or a related scientific field.
• Previous laboratory, quality control, or food manufacturing experience.
• Experience performing analytical testing and interpreting laboratory results.
• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), HACCP, or food safety programs.
• Experience working in an edible oils, food processing, or manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of laboratory instruments and quality assurance procedures.
• Experience with sample management, retention programs, and laboratory documentation systems.
• Ability to identify trends, troubleshoot quality issues, and recommend corrective actions.

Work Environment

This role operates in a combined manufacturing and laboratory setting within a fast-paced production facility. The work environment involves managing multiple priorities and deadlines while supporting ongoing plant operations. The Laboratory Technician works around food-grade materials, production equipment, and laboratory chemicals consistent with standard testing procedures. The position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting, as well as the ability to taste products as part of sensory evaluations. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required and may include items such as lab coats, safety glasses, gloves, and other protective gear appropriate for both laboratory and manufacturing areas. The environment emphasizes safety, adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and participation in regular safety and compliance training.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Nashville, TN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $21.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Nashville, TN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 19, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Nashville,TN.

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 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

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 for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.