Jennifer Griffiths Recruitment are seeking a quality technician for our client in the Port Talbot area. This pivotal role offers a unique opportunity to apply advanced laboratory skills and scientific knowledge in a quality control (QC) environment, with a focus on our diverse range of forage and feed additives. The role is hands-on within the QC laboratory, encompassing method development and execution of product analysis to uphold product integrity and meet QC standards. You will be responsible for managing the QC laboratory, ensuring compliance with laboratory standards and the accuracy and efficiency of all product analyses. The role requires in-depth knowledge of scientific methodologies such as enumeration and identification of bacteria and yeast, titration and PCR methods.
The main purpose of the role
To ensure that all products analysed in the laboratory comply with safety, quality, and legal requirements. The role involves proactive product investigations to identify specific microbial strains and contaminants and supporting the operations team in monitoring fermentation processes during the production of lactic acid bacteria. Using an in-depth technical knowledge of the mode of action of additives to make informed decisions on the impact of QC failure via the non-conforming products process. Determination of root cause of any QC failure and implement appropriate corrective action.
Principle Accountabilities
- Product Quality and Compliance
- Quality Assurance and Compliance.
- Execute proactive QC analysis to ensure raw materials and finished products meet specified standards and facilitate the timely positive release of products to fulfil orders.
- Maintain and update scientific knowledge and laboratory skills to incorporate new technologies and methodologies.
- Team leadership:
- Provide line management and development for the QC team.
- Foster a high-performing team through mentoring, training, and continuous development.
- Method Development and Implementation:
- Proactively monitor current methodologies against recognised international standards and amend as appropriate to ensure compliance.
- Drive method development and implementation to support the supply of high-quality products.
- Ensure the laboratory operates efficiently and accurately, adhering to rigorous scientific standards.
- Laboratory Quality Management:
- Ensure the Laboratory Quality Management System Manual is up-to-date and effectively supports all QC activities.
Principle Responsibilities
- Oversee QC testing to ensure all materials and products manufactured at our site and our third-party manufacturing partners meet safety and quality requirements according to agreed specifications.
- Manage the QC department, including cost and budget control.
- Manage the control plans on IFS for high-risk materials.
- Provide accurate and timely CoA’s for all finished products tested.
- Manage the non-conforming products identified through QC protocols, including investigation, disposition, and availability control management in the IFS system.
- Using technical knowledge to carry out the product complaint investigation process to determine root causes and implement corrective actions.
- Identify and implement new laboratory methodologies from scientific literature to meet evolving business needs.
- Apply continuous improvement techniques to enhance QC efficiency and accuracy, addressing any issues using problem-solving tools.
- Utilise standard cultivation-based methods for the enumeration and identification of microbial populations.
- Conduct substrate-specific enzyme activity assays using colorimetric or titration techniques.
- Employ PCR-based methods for the identification and typing sequences.
- Ensure effective data collection, storage, and monitoring to identify process improvements.
- Monitor fermentation contamination levels and in collaboration with the operations team make any necessary adjustments to ensure the product remains within specified limits.
- Analyse stability data of the product and flag any trends or issues to the Quality Technical Manager for investigation.
- Provide training to laboratory staff and maintain laboratory documentation in compliance with scientific and regulatory standards.
- Prepare and follow Procedures and associated Work Instructions for all laboratory functions.
- In collaboration with the HSE Lead ensure risk and COSHH assessments are carried out for all tasks within the laboratory.
- Prepare detailed reports and presentations as required.
- Promote a culture of health and safety, implementing best practices across the team.
- Conduct regular check-ins with direct reports, providing constructive feedback and development opportunities.
- Offer support and guidance to the quality control function within the company.
Qualifications/Experience;
Essential:
- Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or a related field.
- Capability to implement new testing methodologies from scientific literature.
- Practical experience in the cultivation and enumeration of microbial cultures using aseptic techniques.
- Proficiency in PCR-based identification and typing sequences
- Competence in data gathering and analysis using Microsoft Excel.
- Demonstrable management experience, with the ability to develop high-performing teams.
Desirable:
- PHD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
- Experience working with microbiology
- Hands-on experience in QC laboratory analysis.
Person Specification;
Organizational Skills: Exceptional ability to prioritise a busy workload, meet deadlines, and maintain composure under pressure.
Proactive Leadership: Effective combination of leadership and technical skills.
Clear Communication: Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills for effective communication.
Technical Proficiency: High degree of computer literacy, coupled with strong literacy and numeracy skills.
Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to work independently and as part of a team, building robust relationships through collaboration.
Professionalism: Commands respect and professionalism, demonstrating integrity and alignment with company values.
Adaptability: Flexible approach to changing job demands, with the ability to adjust strategies and methodologies as required.
Salary
£37,500-£39,500
Hours
Monday to Friday
40 hours per week
To apply for this job email your details to benji.crooks@jgr.co.uk