Spawn Lab Technician

About the Role: The Spawn Lab Technician supports all laboratory operations related to spawn production, quality control, contamination monitoring, and microbiological testing. This role requires strong aseptic technique, accuracy, documentation discipline, and the ability to work independently while collaborating with the lab and spawn teams.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Adhere to all company policies, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Food Safety regulations.
• Cool master spawn physically, record accurately in Acumatica, and transport between facilities.
• Perform transfers and inoculations using aseptic technique, with accuracy and consistency.
• Prepare, pour, cool, and label media accurately while maintaining media inventory and updating Acumatica. 
• Perform microbiological contamination tests and report abnormal results.
• Assist with Spawn Screening by taking photos and ensuring all screening steps are followed. Report any abnormal growth or contamination.
• Conduct routine Master and Plate growth inspections and document observations.
• Complete Plate Scans/Measurements accurately and on schedule, ensuring all scans are clear, consistent, and correctly labeled.
• Perform daily environmental monitoring and enter results accurately; notify Manager if results fall outside acceptable ranges.
• Assist with test inspections, photo documentation, and recordkeeping as directed.
• Follow established steps to revive cultures from cryogenic storage and document all revival activity accurately.
• Accurately perform data entry ensuring all documentation is complete, clear, and recorded in the correct digital systems (Acumatica, Weever, Excel, etc.)
• Communicate and participate effectively in all scheduled Emails and Meetings.
• Assist with lab supply and inventory management, alert shortages.
• Maintain clean, organized, and sanitized lab space and maintain laboratory equipment to ensure optimal operation by following daily and weekly SOP procedures.
• Escalate concerns when needed to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Asking clarifying questions to prevent errors.
• Perform other duties as assigned Spawn Manager.

Qualifications: Experience/ Education

• High School Diploma or GED Required
• 2+ years of full-time work experience in a laboratory, quality control, or food manufacturing environment.
• An Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in a science-related field (e.g., Microbiology, Biology, Food Science) is strongly preferred. Relevant professional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of microbiological testing and aseptic techniques
• Basic knowledge of lab equipment operation and routine cleaning procedures.
• Knowledge of safety and sanitation regulations in food production.
• Proficient in record-keeping, accurate data entry, and basic computer skills.
• Ability to follow complex directions and proactively ask clarifying questions.
• Strong organizational skills, focus on detail, and thorough follow-through
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to follow complex directions and proactively ask clarifying questions.

Special Requirements

• Bilingual skills (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Focused work ethic.
• No allergies to soy, corn, or wheat.

Work Environment/Physical Demand

This role is primarily performed within a climate-controlled, sterile laboratory environment, requiring strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and aseptic techniques to prevent contamination. The position requires prolonged periods of standing during meticulous tasks like inoculations, transfers, and plating, alongside performing repetitive fine motor movements. Technicians must be able to move frequently between lab areas and occasionally between company facilities to transport materials, and must be capable of safely lifting, carrying, and moving up to 40 pounds. Due to the nature of the work, employees must tolerate wearing necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for extended period. This position is at-will employment. 90-day probationary period.