Job Description

Work Location: On-Site in Santa Ana, CA

Job Summary:

The Lab Manager is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and organization of both the physical lab and digital inventory. They also lead training for new and current employees on lab organization. They report to the Product Development Manager and collaborate closely with Food Scientists and Technicians to ensure lab accountability and an efficient sampling process.

Responsibilities:

• Coordinate daily activities in the internal lab, including chemical, microbiological, and sensory analyses
• Manage and train the laboratory team
• Plan and oversee testing on raw materials, semi-finished, and finished products
• Ensure consistent stock of raw ingredients and organization of finished good retained digitally and physically
• Assist R&D to test new formulations and improve existing products
• Assist R&D with sensory analysis of raw and finished goods
• Monitor equipment performance and ensure regular calibration
• Handle technical documentation and lab reports
• Develop a sampling form and process for internal and external teams
• Develop SOPs for the office team to adhere to

Qualifications:

• Degree in Food Science and Technology, Chemistry, Biology, or similar fields
• At least 3 years of experience in a similar role, preferably in the food sector
• At least 1 year of management of a lab or people experience
• Team management, task planning and inventory management skills

• Strong proficiency in Excel and lab data management software
• Attention to detail, strong sense of responsibility, ability to work independently
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup environment
• Drivers license and reliable transportation
• Proficient in Microsoft and Google tools (Word, Excel, Sheets etc)
• Adequate sensory skills to differentiate products by taste and smell
• No food aversions, allergies, caffeine or melatonin sensitivities due to physical ingestion of products
• Ability to troubleshoot independently
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup environment

Physical Demands

• Requires extended periods of sitting and standing to perform work
• Be able to lift and transport material up to 45 lbs

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