Lab Technician
(Wine Jobs:
Management & Administration)
Contract
Acadia University, Wolfville,
Nova Scotia
The Acadia Laboratory for Agri-food & Beverage (ALAB) is an analytical lab that provides state-of-the-art services to the wine, craft beverage and food industries in Atlantic Canada.
Responsibilities and Duties:
· Lead the daily operation of ALAB
· Perform precise chemical and microbiological analyses.
· Ensure accurate operations of all laboratory equipment/instrumentation (spectrophotometer, Wet Chemistry Analyzer, FOSS, high-performance liquid chromatographer, gas chromatographer, turbidity meter, yeast counter) and other instruments, as required. Includes maintaining and calibrating analytical instruments in optimum operation condition and validating methods and equipment using a range of analytical techniques and instrumentation.
· Prepare standardized chemical solutions for analyses, as required.
· Execute all aspects of data collection and data management, clearly, accurately and securely - tracking of samples and results, processing work orders, billing, report preparation and distribution.
· Coordinate inventory of supplies, and ordering of supplies.
· Manage client samples - collection, receiving samples, storage, processing, disposal.
· Deliver tours of ALAB.
· Work closely with a Wine Quality Specialist on: interpretation of results, communication of results to clients, implementation and maintenance of Quality Assurance system within the laboratory.
· Some lab supervision of students might be required.
· Perform other tasks, as required.
Qualifications and Relevant Skills:
The preferred candidate will have:
· A Masters in analytical chemistry. Experienced applicants with degrees/diplomas in relevant areas (science, chemistry, microbiology, food science) will be considered.
· 3+ years of laboratory experience including chemical and microbiological testing. Preference given to applicants with experience in food and beverage technical roles.
· Familiarity with major aspects of wine analysis.
· An understanding of the proper use and preparation of standardized chemical solutions used in the laboratory.
· Knowledge of testing, calibration and quality assurance procedures, methods and equipment. Specific knowledge of and experience on ALAB equipment.
· Proficiency in basic computer applications, and an understanding of Lab Information Management Systems. An ability to learn quality assurance and statistical analysis software.
· The ability to work independently, as well as effectively in a team environment, and adhere to all safety regulations and operating procedures.
· Leadership qualities.
· Strong organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
· Some experience in budget preparation.
· Effective verbal and written communication skills in English.
Assets:
· Quality Assurance experience, preferably in the beverage/food industry.
· An understanding of general winemaking concepts and sensory analysis.
· Winery or vineyard work experience.
Salary commensurate with experience. This is a 12-month contract position, starting immediately, with a review/re-evaluation of the position after one year, and a possibility of renewal. We are open to some flexibility in terms of scheduling.
How To Apply
Applications will be considered starting May 25th, 2018
Applicants should send their CV and a cover letter electronically to the attention of Peggy Crawford, Manager, Industry Partnerships, Office of Industry & Community Engagement, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada B4P 2R6
