Laboratory Technician

Food Lab Tech

Kelly® Science & Clinical is seeking a Food Lab Tech for a contract position at a cutting-edge client in San Clemente, CA. If you’re passionate about bringing the latest scientific discoveries to life and are ready to take the next step in your career, trust The Experts at Hiring Experts.

Pay: $25/hour

Schedule: Mon-Fri Day Shift. Onsite

Overview

Our client is an industry-leading company in the food and beverage sector, focused on innovation and quality. In this role, you will support the Global Technical Services (GTS) team, including product development and quality assurance. Responsibilities include managing ingredients, preparing lab samples of product formulations, performing basic lab analyses, and maintaining lab organization. Additional tasks may involve managing finished product inventory and samples.

Responsibilities

• Prepare bench-top product samples: locate ingredients, follow formula instructions, weigh, blend, and label products.
• Manage ingredient inventory.
• Collect, analyze, and report on raw material ingredients; document in SQMS database. Monitor pH, brix, solids, color, and sensory profiles.
• Ship and receive product samples.
• Maintain lab: calibrate equipment, perform light cleaning, and keep areas organized.
• Pre-receiving tasks: plan for incoming finished product samples, review/upload shipping and technical documents (COAs), and communicate status to team.
• Organize and test samples upon receipt: label and perform basic lab tests (brix, pH).
• Participate in sensory analysis and follow up on additional sample requests.
• Monitor quality of incoming ingredients by reviewing COAs, collecting samples, and performing visual/taste inspections.
• Organize raw and finished product retain sample inventory in lab storage areas (refrigerators, freezers, ambient storage); maintain FIFO and dispose of expired samples as needed.

Qualifications

• B.S. degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Nutrition, or similar science-based discipline OR 1–2 years of experience working in a lab setting.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and tasks.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.
• Working knowledge of basic laboratory procedures and analyses; food science, quality assurance, and/or manufacturing experience is a plus.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word); experience with Filemaker and Genesis (Esha) is a plus.

What happens next

Once you apply, you’ll proceed to next steps if your skills and experience look like a good fit. But don’t worry – even if this position doesn’t work out, you’re still in our network. That means our team of expert Science & Clinical recruiters will have access to your profile, making your opportunities limitless.