Position Summary

Under the general direction of the Nutrition & Quality Control Laboratory Manager, the Laboratory Scientist I will be working in a high-performance team, responsible for performing analytical, chemical, physical, and microbiological testing required for quality control testing of Raw Materials, Finished Feed and Forage samples.  The Laboratory Scientist I will also participate in investigations and studies to innovate Animal feed, work in cross functional teams and assist in achieving WNSIC team goals.

Who are we: 

We're a leading Northeast family-owned food, agricultural products, and agricultural services organization headquartered in Pennsylvania. We provide animal nutrition and feeds; specialty protein production, processing, and marketing; on-farm protein production services; and grain, fertilizer, and ingredient procurement. 

We're a stable company with strong core values, great benefits, competitive wage structure, and a safe and healthy work environment. With over 850 team members, we're a growing company in an essential sector – agriculture! 

Learn more here: https://www.thewengergroup.com 

What will you do:

• Receive ingredients, feed, and forage samples in compliance with TWG QC processes, properly identify and record their processes for accuracy and traceability.
• Prepare samples for various test methods, including weighing, processing (grinding, drying, etc) and extractions with organic solvents and or Acids. 
• Perform routine analysis under supervision from senior staff on samples using standard operating procedures and report observations and results.
• Operate and maintain test instruments appropriately to measure and test samples. Performs routine maintenance on designated test instruments, including ICP-OES, HPLC MS, NIR, Dumatherm, Fibretherm, and Soxtherms. 
• Interpret results and notifies the Nutrition & Quality Control Laboratory Manager of samples that do not meet specifications.
• Assist in obtaining and maintaining Laboratory Accreditations by participating in internal and external assessments.
• Support and contribute to maintaining office and laboratory environment consistent with LEAN 6S and all regulatory requirements.
• Support food safety program, quality standards, and legality of products manufactured in the facility.
• Ensure appropriate amounts of all consumables are always available for tests; coordinate with suppliers for placing orders, receiving and appropriate use.
• Other projects and/or activities as assigned by the Nutrition & Quality Control Laboratory Manager.
• Qualifications
• Bachelor's in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, animal nutrition, agricultural sciences or basic sciences or a high school diploma and 5 years of hands on Laboratory experience. 
• Minimum of 1-3 years hands on experience in analytical, wet chemistry, NIR, principles of gravimetric analysis, spectroscopy or Microbiology in a commercial laboratory setting.
• Experience with food/feed testing, and AOAC/AOCS methods
• Requires attention to detail in making evaluative judgements based on the analysis of factual information. 
• Sound and comprehensive written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, LIMS software.

Additional Job Requirements

• Willing and able to travel to company location sites
• Flexibility to be present and available for off-shift hours when necessary
• Ability to work from a feed mill and/or in dusty conditions occasionally
• Ability to lift up to 25lbs at times 

In addition to our more traditional benefits, we also offer great perks and numerous resources for professional development and team building: 

• Promotional opportunities 
• Rewards and recognition programs 
• Robust onboarding and training program 
• Employee Discount Programs (Perks at Work) 
• Employee referral program  
• Encouraging and collaborative culture  

What our benefits are: 

• Paid Time Off, Floating Holiday, Volunteer Day, Parental Leave, etc.  
• Carebridge Employee Assistance Program 

For all full-time members): 

• Medical 
• Dental 
• Vision 
• Health Savings Account (HSA) 
• Medical Flexible Spending Account 

• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account  
• Life Insurance/Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance 
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability  
• Pet Insurance 

 Each team member has the potential to earn a yearly bonus based on the achievement of company goals. 

The Wenger Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type as protected by federal, state or local laws.This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.