Sample Lab Technician (Food Manufacturing)
7 days ago
San Diego
Job DescriptionDescription:Sample Lab Technician (Food Manufacturing) Department: Sales FLSA Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Shift/Schedule: Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM Location: Otay Mesa, CA Overview Jensen Meat Company is seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Sample Lab Technician to support Sales, Product Development, Operations, and customer initiatives through the preparation, coordination, and distribution of product samples across the Beef, Plant-Based, and Fresh divisions. This role serves as a critical liaison between departments to ensure samples are accurately prepared, documented, cooked, packaged, and delivered according to customer specifications and business timelines. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong organizational and communication skills, and is comfortable supporting customer evaluations, product demonstrations, trade shows, and cross-functional business initiatives. Primary Responsibilities Sample Processing & Preparation • Receive, review, prioritize, and process internal and external sample requests., • Coordinate sample requests across Beef, Plant-Based, and Fresh product categories., • Enter and manage sample orders in PLEX, Microsoft Access, and other company systems., • Verify product specifications, quantities, packaging requirements, and delivery timelines., • Create, review, and apply all required labels, documentation, and shipping materials., • Prepare and cook product samples according to established procedures and customer specifications., • Package and organize samples for shipment, customer pickup, internal evaluations, and presentations., • Coordinate with Production, Operations, Product Development, and other departments to ensure timely sample availability., • Schedule and support cook-and-look evaluations, product demonstrations, and customer tastings., • Monitor sample inventory levels and communicate replenishment needs., • Enforce sample request lead times and communicate expectations to internal stakeholders and customers., • Maintain organized records of sample requests, shipments, and related documentation. Customer Support & Project Coordination • Serve as the primary point of contact regarding sample requests and scheduling., • Communicate sample status updates, timelines, and priorities to Sales, Management, and internal departments., • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support customer evaluations, product launches, and business initiatives., • Assist in resolving issues related to sample preparation, scheduling, or delivery., • Support customer visits, product demonstrations, and special projects as needed. Trade Shows, Events & Product Demonstrations • Support the preparation, cooking, presentation, and transportation of products for trade shows, conferences, customer meetings, and company-sponsored events., • Assist with event setup, logistics, and product presentation activities., • Coordinate with Sales and Product Development teams to ensure products are prepared and presented according to specifications., • Support marketing and customer engagement initiatives through sample preparation and event participation. Cross-Training & Administrative Support • Participate in cross-training initiatives to develop knowledge of related operational and administrative functions., • Provide backup support during employee absences or periods of increased workload., • Serve as a backup for order processing activities, including order entry, verification, and coordination with internal departments., • Assist with order tracking and fulfillment support as needed., • Serve as a backup for invoicing functions, ensuring accurate and timely processing of customer invoices and supporting documentation., • Assist with data entry, record maintenance, reporting, and general administrative tasks., • Support departmental projects and continuous improvement initiatives., • Perform other duties as assigned to support business operations. Food Safety & Compliance • Follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety requirements, and company sanitation procedures., • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary sample preparation and storage area., • Ensure proper product handling, storage, temperature control, and traceability throughout the sample preparation process., • Adhere to all workplace safety policies and procedures when handling food products, equipment, and chemicals., • Assist with audits, inspections, and documentation related to sample activities as needed. Requirements: Education & Experience • High School Diploma or GED required., • Associate degree in Business, Food Science, Culinary Arts, Logistics, or a related field preferred., • One to three years of experience in sample coordination, food production support, customer service, administrative support, or a related role preferred., • Experience working in a food manufacturing environment is preferred., • Experience supporting customer presentations, product demonstrations, or trade shows is a plus. Knowledge & Skills • Strong organizational and time-management skills., • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously., • Excellent verbal and written communication skills., • Strong attention to detail and accuracy., • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Outlook, and Word., • Experience with ERP systems such as PLEX and Microsoft Access preferred., • Ability to follow written instructions and standardized procedures., • Strong customer service mindset with a collaborative approach., • Ability to work independently and as part of a team., • Flexibility to support special events, customer visits, and trade shows when needed., • Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. Work Environment & Physical Requirements • Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout office, kitchen, laboratory, and production environments., • Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds occasionally., • Ability to safely handle food products and operate cooking equipment., • Ability to work in refrigerated and food production environments when required., • Ability to travel locally to support company events, trade shows, and customer presentations as needed., • Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and perform repetitive motions throughout the workday.