Lab Technician (Day Shift)

Are you known for exceeding expectations? Do you embrace the Spirit of Hawai‘i? Then please keep reading because we’re looking for people like you at Hawaiian Host Group.

Who are we? Hawaiian Host Group (HHG) is a leading Hawai‘i-based consumer goods company with a portfolio of brands that includes Hawaiian Host, Mauna Loa, MacFarms, KOHO, and Kapua Orchards. Sold in over 23 countries, HHG produces a suite of products ranging from flavored macadamia nuts to artisan chocolates, and macadamia milk-based ice cream. Our dedicated team of Hosts of Hawai‘i is spread across our headquarters in Honolulu and offices in Hilo, Kona, Los Angeles, and Tokyo. HHG has 3 manufacturing plants in Hawai'i, as well as the state's largest single macadamia farm.   

We are an excited team of people that all have one vision in common: sharing the Spirit of Hawai‘i with the world. Expect camaraderie, product tastings, and other (virtual and in-person) events that make our culture unique. And more importantly, know that your work contributes to our purpose; to make the Islands’ future flourish. We do this through our Takitani foundation that grants scholarships to deserving local students, our solar farm on the Big Island, and other social & environmental initiatives.

That’s enough about us for now, we’d love to learn more about you. Read the job description below and let us know if you’re interested. We can’t wait to meet you!

POSITION SUMMARY:  

Under the guidance of the Quality Assurance (QA) Manager and reporting directly to the Lab Supervisor, this role involves monitoring and verifying Food Safety & Quality Assurance policies, programs, and procedures to ensure adherence to company standards, food safety regulations, government mandates, and industry best practices such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP). Additionally, this position actively contributes to the implementation of ongoing product and process improvement initiatives.

• Conducts incoming inspections for ingredients and packaging; Certificate of Analysis (COA) and packaging gold standard reviews; and checks supplier approval documentation for compliance.
• Performs pre-operational line checks, including adenosine triphosphate (ATP) swab testing, facility and equipment inspections, and employee GMP/hygiene checks.
• Performs production process control, including, but not limited to verifying the metal detector, net weight, and equipment programming settings.
• Performs label control verification activities.
• Handles finished product positive pallet release procedures and maintains finished product retains.
• Conducts daily GMP walk-throughs, monitors equipment and facility temperatures, and reports pest activity.
• Supports QA Supervisor in ensuring that sanitation duties and responsibilities are met according to the Master Sanitation Schedule and Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs).
• Participates in Monthly GMP and Food Defense plant inspections, Environmental Monitoring Program swabbing, finished product micro and chemistry testing, internal audits, and mock traceability exercises.
• Under the supervision and approval of the QA management team, updates Food Safety and Quality standard operating procedures (SOPs) and forms using the documentation control program.
• Reviews and files food safety and quality records; maintains QA Logs, trends QA Objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Assists in executing the QA Hold program and writing nonconformance reports (NCRs).
• Helps develop new products and commission new equipment, including sampling and testing new formulas, determining process capabilities of new equipment, determining process control settings, re-evaluation of the HACCP program for new formulas/ equipment and implementation of preventive controls.
• Works both independently and collaboratively, providing support across multiple departments as needed.
• Performs all duties and maintains standards in accordance with company policies and procedures.
• Must be flexible with schedules, including the ability to work night shifts and extended hours as needed.
• Regular attendance is required for the position.

• Basic math skills are required. 
• A high school diploma is preferred. 
• Prior experience in a factory or lab environment is preferred.
• Must have proficient computer skills, particularly Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook). 
• Strong accuracy and attention to detail are essential. 
• The ability to multitask, work well under pressure, and meet deadlines is a must. 
• Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds unassisted. 
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to follow instructions are required. 
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test. 
• A 30-day probationary period is required.  

• Seldom: Reaching overhead, pinching, gripping, squatting, climbing, lifting >20 lbs.
• Occasional:  Walking, finger dexterity, pushing/pulling up to 100 lbs. using a pallet jack
• Frequent:  Wrist movement, repetitive motion, lifting up to 50 lbs., pushing/pulling up to 50 lbs.
• Constant:  Standing, depth perception, carrying up to 50 lbs. 

• Must be able to communicate effectively with supervisors, customers, and co-workers.
• Must be able to read, write, speak, receive verbal and written instruction, and apply basic math skills.

• Exposure to noise (85+ dB).
• Exposure to heat (up to 85 degrees F) and cold (up to 60 degrees F).
• May work at heights above 3 ft.
• Exposure to dust.
• Exposure to electrical and mechanical hazards. 

Hawaiian Host Group is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.