Laboratory Technician

We have great opportunity for a Laboratory Technician in our Kerry site in Charleville, Co. Cork.

This is a full time, seasonal role in our Powder Lab.

Currently shifts are being finalised and will be discussed at interview but are likely to be 8-hour cycle shifts moving onto 12 hour cycle shifts for 4 on/4off

In our Kerry Ingredients site in Charleville, we have around 140 employees and we produce articles like skim milk powder for the infant and nutritional sector, functional dairy ingredients for the confectionary industry and a range of cheese powders for the savoury snack market. The site has canteen and onsite parking; and it is situated on Kilmallock Road (R515) withing 15 minutes’ walk from the town centre.

The Laboratory Technician is based in our Powder Lab, within Milk intake. You will be responsible for testing and analysing product samples to ensure that the quality standards are met. Any previous experience as Lab Assistant, Lab Analyst, Quality Technician or QC Technician will be advantageous. 

Kerry Group’s UK & Ireland dairy related business includes Dairy Ingredients, Dairy Nutritional Ingredients, Dairy Consumer Foods, and Agribusiness. With a revenue in excess of €1bn per year, it is one of the world’s leading dairy businesses. With our strong dairy heritage and deep-rooted connection to our 3,000 milk suppliers, right through to our portfolio of innovative and high-quality brands, the dairy business has a unique and compelling proposition for both consumers and our customers. 

Our dairy business has a diversified portfolio of dairy, nutritional ingredients and market leading dairy brands and its vertically integrated dairy processing ensures the highest quality, sustainably produced 1.2bn litres of milk for our dairy, nutritional ingredients, and consumer foods business – a key consideration among some of our largest customers across the globe.  

We have an unrivalled dairy consumer brands portfolio coupled with a track record in innovation underpinned by technology and science. We manufacture and market our own leading butter, dairy, and plant spreads brands: Dairygold, Low Low, Pure and Golden Cow. We are the largest supplier of Private Label dairy spreads, supplying all major retailers in Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe. Our cheese brands compete in children’s cheese snacks (Attack-a-Snak), natural cheese (block, slices and grated), and in processed cheese segments and our leading cheese brands include Strings & Things, Coleraine, and Charleville Cheese. Through our multi-geographical presence (UK, Ireland, and Western Europe) we have a deep consumer insight which is a key component of the business. 

Reporting to the QC Laboratory Supervisor the Laboratory Technician’s responsibilities include:

Lab support for both Environmental and Milk Intake Labs including the following tasks:

Analysing raw materials (con c etc), in process and finished product samples (whey, skim, milk powder etc) across the in-process lab.

Carrying out all laboratory activities in line with GLP and in-house requirements.

Complying with GLP/GMP and safety requirements at all times.

Assisting with ensuring the laboratory is always adequately stocked with the consumables necessary to carry out the analyses.

Recording all data relevant to test, and results including keeping all records up to date, clear and legible.

Performing basic instrument calibration, maintenance (LECO) and completion of associated records.

Participation in proficiency testing within scope of laboratory accreditations.

Maintaining the laboratory in a clean and well organised status at all times.

Participation in audits (internal and external) and inspections.

Support site audits as required.

Any other duties required to fulfil role.

Lab experience is desirable but not essential. On the job training will be provided with the successful candidate being required to pass a proficiency test at the end of the training period.

Computer literate - working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, SAP.

Proven ability to work on own initiative.

Proven ability to work within a quality control function, with attention to details and compliance.

Ability to multi-task.

Good communication skills.

Ability to deal wit auditors, external parties as required.

Opportunity for career development, matched pension scheme to up to 10% and access to an employee assistance program and employee benefit platform. 

In Kerry we benefit from the knowledge of our colleagues who bring a diverse range of cultures, backgrounds, lifestyles and experiences.

One team fostering an inclusive culture that, above all, inspires food and nourishes life.

One culture where everyone brings their unique perspectives and experiences to help make us better, together.

We are committed to nurturing an environment of positivity and inclusiveness, where everyone can be at their best, both personally and professionally.

​Our recruitment, selection and assessment process are based on the skills and competencies of the specific roles and based entirely on merit. We are committed to and value Diversity and Inclusion in all recruitment processes within Kerry and do not discriminate based on gender, race, class, economic status, ethnic background, sexual orientation, age, political beliefs, veteran status, marital status or any other protected characteristic.

Get in touch today- we look forward to meeting you