Laboratory Technician - Fixed Term Contract

About the Role

Join Tirlán, a world-leading food and nutrition co-operative headquartered in Dungarvan, County Waterford, Ireland. Our company boasts a diverse portfolio of prestigious brands including Avonmore, Kilmeaden Cheese, Millac, Solmiko, and others. With operations across Ireland, the US, MEA, and China, Tirlán generates over €3 billion in annual revenue and is dedicated to nourishing the world sustainably.

As a Laboratory Technician on a fixed-term contract, you will work alongside experienced technicians and a laboratory manager to conduct various Chemistry and Microbiology tests focused on milk quality control and assurance. Our CLAS-accredited lab provides comprehensive onboarding and ongoing training related to quality assurance systems, accreditation processes, and internal audits.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct raw milk analyses utilizing microbiological techniques including private well water testing, Standard Plate Count (SPC), and culture methods.
• Perform rapid microbiology assays such as Bactoscan, ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay), and PCR testing.
• Execute chemical analyses using FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), Gerber method, Kjeldahl method, and LCMS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry).
• Test for antibiotic and inhibitor residues in samples.
• Maintain accurate documentation and records for all laboratory processes.
• Participate actively in internal and external proficiency testing programs.
• Oversee cleaning, maintenance, and calibration of laboratory equipment.
• Ensure laboratory hygiene and safety standards are consistently met.
• Identify and escalate any non-conformances quickly and contribute to investigations and continuous improvement initiatives.

Candidate Requirements

• Educational background in Microbiology, Food Science, Chemistry, or a related quality assurance discipline.
• Experience or familiarity with the agricultural or dairy sector is preferred but not mandatory.
• Strong communication skills with a collaborative team-oriented mindset.
• Proficient with IT applications relevant to laboratory data management.
• Ability to analyze test results and solve problems effectively.
• Organised, adaptable, and motivated to undertake further training and professional development as needed.

Employee Benefits

• Access to convenient onsite parking facilities.
• Supportive and cooperative workplace culture encouraging teamwork.
• Opportunities for career advancement within the organisation.

About Tirlán

Utilising advanced research and development, food safety measures, customer insights, and cutting-edge manufacturing, Tirlán delivers innovative food and nutrition solutions worldwide. Our vibrant headquarters in Kilkenny City serves as a hybrid collaborative hub, fostering multi-disciplinary teamwork.

Diversity and Inclusion

We embrace diversity and value the unique perspectives and experiences that individuals from all backgrounds bring. Our inclusive environment welcomes candidates irrespective of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, identity, national origin, age, marital status, or disability status.