Lab Trainee

Role Overview
The Lab Trainee will undergo a structured six-month training program focused primarily on
microbiological testing with exposure to selected physico-chemical analyses (aflatoxin,
moisture, water quality, and visual assessments). The role is designed to build foundational lab
competencies, provide hands-on experience in food safety testing, and prepare the trainee to
take on an independent lab role.
This is a work-based learning opportunity where the trainee will contribute to day-to-day lab
operations while developing technical and professional skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Support in sample preparation, inoculation, plating, incubation, and colony counting under supervision.
• Assist with hygiene and environmental swabbing in line with zone 1/2/3 protocols.
• Participate in physico-chemical tests: moisture content, aflatoxin screening, water quality checks, and visual quality assessments.
• Accurately record test results in lab logbooks, and reporting templates.
• Draft preliminary Certificates of Analysis (CoAs) for review.
• Observe and support during audits, supplier inspections, and corrective action processes.
• Maintain lab hygiene, safety protocols, and proper use of equipment.
• Participate in an improvement project during the final month of training.

Learning & Competency Areas
Over six months, the trainee will develop:

• Microbiology Competencies:Aseptic technique, media preparation, microbial counts, pathogen detection, hygiene monitoring.
• Physico-chemical Competencies:Moisture determination, aflatoxin screening, water quality testing, visual food quality assessments.
• Operational Competencies:Documentation, CoA drafting, QA/QC principles, linking lab results to corrective actions.
• Soft Skills:Lab discipline, attention to detail, teamwork, professional communication, data integrity, initiative.

Supervision & Support

• Bi-weekly check-ins with the Lab Associate.
• Escalation to Senior Associate;Food Safety & Quality when additional support is required.
• Monthly written and practical assessments to track progress.

Eligibility (Internal Applicants Only)

• Must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Food Safety, Microbiology, Food Science, or a closely related field.
• Current employment with Food for Education for at least 1 year.
• Demonstrated discipline, attention to detail, and ability to follow SOPs.
• Strong interest in food safety and quality assurance.
• Basic computer literacy (Excel, Word, email communication).
• Previous exposure to kitchen audits, hygiene monitoring, or QA and processes will be an advantage, but is not mandatory.

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