The Department of Agriculture is committed to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility. Our goal is to build a public sector workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve and to promote welcoming, diverse, inclusive, respectful workplaces that are accessible to all. We welcome all interested individuals including Indigenous People, persons with disabilities, Black, racialized, ethnic and culturally diverse groups, as well as people regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identities, and gender expressions. Those looking for more information are invited to visit our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy.
The PEI Analytical Laboratories (PEIAL) provide the public, farmers, extension specialists, corporations and research scientists with an analytical service for water, soil, feed, dairy, seed, plant tissue, manure, and compost samples. The results produced by the Laboratory are used to optimize efficiency of resource inputs, diagnose problems and ensure general sustainable resource practices. Analytical results are to be timely, accurate and repeatable to afford maximum utility to clients. This position is responsible for providing timely and accurate qualitative and quantitative analysis to the dairy industry in accordance with Dairy Farmers of PEI Board Orders which regulate the production of raw milk, the Public Health Act which regulates the processing of milk and dairy products, and herd improvement groups.
Duties will include but are not limited to:
- Receiving and sorting milk samples ensuring samples meet submission criteria for testing as required in PEIAL Method and Procedures;
- Organizing/prioritizing workload based on sample analysis requests;
- Performing compositional analysis (fat, protein, lactose, MUN, BHB, and fatty acids, of raw milk samples using Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR) technology;
- Analyzed for SCC and IBC using Flow Cytometry;
- Analyzing raw milk for the presence of Inhibitors using Charm EZ Reader and communicating results to the purchasing agency and producers;
- Analyzing bulk tank samples for adulteration by water as required in support of DFPEI regulations;
- Performing bacterial analysis of process dairy samples using Petrifilm;
- Performing chemical analysis of animal feed, soil, leaf tissue, manure and compost samples;
- Participating in the analysis of proficiency sample testing samples as per accreditation requirements;
- Maintaining documentation in the Dairy Composition, Dairy Microbiology, Soil and Feed Labs to meet accreditation criteria;
- Verifying data entry whether imported or manual input, quality control and test results;
- Cleaning and sterilizing of workspaces and labware;
- Electronic transfer of test results to LIMS, Lactanet, and clients as appropriate;
- Preparing reagents, performing equipment calibration, maintenance and troubleshooting;
- Organizing and preparing shipments of sample vials to clients;
- Providing producer/client support by telephone, email, and in person at the laboratory;
- Other duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications:
- A Diploma from a recognized Laboratory or Environmental Technology Program or a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology or Chemistry.
- Demonstrated equivalencies will be considered.
- Previous experience working in an accredited laboratory, using a variety of equipment would be considered an asset.
- WHMIS, First Aid, statistics, or internal auditor training would be considered an asset.
- Good working knowledge of computer software including Microsoft and Laboratory Information Management Systems.
- A background in the agricultural industry, particularly the dairy industry, would be an asset.
- Ability to work in a team environment.
Please Note: Please ensure the application clearly demonstrates how you meet the noted qualifications as applicants will be screened based on the information provided. We would like to thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those who are selected for an interview will be contacted.
Where possible, submitting an electronic resume or job application is preferred. Otherwise, please return forms to PEI Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 2000, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, C1A 7N8. Applications may be sent by fax to (902) 368-4383. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE APPLICANT TO CONFIRM RECEIPT OF THE APPLICATION, BY TELEPHONE OR IN PERSON PRIOR TO THE CLOSING DATE. Please ensure that the appropriate Posting ID number is stated on all application forms. You can apply online or obtain an application form by visiting our web site at www.jobspei.ca. Forms may also be obtained by contacting any PEI Government office, ACCESS PEI Centre, Regional Services Centre, or by telephone (902) 368-4080.
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