Lab Tech

Schedule

• 2nd shift
• 12:30 PM to 11 PM on an alternating 4-day work week
• Willing to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as needed

About the Role

Built on over a century of dedication, Maola is always looking ahead—investing in our people, strengthening our communities, and securing fresh, local dairy for the future. Join a farmer-owned cooperative rooted in integrity, sustainability, and a passion for providing fresh, high-quality Maola dairy products. Our employees are an integral part of who we are — what you do and what you think matters.

Responsibilities

• Conduct testing to determine causes for contamination in finished products that directly affect quality, shelf life, flavor, and color
• Conduct testing to determine the quality of raw milk and ingredients for formulated products
• Conduct testing as outlined in standard methods for examining milk products for butterfat, total solids, and other attributes
• Perform weight checks on incoming samples
• Perform volumetric determination of container fills
• Perform chemical concentration checks on central sanitizer system, on foot spray systems, on CIP cleaners and sanitizers as needed
• Conduct environmental testing in the production areas using ATP swabs
• Perform organoleptic testing on finished product
• Perform viscosities using Zahn cups on ice cream mixes, buttermilk, and chocolate milk before packaging, and on packaged products
• Validate test results through the use of controls and standards in the operation of laboratory equipment
• Become certified and maintain certification for antibiotic testing through biennial on-site evaluation by the state LEO (Laboratory Evaluation Officer) and annual split sampling program
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment
• All associates are responsible for restocking disposable items and making supplies as needed without prompting from others
• Other duties may be assigned

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Associate Degree or B.S. in Food or Biological Sciences or a minimum of two years' experience in a QA/QC position working in a food, chemical, or agricultural manufacturing facility preferred

Competencies

• Communication: Communicate clearly and effectively through multiple channels – oral, written, visual, and non-verbal – ensuring our messages are understood and delivered appropriately, whether in-person or digitally
• Accountability: Take responsibility for actions and anticipate challenges before they arise. Solve problems both within and outside of departments, proactively addressing issues as they occur
• Customer Focused: Prioritize understanding and meeting both internal and external customer needs. Ensure high levels of satisfaction and loyalty by anticipating customer requirements and striving for exceptional service
• Initiative: Proactive in identifying opportunities and addressing potential threats. Act independently and decisively, rather than waiting for situations to demand action
• Problem-Solving: Possess the ability to identify and address complex issues with minimal guidance. Skilled at analyzing challenges and finding practical, effective solutions
• Collaboration: Take responsibility for deliverables while also supporting others to ensure that collective goals are met. Able to work harmoniously with others toward a common goal, recognizing and valuing each person's contributions, is fundamental to successful collaboration

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. The employee must be able to reach, bend, extend, and lift 50-60 pounds. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment

The work environment may require working in the cooler room with varying degrees of temperature and may include contact with water or dairy liquids. Exposed to a noise level of 90 decibels. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate/high. Wet/slippery work conditions. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.