Lab Technician 1

About the role

Join the Tillamook Team, one of the fastest-growing dairy brands in the US, where we create over 200 dairy products across seven categories: cheese, ice cream, yogurt, sour cream, butter, cream cheese, and frozen meals. As a farmer-owned cooperative since 1909, we value team members with a One Team and Genuine Care mindset who are inspired to share the delight of the Tillamook brand.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbial and chemical analysis of cheese, milk, whey, butter, sour cream, yogurt, and ice cream.
• Conduct additional testing, including milk components, sensory evaluation, antibiotics, added water, sediments, and drinking water.
• Perform data entry into NAV and occasional email correspondence.
• Use wet chemistry or rapid analysis equipment for daily testing tasks.
• Assist with descriptive sensory analysis, statistical analysis, and writing technical briefs.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with employees, supervisors, and the public.
• Communicate effectively and work collaboratively with staff at all levels.
• Prioritize work, manage time effectively, and work independently with minimal supervision.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED required.
• 1+ years of experience in dairy sensory or a working lab preferred.
• Computer literacy with intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; SharePoint is a plus.
• Experience with specialized databases (e.g., ERP systems such as LIMS) preferred.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting, standing, and/or walking for extended periods.
• Lifting up to 35 pounds.
• Vision for machine or computer operations.
• Hearing for communication and equipment operation.
• Repetitive motion of hands.
• Stooping, bending, crouching, and climbing ladders.
• Standing (50% of shift), sitting (25%), walking (10%), lifting (10%), and climbing (5%).

Working Conditions

• Laboratory environment with shared workstations, testing equipment, and computer terminals.
• Generally quiet, temperature-controlled, and well-lit spaces.
• May involve walking on uneven, slippery surfaces and encountering forklift traffic.
• Exposure to chemicals and potential hazards requiring safety precautions.

Benefits

We offer industry-leading benefit and reward programs. For more information, visit our careers page.