Lab Technician - 2nd Shift

Garelick Farms, Dairy Farmers of America, offers excellent benefits, competitive pay, and growth opportunities.

Schedule

• 2nd Shift: Sunday through Thursday, 1:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Pay

• Base rate: $22.75/hour
• Shift differential: +$1.50/hour (2nd and 3rd shifts)

About the role

Perform tasks related to the testing of products, setting of samples, and following through on various quality-assurance programs. Test and inspect products at various stages of the batching and production process. Compile and evaluate data to determine and maintain quality and reliability of products. Use gauges and other devices to verify conformity to standards. Work with a high degree of accuracy and concentration to produce valid test results in a timely manner. Ensure that products are produced and distributed to the highest food-safety and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Ensure quality of batch preparation and quality-control activities, including process inspection, sampling, and evaluation to meet specification and quality standards
• Test incoming and outgoing products for suitability and compliance with appropriate standards
• Perform sample setup, sorting, preparation, and clean-up
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory instrumentation as directed
• Notify supervisor immediately of any out-of-range value or variation from accepted norms in operations or product quality; monitor quality problems or trends
• Maintain lab records as directed; complete all required paperwork accurately, clearly, timely, and completely with required information; complete data entry into computer system(s)
• Ensure all required information is documented in accordance with standard operating procedures
• Prepare reports of results
• Maintain process control by monitoring and/or generating statistical information and reporting to team leader or supervisor
• Participate in task meetings and suggest changes in work tasks and use of equipment to increase efficiencies
• Perform daily cleaning of task area, keeping work area free of clutter; during CIP (Clean in Place), perform detail cleaning in task areas; wash lab utensils and glassware; assist with other clean-up activities
• Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
• Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food-safety, quality, and sanitation requirements

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent coupled with food manufacturing, laboratory, food testing, quality assurance, or related work experience; or post-secondary education related to food science, biological science, or related sciences
• Up to 1 year of food manufacturing laboratory or quality-assurance experience preferred
• Certification and/or license (may be required during course of employment, such as Better Processing Certificate, state certification for antibiotic testing, etc.)

Skills

• Familiarity with all applicable laboratory equipment
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
• Able to use and understand calculations used for laboratory analysis
• Able to follow laboratory procedures and state and federal regulations regarding the testing of applicable products
• Strong record-keeping skills
• Able to follow directions with accuracy and attention to detail
• Clear and effective verbal and written communication
• Able to work collaboratively, foster teamwork, and share relevant information promptly
• Able to identify problems, find solutions, and implement them
• Able to perform tasks and duties without constant supervision
• Must be able to read, write, and speak English