Laboratory Technician II

Foremost Farms USA is one of the largest, leading dairy cooperatives in the United States and a major dairy food and ingredients manufacturing business. We represent hundreds of Midwest dairy farmer members across seven states and produce about 500 million pounds of cheese and 50 million pounds of butter annually in plants across our network. With seven manufacturing plants in Wisconsin and Michigan and headquarters in Middleton (Madison), Wisconsin, we bring dairy to life and seek employees who are innovative and strive for excellence in our diverse production, field, and business roles.

About the Role

This full-time, non-exempt position operates on a 2-2-3 schedule from 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM, including every other weekend. The Laboratory Technician is responsible for accurate sampling and testing of raw materials, in-process, and finished products to meet analytical and microbiological standards aligned with customer and company requirements.

Responsibilities

• Perform sampling and testing in accordance with documented laboratory procedures to ensure consistency and accuracy of results.
• Prioritize and prepare lab samples for testing and shipment to other labs and customers.
• Prepare reagents, microbial culture media, and controls following standard formulas.
• Conduct sampling in the production environment, including environmental pathogen sponges, ATP swabs, clean equipment, and operational swabs.
• Perform analytical tests and complete required documentation for samples, incoming, and finished products.
• Accurately enter test results into R12 and other utilized databases.
• Participate in the Proficiency Testing program and achieve satisfactory results for analytical and microbiological samples.
• Clean and sterilize laboratory equipment and waste.
• Adhere to safety guidelines, work with integrity, and communicate effectively with the team to foster a culture of excellence.
• Maintain and recalibrate lab equipment; assist in troubleshooting efforts with equipment.
• Follow established guidelines for retesting and comply with company safety policies, GMPs, GLPs, and state/federal regulatory requirements.
• Interpret lab results and escalate out-of-spec or suspect results to leadership.
• Participate in laboratory investigations as needed and facilitate training for new laboratory technicians.
• Monitor and verify control points (e.g., CCP, PC, CQP, HACCP, SQF) and maintain related documentation.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma.
• 2-3 years of job-related experience.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Able to follow instructions and procedures with a high degree of accuracy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree or lab certification.
• Familiarity with a lab environment.
• Understanding of electronic and computerized laboratory equipment.

Skills

• Build trusting relationships through effective communication, follow-through, conflict resolution, and recognition of others' work.
• Challenge the status quo by identifying improvement opportunities and embracing change and growth.
• Demonstrate growth-oriented qualities: curiosity, open-mindedness, agility, learning from failures, and inspiring others.
• Exhibit self-awareness of strengths and weaknesses and seek feedback for improvement.
• Proactively share relevant information and collaborate with others.

Work Environment

Plant laboratory and production floor.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Flexible coverage options for you and your family.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: 100% company match on up to 8% of your contributions.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Start with 200 hours of PTO (pro-rated for the first year).
• Paid Holidays: 10 paid holidays per year.
• Paid Parental Leave: 6 weeks fully paid.
• Health Savings Account (HSA): Available with a high-deductible health plan.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): For medical and dependent care expenses.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Financial protection for you and your loved ones.
• Daily Pay Option: Access your earnings when needed.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free, confidential support for life’s challenges.
• Referral Program: Earn rewards for bringing great people to the team.
• Career Growth Opportunities: Advance your skills and career with us.

Schedule

1:00 PM – 1:00 AM on a 2-2-3 schedule, working every other weekend.