Quality Assurance Lab Technician - 12 Hour Nights

About the role

As a top 10 global dairy processor, Saputo values contributions that matter and strives to foster an inclusive, growth-driven work environment. This role involves collecting samples and performing physical and microbiological testing of raw ingredients, packaging materials, and finished dairy products in accordance with established guidelines, with the ability to apply and interpret results.

Responsibilities

• Collect samples and perform physical analytical sampling and testing of raw ingredients, packaging materials, and finished goods dairy food products in accordance with established guidelines; apply and interpret results.
• Perform microbiological/bacteriological sampling and testing of dairy food products in accordance with established guidelines; apply and interpret results.
• Identify and effectively communicate any out-of-specification analytical test results; follow established notification protocol.
• Routinely collect product samples from production lines as outlined by testing requirements.
• Maintain all QC records and filing with exceptional organizational skills; accurately and neatly complete analytical testing documents and enter data into system.
• Prepare various stock solutions used in the laboratory; calibrate and maintain all lab testing equipment.
• Perform environmental control swabbing after clean-up and CIP/SIP; report any deviations.
• Knowledge of consumer complaint investigation process; support internal and external audits; support mock and product recall program guidelines.
• Prepare and process production records to isolate any out-of-specification product including product deviations from standard, on-hold, regulatory holds, etc.
• Prepare and distribute customer certificates of analysis.
• Proficient with all quality control functions throughout the facility.
• Complete, pass, and maintain specific State regulatory licensing/certificate requirements (CDFA, DFA Appendix N, Good Laboratory Practices).
• Perform good laboratory housekeeping within established housekeeping guidelines; comply with all Quality Assurance Procedures (QAP’s).
• Comply with federal, state, and local dairy food regulations; adhere to the Saputo Code of Ethics and actively apply the Saputo Company Values.
• Work together professionally with co-workers and other department personnel.
• Other duties as required by management.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or Equivalent; Associate’s Degree with a concentration in Food or Dairy Science preferred.
• Previous experience with food quality specifications, process control monitoring, and positive release documentation or similar experience with strict adherence to protocol preferred.
• Advanced quality/food safety training and/or certifications is a plus.
• Working understanding of food manufacturing acronyms (SQF, QA/QC, CQP, QAP, HACCP, SOP, 5S, GMP, etc.).
• Ability to pass and successfully maintain regulatory certification, as required.
• Strong math skills; strong computer and business skills (SAP, Microsoft Office products, email, copy, scanning).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment which includes noise, changing temperatures (hot, wet, cold, humid), prolonged periods of standing/walking.
• Bending/stooping/climbing stairs, maneuvering around manufacturing equipment throughout the shift.
• Working with chemicals, wearing personal protective equipment, and following approved chemical handling procedures.
• Good visual acuity with the ability to see color.
• Physical lifting up to 40-lbs intermittently throughout shift; up to 50-lbs with assistance.
• Shift flexibility; this is a support role for a 24/7 manufacturing facility.

Schedule

This position follows a compressed workweek with alternating 3-day and 4-day workweeks, offering employees extended time off while supporting our 24/7 manufacturing operation.