Technician, Laboratory

About the role

The Quality Control Technician plays a crucial role as the subject matter expert of the production shift, monitoring product quality, sampling, analyzing, and reporting any deviations. They document findings and recommend corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).

Responsibilities

• Collects and performs physical and analytical sampling and testing of raw ingredients, packaging materials, and finished goods dairy food products.
• Applies and interprets microbiological/bacteriological test results.
• Identifies and communicates out-of-specification analytical test results.
• Routinely collects product samples from production lines.
• Maintains and accurately completes analytical testing documents and enters data into the system.
• Prepares various stock solutions and calibrates and maintains lab testing equipment.
• Performs environmental control swabbing after clean-up and CIP/SIP.
• Reports any deviations and supports internal and external audits.
• Supports consumer complaint investigations and mock and product recall programs.
• Prepares and distributes customer certificates of analysis.
• Completes and maintains specific State regulatory licensing/certificates (CDFA, DFA Appendix N, Good Laboratory Practices).
• Ensures good laboratory housekeeping and adheres to Quality Assurance Procedures (QAP’s).
• Complies with federal, state, and local dairy food regulations.
• Works collaboratively with co-workers and other department personnel.

Requirements

• A degree in Food or Dairy Science, preferably.
• Previous experience with food quality specifications, physical and analytical testing, process control monitoring, and documentation.
• Advanced quality/food safety training and/or certifications preferred but not required.
• Working knowledge of food manufacturing acronyms.
• Ability to pass and maintain regulatory certification.
• Strong math and computer skills (SAP, Microsoft Office products, email, copy, scanning).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated work history.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with noise, changing temperatures, prolonged standing/walking.
• Bending/stooping/climbing stairs, maneuvering around manufacturing equipment.
• Handling chemicals, wearing personal protective equipment, and following chemical handling procedures.
• Good visual acuity with color differentiation.
• Sensory health, ability to taste, smell, and evaluate odors and flavors.
• Physical lifting up to 50 lbs intermittently and with assistance.
• Shift flexibility.