Lab Technician

Job Title:

Laboratory Technician

Job Description

+ The Laboratory Technician performs laboratory testing on production and finished product samples to verify compliance with regulatory requirements and internal quality standards for dairy-related products.

+ This role supports safe, efficient manufacturing by ensuring that products meet all quality, safety, and labeling specifications, while maintaining accurate records and collaborating closely with production and quality teams.

Responsibilities

+ Perform microbiological, chemical, physical, and sensory testing on finished products, in-process samples, and incoming materials according to laboratory and operations schedules.

+ Conduct and evaluate product testing results and determine compliance with internal standards and applicable regulations.

+ Release compliant product from hold status using the computerized inventory management system and document all decisions accurately.

+ Inspect and verify the sanitary condition of processing lines, fillers, tanks, and overall production areas, including conducting ATP swabbing and visual inspections.

+ Validate vitamin additions and batching sheets for processing departments to ensure correct formulation and documentation.

+ Maintain cleanliness and organization of laboratory work areas, equipment, and tools in accordance with sanitation and GMP standards.

+ Communicate openly and effectively with the Quality Control team, production personnel, and other departments to share test results, concerns, and recommendations.

+ Conduct bacteria and shelf-life testing on fresh and stressed samples and document results in a timely and accurate manner.

+ Maintain the laboratory logbook and Hold/Disposition Log for the assigned shift, updating entries as testing and product status change.

+ Log and send Certificates of Analysis (COAs) upon completion of required testing.

+ Perform Titratable Acidity (TA) tests using all required methods and record results according to procedures.

+ Conduct allergen testing as required and document findings in accordance with food safety protocols.

+ Perform sterile sampling of tanks and report results promptly to appropriate personnel.

+ Complete and report product testing using tally sheets and Product Testing Records, including microbiological reports.

+ Perform cryoscope testing on milk products and interpret results to verify product integrity.

+ Verify that product labels are correct and compliant with specifications before release.

+ Conduct external quality assessment (EQA) testing as required.

+ Complete shelf-life sensory testing and participate in required annual sensory training.

+ Perform butterfat and solids testing using appropriate laboratory equipment and methods.

+ Conduct product sterility testing on samples received into the laboratory and document outcomes.

+ Update logs and results for Product Hold and Disposition, follow up on held product, and support timely resolution of product status.

+ Utilize the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to enter, verify, and review analytical, sensory, and microbiological test results.

+ Achieve assigned goals in production support, safety, quality, performance, and cost effectiveness.

+ Identify and report mechanical malfunctions to help improve productivity and equipment capability, and collaborate with operators to resolve concerns when appropriate.

+ Comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and all plant policies, rules, and regulations.

+ Provide assistance and support to all areas in the production facility as assigned by the supervisor or lead, including learning key production areas such as fillers, forklifts, and production lines.

+ Gain competence in line circuits and learn to verify that proper hookups are made throughout the facility.

+ Cover breaks, lunches, and other staffing needs as assigned by the supervisor or lead.

+ Remain compliant with all legal requirements related to dairy processing and safety on the assigned shift and promptly report concerns to the supervisor or lead.

+ Work safely at all times, report safety concerns promptly, and take appropriate corrective…