Lab Technician

Laboratory Technician

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.

• 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 actions to maintain a safe environment.
• Report food safety issues, initiate appropriate actions, and support SQF…