Quality Analytical Specialist

Requirements

Overview:

Lactalis Midwest Yogurt - Murfreesboro is a high performing, multi‑platform non‑union facility with over 300 employees leading the safe, high‑quality production of a wide range of dairy products across 13 production lines.

Quality Analytical Specialist will be responsible for multiple activities that provide technical assistance in the lab, including reading, understanding, and implementing Lactalis lab procedures, supporting and assessing routine testing (fat, protein & solids), equipment operation and preventive maintenance, monitoring the accuracy of equipment based on the analytical test results, statistical data analysis of raw materials, products and processes, and assisting with implementation of new testing procedures.

Key Accountabilities:

• Responsible for all aspects of food safety and quality as defined in plant and department procedures.
• Read, understand, and implement Lactalis lab procedures independently with minimal support.
• Support the Processing QE and Lab manager in analyzing variances and statistical deviations and use the information as input for reviewing the analytical processes.
• Understand data and detect trends related to raw material, in‑process, and finished product chemistry, microbiological and physical analyses.
• Measure statistical deviations and report issues promptly to reduce defects and errors, minimizing variation and increasing quality and efficiency.
• Meet weekly to review data and determine necessary adjustments; effectively report data over the week.
• Maintain bias and anchoring methods (drying oven for total solids, Gerber for fat, etc.).
• Calculate standard deviations and propose new testing and process improvements.
• Analyze and evaluate sample results from each step of production to determine if results fall within the expected range and troubleshoot testing when not.
• Generate reports and data analysis to calculate statistical deviations.
• Support Lab Manager with other tasks and special projects as assigned.
• Keep equipment and area clean and sterile.
• Maintain inventory of appropriate equipment necessary to carry out lab duties.
• Keep equipment operating by following instructions, troubleshooting breakdowns, maintaining supplies, performing preventive maintenance and calling for repairs.
• Maintain daily logs of tasks and equipment records, including calibrations and preventive maintenance.
• Complete additional projects by assisting the broader team through attendance and participation in group and project meetings.
• Promote self‑development by updating job knowledge, participating in educational opportunities and reading technical publications.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate degree or higher in Laboratory, Engineering, Life or Food Sciences.
• One to two years’ experience in a food/pharma lab performing analytical testing/quality evaluation in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong statistical knowledge.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to communicate with all levels of the organization, including presenting business information in a group setting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and working knowledge of data management systems (e.g. SAP).
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines within specified time constraints.
• Ability to operate in a team environment.
• Ability to adapt in a changing work environment.
• Ability to work schedule, overtime, off‑shifts and weekends as needed.
• Ability to be flexible with hours and travel for necessary training.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Laboratory, Engineering, Life or Food Sciences.
• Three to five years’ experience in a food/pharma lab performing analytical testing/quality evaluation in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of GLP and ISO (22000, 17025) is strongly preferred.

At Lactalis, we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards Program with a variety of affordable benefits and coverage options. We support insurance costs significantly, contribute generously to retirement plans, and offer Paid Time Off from day one. We are committed to your professional growth, providing training and development opportunities, including Education Reimbursement. Join us and grow your career.

Lactalis is an equal employment opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against applicants with regard to any legally‑recognized basis including, but not limited to: veteran status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, and physical or mental disabilities. Further, any division of the Company that is an affirmative action employer will comply with all related legal obligations.