Lab Technician

Lab Technician

The Lab Technician supports the manufacture of dairy-related products by performing laboratory testing on production and finished product samples to determine compliance with regulatory requirements and internal quality standards. This role ensures customer, team member, and vendor satisfaction by accurately conducting microbiological, chemical, and sensory analyses, releasing compliant product, and maintaining rigorous sanitation and documentation practices within a fast-paced quality control environment.

Responsibilities include:

• Perform testing on production samples and finished product samples to determine compliance with FDA and state regulations as well as internal quality standards.
• Conduct and evaluate product testing results and determine whether products meet established specifications and standards.
• Release compliant product from hold status using the computerized inventory management system.
• Inspect and verify the sanitary condition of processing lines, fillers, tanks, and overall production areas, including ATP swabbing and visual inspections.
• Validate vitamin additions and batching sheets for processing departments to ensure accurate formulation and compliance.
• Conduct microbiological analyses, chemical analyses, and sensory testing for finished products, in-process materials, and incoming ingredients according to laboratory and operations schedules.
• Perform bacteria and shelf-life testing on fresh and stressed samples and document results accurately.
• Maintain laboratory logbooks and Product Hold/Disposition Logs for the assigned shift, updating entries and following up on product as needed.
• Log and send Certificates of Analysis (COAs) as testing is completed, ensuring timely and accurate communication of results.
• Complete Titratable Acidity (TA) tests using all required methods and record results in appropriate systems.
• Conduct allergen testing as required and report findings promptly to relevant stakeholders.
• Perform sterile sampling of tanks and report results in a timely manner to support product safety and quality decisions.
• Complete and report product testing using tally sheets and Product Testing Records, including microbiological reports.
• Perform cryoscope testing on milk products to verify product integrity and compliance.
• Verify that product labeling is accurate and compliant with applicable requirements.
• Conduct EQA (external quality assessment) testing as required and support continuous quality improvement initiatives.
• Complete shelf-life sensory testing and participate in annual sensory training to maintain evaluation skills.
• Perform butterfat and solids testing using appropriate laboratory equipment and methods.
• Conduct product sterility testing on samples received into the laboratory and document results.
• Utilize the LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) to enter, verify, and track analytical, sensory, and microbiological data.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of work areas and laboratory equipment, adhering strictly to sanitation practices.
• Communicate openly and effectively with other members of the Quality Control team and plant personnel, including clear communication between shifts and departments.
• Support SQF (Safe Quality Food) requirements by maintaining food safety and food quality standards and reporting food safety problems and initiating corrective actions as needed.
• Work safely at all times, promptly report safety concerns to supervisors or leads, and take corrective actions to ensure a safe environment.
• Achieve assigned goals related to production, safety, quality, performance, and cost in the laboratory and production support areas.
• Notify appropriate personnel of mechanical malfunctions to improve productivity and equipment capabilities and help identify opportunities for operators to assist in resolving concerns.
• Comply with GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), and all corporate and plant policies, rules, and regulations.
• Provide assistance and support to all areas in the production facility as assigned, and build competence on key production areas such as fillers, forklifts, and production lines.
• Gain competence in line circuits and learn to verify proper hookups are made within the facility.
• Cover breaks, lunches, and other staffing needs as assigned by supervisors or leads.
• Ensure work areas are sanitary and adhere strictly to all sanitation practices and standards.
• Report food safety issues and support food safety and food quality programs through accurate testing and documentation.
• Report to work at scheduled times and communicate tardiness or absences to the appropriate supervisor or manager in advance whenever possible.
• Report to work in a condition fit to perform all job duties safely and effectively.
• Comply with performance criteria, standards of conduct, and responsibilities as outlined in company policies and procedures.
• Maintain a safe work environment at all times, immediately report safety concerns, and take…