Quality Lab Technician

The Quality Technician supports a dairy manufacturing facility that produces milk, flavored milks, and cultured dairy products by performing routine testing on in-process and finished products to ensure they meet established food safety and quality standards. This role focuses on laboratory testing, accurate documentation, and close collaboration with production and quality teams to maintain consistent product quality and regulatory compliance.

• Collect in-process and finished product samples from the production line to verify that quality and safety standards are consistently met.

• Perform basic analytical testing, including pH measurements, wet chemistry techniques, and basic microbiological testing on dairy products.

• Use laboratory equipment and pipetting techniques accurately to conduct analyses and generate reliable test results.

• Document and record all test results clearly and accurately in accordance with company procedures and applicable regulatory standards.

• Support other technicians by assisting with daily lab activities and contributing to efficient lab operations and workflow.

• Participate in organoleptic (taste) testing of dairy products as part of overall quality evaluation and product assessment.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment by following good laboratory practices and housekeeping standards.

• Follow standard operating procedures and quality protocols to ensure consistent testing practices and data integrity.

• Collaborate with production personnel to communicate test results, support troubleshooting, and help resolve quality-related issues.

• Demonstrate a quality-focused mindset and a long-term commitment to building a career in food quality and safety.

• Bachelors degree in a science-related field such as Biology, Chemistry, Food Science, or a closely related discipline preferred.

• Quality control and quality assurance mindset with strong attention to detail.

• Basic understanding of laboratory practices, including safe handling of samples and equipment, or a strong willingness to learn.

• Comfort working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while managing multiple tasks and priorities.

• Ability to follow standard operating procedures precisely and maintain accurate records.

• Comfort with consuming dairy products as part of organoleptic (taste) testing for product evaluation.

• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with both laboratory and production teams.

• Interest in building a long-term career in quality, food safety, or food science within a manufacturing setting.

• Prior laboratory or quality experience in food, beverage, or manufacturing environments is a plus but not required; entry-level candidates are welcome.

• Experience or coursework in food safety, food science, or related disciplines is beneficial.

• Familiarity with wet chemistry techniques, pH testing, and basic microbiological methods is advantageous.

• Comfort using laboratory equipment and pipetting techniques to perform routine analyses.

• Demonstrated ability to be quality minded, reliable, and committed to continuous learning.

• Ability to build positive working relationships and communicate clearly with a relatively new team.

• Openness to working 2nd shift hours and maintaining consistent attendance.

This role is primarily based in a laboratory within a dairy manufacturing facility that produces milk, flavored milks, and cultured dairy products. The Quality Technician works closely with a relatively new and collaborative team, where clear communication and an easygoing, professional demeanor are important. While most tasks take place in the lab, the role also requires regularly going out onto the production floor to collect samples and interact with production staff.

The environment is fast paced and production-oriented, with exposure to typical food manufacturing conditions such as chilled areas, processing equipment, and active production lines. The position follows 2nd shift hours, and the dress code aligns with standard food manufacturing and laboratory expectations, including appropriate hygiene and safety attire

This is a Contract position based out of O Fallon, IL.

The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $22.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant…