Lab Technician

Laboratory Technician Maintain laboratory and associated areas in an orderly and clean manner in accordance to 5S methodology, which is to create a clean orderly environment where there is a place for everything and everything is in its place. Perform sampling of raw milk, in-process, or finished products for analyses. Perform chemical, physical, and microbiological testing of in-process and finished products. Complete lab analytical testing records and monitor records for compliance/trending. Report non-compliant laboratory analytical testing results to the QA Manager (Plant Manager). Maintain laboratory records in a timely, accurate, and legible manner following laboratory best practices. Basic technical skills in analytical/scientific methods or operational processes to perform straightforward activities. Calibrate and maintain laboratory instrumentation per vendor recommendations and/or laboratory best practices. Perform preventive maintenance, function verification, and quality control tasks. Wash lab utensils and glassware. Receive, stock, and inventory lab supplies and reagents. Prepare and stock reagents and media. Prepare labeling of testing analysis samples to testing laboratories. Communicate inventory needs (Micro Supplies, Chemical Supplies for receiving lab). Maintain and verify accuracy of documents (i.e., Documentation Control – Record Retention- Sample Retention). Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues. Addresses defined and straightforward problems using existing standard operating procedures (SOP). Dedicate effort to safety as we expect every employee to leave work in the same condition as they arrived. Participate in weekly safety observation program. Participate in monthly GMP inspection program. Exhibit the values and ethics of Dairy Farmers of America through honesty, discretion, and sound judgement. Adhere to all DFA Quality, Safety, GLP, and GMP policies and procedures in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality and sanitation requirements; and report any nonconformity. Attend required training, including but not limited to, Safety, GMP, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP), and Safe Quality Foods (SQF). Become familiar with the FDA Good Manufacturing Practices and Pasteurized Milk Ordinance requirements for plant and laboratory operation. Aseptically complete weekly environmental surveillance sampling for salmonella and listeria per Corporate program. Submit samples to Merieux Labs for analysis. Complete weekly food contact sampling via quick-swabs and ATP. Complete monthly air monitoring sampling and complete documentation for program. Support Quality Plan Requirements and HACCP Program; assist in the monitoring of CQP's in facility. Demonstrate sound judgment in safeguarding customer, company, and vendor and employee information. Be responsible for the attainment of plant goals and objectives. Maintain a cooperative working relationship with customers, vendors, employees and peers. Works under close supervisor and according to explicit instructions, establishes protocols, and procedures. The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required. An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans. Education and Experience: High school diploma or equivalent. Up to 1 year of food manufacturing laboratory or quality assurance experience preferred. Certification and/or License – Industry Analyst certification for antibiotic testing required during course of employment. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Familiarity with all applicable laboratory equipment. Able to use Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems. Able to use and understand calculations used for laboratory analysis. Able to follow laboratory procedures and state and federal regulations regarding the testing of applicable products. Able to keep good records (record keeping skill). Able to follow directions. Able to work with accuracy and attention to detail. Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing. Able to work in collaboration, foster good teamwork, and promptly share relevant information with others. Able to identify problems, take appropriate steps to find solutions to problems, and implement solutions. Able to perform task and duties without constant supervision. Must be able to read, write and speak English. Dairy Farmers of America