Quality Technician - 3rd Shift

Quality Technician – 3rd ShiftThe Quality Technician plays a key role in ensuring that dairy products, including milk, flavored milks, and cultured products such as cottage cheese, consistently meet strict food safety and quality standards. Working primarily in the laboratory within a fast-paced manufacturing environment, this role focuses on routine testing of in-process and finished products, accurate documentation of results, and support of overall lab operations. Great for entry level candidates wanting to gain experience and be a part of the food manufacturing industry.ResponsibilitiesCollect and test in-process and finished product samples to verify compliance with established quality and food safety standards.Perform basic analytical testing, including pH measurements, wet chemistry techniques, and basic microbiological testing.Use laboratory equipment and pipetting techniques accurately to conduct analyses and obtain reliable results.Document and record test results thoroughly in accordance with company procedures and regulatory requirements.Support other technicians by assisting with daily lab activities and contributing to efficient lab workflow and operations.Participate in organoleptic (taste) testing of dairy products as part of the overall quality evaluation process.Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment, following all standard operating procedures.Follow detailed instructions and standard operating procedures to ensure consistency and precision in testing.Occasionally enter the production plant area to collect air samples and other environmental quality checks as needed.Essential SkillsStrong quality control and quality assurance mindset with a focus on accuracy and compliance.Bachelor's degree in a science-related field such as Biology, Chemistry, Food Science, or a closely related discipline (preferred).Basic understanding of laboratory practices, including handling samples, using lab equipment, and following test procedures, or a strong willingness to learn.Ability to follow standard operating procedures consistently and maintain high attention to detail in all tasks.Comfort working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and adapting to changing priorities.Comfort with 3rd shift hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.Ability to work collaboratively with other technicians and support a cohesive team environment.Must be comfortable consuming dairy products as part of product evaluation and taste testing.Additional Skills & QualificationsPrior laboratory or quality experience in a manufacturing or food production setting is a plus but not required, making this role suitable for entry-level candidates.Familiarity with basic microbiological techniques and wet chemistry methods is beneficial.Experience with documenting test results in electronic or paper-based systems is an advantage.Interest in food science, dairy production, or related fields is helpful for long-term growth in the role.Work EnvironmentThis position is based in a dairy manufacturing facility that produces milk, flavored milks such as chocolate and strawberry, and cultured dairy products including cottage cheese. The role is 3rd shift, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m., with initial training on first shift for approximately 2 to 4 weeks. About 90% of the time is spent in the laboratory working alongside four other technicians in a supportive, easygoing, and highly cohesive team environment. The remaining 10% of the time is spent in the plant area collecting air samples and performing environmental quality checks. The setting is fast-paced and production-focused, with an emphasis on safety, cleanliness, and adherence to procedures.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of O Fallon, IL.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $23.00 - $23.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in O Fallon, IL.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Sep 22, 2026. Actalent