Lab Technician

Dairy Farmers of America•Dallas, TX

About The Position

The Lab Technician performs product testing, sample setup, and quality assurance activities. The role tests and inspects products at various stages of batching and production, compiles and evaluates data to help maintain product quality and reliability, and uses gauges and other devices to verify that products meet standards. The technician must work accurately and with concentration to produce valid, timely test results and help ensure products meet food safety and quality standards. The position supports batch preparation and quality control through process inspection, sampling, evaluation, laboratory recordkeeping, reporting, and process monitoring. It also includes maintaining laboratory instruments and work areas, following applicable procedures and regulations, and supporting sanitation, food safety, and workplace safety requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent with food manufacturing, laboratory, food testing, quality assurance, or related work experience; alternatively, post-secondary education related to food science, biological science, or related sciences.
Familiarity with applicable laboratory equipment.
Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems.
Ability to use and understand calculations used for laboratory analysis.
Ability to follow laboratory procedures and state and federal regulations for applicable product testing.
Good recordkeeping skills.
Ability to follow directions and work accurately with attention to detail.
Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to collaborate, foster teamwork, and promptly share relevant information.
Ability to identify problems, find and implement appropriate solutions, and perform duties without constant supervision.
Ability to read, write, and speak English.

Nice To Haves

Up to one year of food manufacturing laboratory or quality assurance experience is preferred.
Certification and/or license may be required during employment, such as a Better Processing Certificate or state certification for antibiotic testing.

Responsibilities

Ensure batch preparation quality and perform quality control activities, including process inspection, sampling, and evaluation against specifications and standards.
Test incoming and outgoing products for suitability and compliance with applicable standards.
Set up, sort, and prepare samples, and clean up after testing.
Calibrate and maintain laboratory instruments as directed.
Immediately notify a supervisor of out-of-range values or variations from accepted operating or product-quality norms, and monitor quality problems or trends.
Maintain laboratory records and complete required paperwork and computer data entry accurately, clearly, completely, and on time, following standard operating procedures.
Prepare reports of test results.
Monitor or generate statistical information to maintain process control, and report it to the team leader or supervisor.
Participate in task meetings and suggest changes to tasks or equipment use to improve efficiency.
Clean the task area daily, perform detailed cleaning during Clean in Place (CIP), wash laboratory utensils and glassware, and assist with other cleanup activities.
Maintain safe working conditions and comply with state and federal health and safety regulations.
Follow good manufacturing practices (GMP) and corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements.
Perform other duties as assigned.