Milk Component Technician

Mérieux NutriSciences•Amarillo, TX

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Milk Component Technician performs analysis of dairy samples and obtains accurate results in a timely manner. The role includes preparing and receiving samples, verifying sample information, entering data, conducting analyses, preparing controls and verification samples, and completing quality-control tasks. The technician ensures instruments operate properly, follows Standard Operating Procedures, reports results according to client requirements and producer specifications, and maintains and calibrates equipment. The position also involves preparing materials for daily analysis, storing samples after testing, using the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and participating in laboratory safety, quality, and continuous-improvement programs. The incumbent is authorized to identify and document departures from the quality system or test procedures and is expected to act ethically and in accordance with the Code of Conduct. The position works under general supervision from the department supervisor, toward goals and targets based on sample load. Senior technicians perform daily verification of results and provide input on unique or difficult procedural problems. Testing must be completed within a day to avoid delaying client results. Work hours vary with sample load and include weekends. The job is based in a temperature-controlled, properly lit laboratory in Amarillo, Texas.

Requirements

Basic knowledge of Infrared Milk Analysis procedures obtained through state licensing procedures in Infrared Milk Analysis techniques.
Knowledge of equipment and proper instrument operation to ensure accurate analysis.
General knowledge of a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to process client data.
Basic knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and practices.
Fluent spoken and written English.
Familiarity with a keyboard and basic data-entry skills.
Ability to accurately test samples within specified time constraints and meet sample-load schedules.
Ability to assess whether proper methods were followed and to troubleshoot routine analysis or equipment problems.

Responsibilities

Prepare samples for testing, including receiving them, verifying information accuracy, and entering data.
Perform added-water samples as directed by sample specifications.
Prepare standard controls and verification samples and complete quality-control tasks to verify accurate testing.
Ensure instruments are operating properly and analyze samples according to Standard Operating Procedures.
Report results in accordance with client requirements and producer specifications.
Maintain equipment in proper operating order and calibrate it according to specifications.
Prepare materials for daily analysis and store samples after analysis is completed.
Maintain knowledge of and use the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) required for job responsibilities.
Participate in laboratory safety programs to maintain a safe and healthy working environment.
Support corporate quality and continuous-improvement processes.
Identify departures from the quality system or test procedures and document observations through the prescribed complaint system.
Perform other related tasks as needed.
Retrace sample information when client data is inaccurate or misinterpreted, and help troubleshoot equipment or procedural issues.