Plant Lab Technician - Block 2 - PM Shift

Grande Cheese Co Limited • Juda, WI

113d • $23

About The Position

Grande Cheese Company is a family owned enterprise built on a tradition, quality and outstanding performance. We are dedicated to our cultural pride, professional excellence and to the dignity and respect of our Associates. Grande operates in a High Performance Work Team (HPWT) structure. A HPWT is an Associate inspired and led journey of continuous growth and improvement to foster Grande Mission and Culture. We strive to empower Associates to develop their knowledge and skills through our Skill Block model. In this model, Associates are assessed and placed into a “skill block” that identifies and aligns with their abilities and knowledge within a specific job area. Along with possessing and maintaining knowledge of those skills, the following describes the overall duties, responsibilities and expectations, encompassing all skill levels, of this position. Not all duties may be required to be performed until the necessary skills are attained. Plant Lab Technicians perform laboratory tests on various products including dairy and environmental samples. Responsible for providing accurate test results using predetermined, approved methods of analysis and ensuring that results are communicated to our internal customers in a timely and efficient manner. Participate in various internal and external Quality programs, such as SQF and internal auditing, with activities such as data analysis, environmental monitoring, calibration, lab inventory, SOP development, RCA/CAPA investigations, and documentation reviews.

Requirements

• High School or GED required.
• One (1) or more years of prior lab experience and ability to demonstrate knowledge of proper laboratory techniques, whether by job experience or prior education, is strongly preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Associate Degree in Chemistry, Microbiology or other related discipline preferred.
• Good analytical, math, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong computer skills in MS Office Suite (e.g. Word, Excel) preferred.
• Self-organization skills.
• Ability to read and use equipment manuals.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical and/or micro lab tests which may include moisture and salt analysis, butterfat, proteins, total solids, pH, titratable acidity, various bacteriological testing, inhibitory substances, sample preparation, and other tests as directed.
• Follow test procedures using reference methods, such as AOAC or Standard Methods for the Examination of Dairy Products, and others as required.
• Prepare samples to send to corporate lab or third-party labs as needed.
• Commission, adjust, and operate laboratory equipment and instruments such as microscopes, pH meter, protein analysis equipment, milk/whey/cheese component analysis equipment, automated titration equipment, laboratory balances and other equipment.
• Perform calibration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of laboratory equipment as needed.
• Maintain a functional and clean work area. Clean, wash, and store equipment and glassware in an organized and sanitary manner.
• Responsibilities may include water or isogrid collection, air sampling, and environmental swabbing for Listeria, Salmonella, and Cronobacter.
• Swab equipment for sanitation verification to include clean equipment and end of day.
• Conduct pre-operational inspections for plant processes as needed.
• Complete entry of results into databases (Labware, D365) and effectively communicate test results.
• Assist with finished product releases; may act as back-up for finished product releases in absence of Quality Specialist.
• May participate in facility GMP internal audits.
• May provide coaching and recommendations to facility Associates and visitors to correct issues.
• May assist with CARES investigation, Quality incident reports, and CAPA.
• Collaborate with the management team to find new and creative ways to maximize job efficiency, cost containment and reduction efforts, streamline documentation processes, implement and utilize new technology, and/or improve information.
• Follow all regulatory, safety, standard operating procedures, good manufacturing practices (GMPs) and good laboratory practices (GLPs).
• Follow all company policies and procedures.
• Provide backup relief as needed.
• Obtain & renew licenses/certifications required for this role in a timely manner.

Benefits

• $3 Night shift premium (6pm - 6am) and $2.25 Weekend shift premium (Saturday and Sunday shifts).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Industry: Food Manufacturing
• Education Level: High school or GED