Lab Technician

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General Purpose:

Test all raw, intermediate, and finished products as well as collecting and testing environmental samples according to established procedures. Discover and prevent defects and improve quality. Work with a high degree of accuracy and concentration to produce valid test results in a timely manner.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform receiving lab duties including weighing trucks, observing sample collections, and preparation of receiving tickets.
• Evaluate truck shipments for acceptance based upon established criteria.
• Complete entry into the computer systems and generate requested reports.
• Perform testing using the Near Infra-red methods, scorch tests, acidity tests, sink work, and other appropriate lab equipment.
• Prepare chemical solutions and media required for laboratory testing. Sterilize equipment as needed.
• Perform butterfat and total solids tests on fluid milk; cream; condensed and sweetened condensed milk; and powdered products.
• Maintain lab records of samples, test results, and lab quality control measures in an up-to-date, legible, and accurate manner ensuring the accuracy of results.
• Certify that finished product is suitable for sale by meeting government and customer specifications. Ensure cleanliness and organization of the lab and the integrity of all testing results.
• Perform basic microbiology and environmental sampling as required.
• Dedicate effort to safety as we expect every employee to leave work in the same condition as they arrive.
• Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements.

• Exhibit the values and ethics of Dairy Farmers of America through honesty, discretion, and sound judgment.

• Adhere to all DFA Quality, Safety and GMP policies and procedures 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).
• 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.

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED)
• Prefer two year applied science degree in Food Science, Dairy Science or Microbiology
• 1 year experience in a food laboratory or similar role

Certification and/or License:

• Approved as a Pennsylvania Industry Analyst for Appendix N Testing Program or able to obtain within 45 days of employment. Participate in necessary programs annually to maintain approval.
• Able to obtain Pennsylvania Weighmaster license within 30 days of employment

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Able to read, write, and speak English