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Dairy Farmers of America

Lab Technician

Dairy Farmers of America, Turlock, California, United States, 95382

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Shift:

11:00pm to 7:30 am

Rotating Days Off

General Purpose Performs laboratory tests (chemical, physical, organoleptic, and microbiological) according to prescribed standards on in-process and finished food products and ingredients in a food production laboratory. Makes decisions based on test results for compliance to specifications, when additional evaluations are necessary, and when products cannot ship to customers. Conducts quality assurance inspections as needed. Works closely with production staff to ensure quality and food safety during manufacturing.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment such as dairy analyzer, NIR analyzer, microwave, pH meter, chloride analyzer, scales, autoclave, thermometers, etc., and perform simple repairs as needed

Test and evaluate In‑Process and Finished products for moisture, fat, salt, and pH or other components utilizing lab equipment

Test and evaluate Finished cheese products for body, texture, organoleptic, and performance characteristics over the shelf life of the product, including pizza melt tests

Evaluate ingredient, product, and packaging compliance to internal and customer specifications, determining acceptability

Collect various samples from different locations and environments throughout the plant, following aseptic sampling techniques

Prepare samples for microbial testing, interpret and report results

Accurately and promptly record test results on standardized forms, computer database, SAP or LIM systems; release batches and complete other transactions within these systems

Work with the plant "Hold and Release" program to ensure potential issues are identified and products are held pending further evaluations

Communicate test results to production staff and assist in developing and documenting corrective actions

Alert management staff to issues that require immediate action, utilizing authority to halt production activities for food‑safety related issues when necessary

Conduct inspections of the production and packaging areas and assist department supervisors in monitoring food safety, quality, and GMP compliance

Monitor sanitation, inspect equipment, and take swabs to determine that cleaning methods are effective

Act as the first point of contact, answering the phones in a professional manner during non‑business hours

Maintain safe working conditions for employees and comply with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues; 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

Attend required training and participate in company programs supporting 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. Other duties may be assigned as required

Pay

Competitive pay – $24.42 to $28.45 per hour based on experience

Rate includes $1.00 shift differential for hours worked between 6 PM and 6 AM

Paid overtime

Sign‑On Bonus $1,500.00

BENEFITS

Medical

Dental

Vision

401k employer match

Life insurance – company paid

AD&D, STD and LTD – company paid

144 hours of paid vacation

Paid holidays

Paid sick time

Minimum Requirements Education and Experience

Must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent

Preferred: have an A.A. degree or equivalent coursework or a minimum of two (2) years of experience in an analytical laboratory (food manufacturing lab preferred)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Must have basic math skills

Must be able to follow written and verbal directions

Must be able to prioritize tasks and work independently

Must be able to push, pull, and lift up to 50 lbs.

Must have effective verbal and written English language communication skills

Must be able to work all shifts, weekends, and holidays

Must be able to work with Microsoft Office software (Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint)

Must be able to learn required SAP transactions within an agreed‑upon time frame and execute successfully

An Equal Opportunity Employer

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