Find & Apply For Quality Inspector / Technician Jobs in El Monte, California

Job Title:

QA Lab Technician Job Type:

Full-time, Hourly Department:

Quality Assurance Job Summary:

Under minimal supervision, the QA Lab Technician ensures that all laboratory tests, analyses, and samples comply with guidelines established by Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP), Safe Quality Food (SQF), and company standard operating procedures. This role supports production across all aspects of the facility's food safety and food quality programs. Key Responsibilities Perform standard laboratory testing on incoming raw/silo milk, finished products, and production samples according to established QA procedures. Test incoming ingredients, including Brix, yeast, and mold testing on sweeteners where applicable. Accurately document, record, review, and report all test results in designated Excel spreadsheets and QA forms. Promptly report any out-of-specification results, process deviations, or food safety concerns to QA Management. Assist in preparing, reviewing, and handling Certificates of Analysis (COAs) and other QA records. Collect tank, line, filler, finished product, and environmental swabs (including pre-operational ATP swabbing) for microbiological and chemical evaluations. Assist production teams with start-up and changeover testing and documentation. Calibrate and verify laboratory and plant thermometers and other testing instrumentation. Conduct daily environmental and equipment temperature checks (incubators, antibiotic coolers, walk-in coolers, etc.). Issue and verify tanker seal numbers, receiving paperwork, and production documentation. Prepare laboratory control samples and coordinate third-party laboratory submissions. Autoclave distilled water, testing tools, and used microbiological media/Petrifilm prior to safe disposal. Maintain clean, organized, and sanitary lab work areas and walk-in coolers, ensuring floors are free of spills and slip hazards. Monitor lab supplies and reagents, manage inventory, and report equipment issues or supply shortages. Participate actively in plant teams and programs, including HACCP, SQF, and continuous improvement initiatives. Assist in training laboratory personnel on testing procedures, equipment, and protocols as needed.

Qualifications & Skills Education & Experience:

Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, or a related technical discipline; OR At least five (5) years of laboratory experience, preferably within food, dairy, or beverage manufacturing.

Knowledge & Certifications:

Hands-on experience with HACCP, GMPs, and Safe Quality Food (SQF) principles. Familiarity with SQF certification and audit processes is a strong plus.

Technical & Soft Skills:

Demonstrated competency operating and calibrating laboratory equipment. High attention to detail regarding data entry, reporting, and record-keeping. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook). Strong verbal and written communication skills. Work Environment & Physical Demands Primary work takes place within a clean, controlled laboratory setting. Regular access to dairy processing areas with exposure to wet environments, odors, machinery noise, and cold temperatures (walk-in coolers). Slip-resistant shoes and required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times in production areas.

Pay:

$20.00 - $32.00 per hour Expected hours: No less than 40.0 per week

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Application Question(s): How many years of experience do you have working in a quality assurance or testing laboratory, preferably within food, dairy, or beverage manufacturing? Do you hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, or a related technical discipline? Do you have hands-on experience working with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), HACCP, and Safe Quality Food (SQF) programs? Do you have experience performing microbiological testing (e.g., Petrifilm, plating) and environmental swabbing (e.g., ATP swabs)? Are you comfortable working in a manufacturing environment that includes cold temperatures (walk-in coolers), wet floors, and loud noise while wearing required PPE?

Work Location:

In person