Job Duties and ResponsibilitiesMaintain laboratory and associated areas in an orderly and clean manner in accordance to 5S methodology, which is to create a clean orderly environment where there is a place for everything and everything is in its placePerform sampling of raw milk, in-process, or finished products for analysesPerform chemical, physical, and microbiological testing of in-process and finished productsComplete lab analytical testing records and monitor records for compliance / trendingReport non-compliant laboratory analytical testing results to the QA Manager (Plant Manager)Maintain laboratory records in a timely, accurate, and legible manner following laboratory best practicesBasic technical skills in analytical/ scientific methods or operational processes to perform straightforward activitiesCalibrate and maintain laboratory instrumentation per vendor recommendations and/or laboratory best practicesPerform preventive maintenance, function verification, and quality control tasksWash lab utensils and glasswareReceive, stock, and inventory lab supplies and reagentsPrepare and stock reagents and mediaPrepare labeling of testing analysis samples to testing laboratoriesCommunicate inventory needs (Micro Supplies, Chemical Supplies for receiving lab)Maintain and verify accuracy of documents (i.e., Documentation Control - Record Retention- Sample Retention)Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issuesAddresses defined and straightforward problems using existing standard operating procedures (SOP)Dedicate effort to safety as we expect every employee to leave work in the same condition as they arrivedParticipate in weekly safety observation programParticipate in monthly GMP inspection programExhibit the values and ethics of Dairy Farmers of America through honesty, discretion, and sound judgementAdhere to all DFA Quality, Safety, GLP, and GMP policies and procedures in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality and sanitation requirements; and report any nonconformityAttend required training, including but not limited to, Safety, GMP, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP), and Safe Quality Foods (SQF)Become familiar with the FDA Good Manufacturing Practices and Pasteurized Milk Ordinance requirements for plant and laboratory operationAseptically complete weekly environmental surveillance sampling for salmonella and listeria per Corporateprogram. Submit samples to Merieux Labs for analysis.

Complete weekly food contact sampling via quick-swabs and ATP.Complete monthly air monitoring sampling and complete documentation for program.

Support Quality Plan Requirements and HACCP Program; assist in the monitoring of CQP's in facility.

Demonstrate sound judgment in safeguarding customer, company, and vendor and employee informationBe responsible for the attainment of plant goals and objectivesMaintain a cooperative working relationship with customers, vendors, employees and peersWorks under close supervisor and according to explicit instructions, establishes protocols, and procedures.

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. An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/VeteransEducation and ExperienceHigh school diploma or equivalentUp to 1 year of food manufacturing laboratory or quality assurance experience preferredCertification and/or License - Industry Analysist certification for antibiotic testingrequired during course of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesFamiliarity with all applicable laboratory equipmentAble to use Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systemsAble to use and understand calculations used for laboratory analysisAble to follow laboratory procedures and state and federal regulations regarding the testing of applicable productsAble to keep good records (record keeping skill)Able to follow directionsAble to work with accuracy and attention to detailAble to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writingAble to work in collaboration, foster good teamwork, and promptly share relevant information with othersAble to identify problems, take appropriate steps to find solutions to problems, and implement solutionsAble to perform task and duties without constant supervisionMust be able to read, write and speak English EEO/AA/Female/Minority/Disabled/Veteran