Job Duties and Responsibilities
Maintain 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 place
Perform sampling of raw milk, in-process, or finished products for analyses
Perform chemical, physical, and microbiological testing of in-process and finished products
Complete lab analytical testing records and monitor records for compliance / trending
Report 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 practices
Basic technical skills in analytical/ scientific methods or operational processes to perform straightforward activities
Calibrate and maintain laboratory instrumentation per vendor recommendations and/or laboratory best practices
Perform preventive maintenance, function verification, and quality control tasks
Wash lab utensils and glassware
Receive, stock, and inventory lab supplies and reagents
Prepare and stock reagents and media
Prepare labeling of testing analysis samples to testing laboratories
Communicate 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 issues
Addresses 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 arrived
Participate in weekly safety observation program
Participate in monthly GMP inspection program
Exhibit the values and ethics of Dairy Farmers of America through honesty, discretion, and sound judgement
Adhere 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 nonconformity
Attend 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 operation
Aseptically 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 information
Be responsible for the attainment of plant goals and objectives
Maintain a cooperative working relationship with customers, vendors, employees and peers
Works 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/Veterans
Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent
Up to 1 year of food manufacturing laboratory or quality assurance experience preferred
Certification and/or License - Industry Analysist certification for antibiotic testingrequired during course of employment.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Familiarity with all applicable laboratory equipment
Able to use Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
Able to use and understand calculations used for laboratory analysis
Able to follow laboratory procedures and state and federal regulations regarding the testing of applicable products
Able to keep good records (record keeping skill)
Able to follow directions
Able to work with accuracy and attention to detail
Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
Able to work in collaboration, foster good teamwork, and promptly share relevant information with others
Able to identify problems, take appropriate steps to find solutions to problems, and implement solutions
Able to perform task and duties without constant supervision
Must be able to read, write and speak English
EEO/AA/Female/Minority/Disabled/Veteran
