Lab Tech - Q&A; Night Shift

Description

Cass Clay Creamery/Kemps, a subsidiary of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), is looking for a qualified Overnight Laboratory Tech to join our team at our onsite Quality and Assurance Laboratory. See all qualifying requirements prior to applying. Online resumes accepted until filled.

$24.16/hour. This position is full‑time (day shift – including every other weekend) and follows a standard 2/2/3 schedule with rotating 12‑hour shifts from 6:00 pm to 6:30 am.

Week 1:
Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday
Week 2:
Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday – then begin Week 1 again. Every other weekend rotation includes guaranteed overtime and must be able to work holidays, weekends, and occasional overnights.

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.

• Perform receiving lab duties including raw milk testing and sample collection.
• Evaluate raw material and finished product test results for acceptance based upon established criteria.
• Complete entry into the computer systems and generate requested reports.
• Perform testing using the Near Infra‑red methods, cryoscope, microscope, 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, and condensed milk, and products utilizing the Babcock test method and moisture analyzer.
• 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 are not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required.

Requires a minimum of a two‑year applied science degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, or Microbiology.

• 3 years continuous experience in a food laboratory or similar role desired.
• Certification and/or License.
• Required to obtain and maintain other certifications and/or licenses for continued employment.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems.
• Skill in proficient computer usage.
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Able to work in collaboration effectively and foster good teamwork.
• Able to follow directions and meet deadlines.
• Able to adapt and manage to change effectively.
• Able to work with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Able to perform tasks and duties without constant supervision.
• Able to read, write, and speak English.