QA Micro Lab Technician

Join Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), the nation's largest dairy cooperative, where you'll be part of a team dedicated to ensuring the highest quality and safety standards in our food products. We're looking for a detail-oriented QA Micro Technician to support microbiological testing and quality systems at our Green Bay, WI plant on 1st shift.

Schedule:

• 1st Shift - Monday through Friday, 5:00 AM - 1:00 PM
• Occasional overtime based on business and production needs

Why Join DFA?

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  Competitive hourly pay starting at $23.00 per hour (including attendance incentive)

  
  
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  Full, comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401k with company match, and more

  
  
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  Paid time off and holiday pay

  
  
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  Opportunities for training, career growth, and professional development in a stable, team-oriented environment

  
  
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  Be part of a nationwide cooperative that brings quality products from our farmers to families across the country

  
  

Summary:

Under the direction of the Quality Assurance Manager, the QA Micro Lab Technician is responsible for performing and analyzing various tests related to production at the facility.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities, as management may deem necessary from time to time.

1. Perform microbiological tests, including standard plate count, yeast and mold, coliforms, E.coli, etc. on raw materials, finished products and environmental samples (equipment surfaces, air, water, etc.).
2. Perform allergen testing on raw materials, finished products, food-contact equipment, etc. to verify allergen control measures.
3. Read the plates, interpret and record results accurately in the appropriate logs.
4. Review and verify test results, identify out-of-specification findings and promptly communicate them to management staff.
5. Support root cause investigation and corrective actions in response to microbiological deviations.
6. Perform routine calibration, verification, and maintenance of laboratory equipment (e.g., incubators, autoclaves, pipettes, etc.)
7. Ensure laboratory cleanliness, organization, and compliance with Good Laboratory Practices.
8. Participate in proficiency testing programs and internal/external audits as needed.
9. Organize all lab results for regulatory and audit readiness.
10. Monitor and control laboratory inventory and place orders for all testing supplies.
11. Assist in GMP and Glass/Brittle Plastic inspections/audits.
12. Cross-train to be back up for Quality Assurance Technician (as needed).
13. Other miscellaneous tasks as requested.

Education/Experience:

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  Two-year technical degree with 1-2 years of lab experience, or high school diploma plus 2-3 years of experience

  
  
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  Background in cheese processing or food industry preferred

  
  
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  Certification from an accredited lab course (BRC, SQF, FSMA) preferred; must be completed within 12 months of employment if not already held

  
  

Skills & Competencies:

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  Effective with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and lab data systems

  
  
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  Strong attention to detail with the ability to read and interpret lab manuals, product specifications, and test results

  
  
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  Clear written and verbal communication skills, including professional email correspondence

  
  
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  Ability to lift/move up to 40 pounds occasionally

  
  
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  Strong problem-solving and organizational skills

  
  

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans