Laboratory Technician

SHIFT

• Day Shift 
• Subject to change according to business needs.

BENEFITS

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Life Insurance, FSA, Supplemental, Vacation, Holiday Pay, Personal Time Off (PTO), and 401k.
• Subject to applicable eligibility and waiting periods.

POSITION SUMMARY:

We are looking for a qualified individual who will provide key support in the Quality Department. This includes performing antibiotic testing, raw milk component testing, finished product testing, environmental monitoring testing, water testing, and other testing as assigned. The Laboratory Technician completes data collection and entry, assists with special projects, files paperwork, conducts internal audits, and maintains calibrations on testing equipment. This individual will be expected to actively participate with the team and assist in creating a positive work environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, DUTIES AND PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conducts prompt and accurate tests that support timely reports.
• Collects and organizes samples for testing.
• Performs chemical, physical and biological testing on raw materials, in process, and finished products.
• Maintains and supports the Corrective Action Program, Laboratory records in accordance with regulatory agencies requirements, as well as Appendix N and Section 6 State testing requirements.
• Submits regulatory records for review by the Laboratory Supervisor.
• Demonstrates and conducts necessary rechecks and product screening.
• Takes weekly supply inventory.
• Cleans and maintains laboratory equipment and facilities.
• Performs testing and maintains equipment calibrations per schedule.
• Follows all established policies and procedures, GLP’s, SOP’s, SSOP’s, OSHA, Safety Regulations, and GMP Laboratory Methods, and Work Instructions.
• Complies with GLP (Good Lab Practices) program.
• Maintains security and confidentiality of information within the Quality Department.
• Performs other tasks as assigned.

POSITION SPECIFICATIONS/QUALIFICATIONS:

Requirements:

• Must possess a valid state driver’s license, proof of liability insurance, and maintain an acceptable Department of Motor Vehicle record in accordance with company insurance requirements.
• Ability to drive from one location to another throughout work week.

Education:

• Required: High school diploma/GED or equivalent work-related experience.

Experience:

• Preferred: 1-2 years' experience as laboratory technician or equivalent experience.
• Dairy laboratory experience is a plus.

Skills and Knowledge:

• Ability to read basic operating instructions. 
• Must be able to understand procedures, interpret data, and communicate effectively.
• Highly self-motivated individual who is comfortable working individually while managing multiple tasks efficiently to meet defined deadlines.
• Must have an established work record that depicts he or she is reliable and adds value to an organization through service and acceptance of responsibility.
• Demonstrates sound communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Strong attention to detail required.
• Able to work in teams effectively and encourage a positive work environment.
• Demonstrates ability to effectively trouble-shoot and use problem solving skills.
• Demonstrates ability to ensure all documentation is timely, accurate, and complete.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new concepts, accept and embrace change, and be actively involved in business operations.
• Sound Microsoft Office skills, including proficiency in Excel.

Equipment:

• Must be able to operate all lab machines such as microwave ovens, 5 Hour ovens, Fume hood, Raw milk analytical testing equipment, Finished product analytical equipment, Microscope, pH meters, scales, and other standard dairy laboratory testing equipment.
• Must also be able to operator basic computer, phone, fax machine, calculator, and copy machine.

Physical Requirements:

• Standing: Must be able to stand for long periods of time to perform necessary testing.
• Repetitive motions: Substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
• Reaching: Extending hands and arms in any direction.
• Pushing: Using upper extremities to press against something with steady force to thrust forward, downward or outward.
• Pulling: Using upper extremities to exert force to draw, drag, haul or tug objects in a sustained motion.
• Kneeling: Bending legs at knee to come to a rest on knee or knees occasionally.
• Crouching: Bending the body downward and forward by bending leg and spine.
• Subject to up to at least 92db’s on an occasional basis.
• Lifting: Able to lift up to 50lbs occasionally.
• Will require lifting, mobility and stamina to complete assignments.

To apply for this position please visit our website at www.idahomilkproducts.com and click the JOIN OUR TEAM link in the top right-hand corner.