What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lab Tech position at UNC Dairy?
Join a team that nourishes life from farm to table! Upstate Niagara Cooperative, proudly owned by 200 local family farms, is one of America’s largest and most stable dairy cooperatives. Guided by farmer- and employee-led values, we process and market high-quality milk, yogurt, dips, sour cream, cottage cheese, and more under our trusted brands: Upstate Farms®, Bison®, Milk for Life®, and Intense Milk®. Here, you’ll support sustainable farming, strong communities, and the mission to deliver fresh, local dairy to families every day.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform microbiological, chemical, and physical testing on:
- Incoming raw materials
- Work-in-process samples
- Finished products
- Accurately document and maintain all testing records
- Follow established QA procedures and protocols
- Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and company policies
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field (with chemistry and microbiology coursework)
OR
Minimum of 4 years of laboratory experience - Strong math, communication, and computer skills
- Ability to work independently and within a team
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in food testing or dairy industry
- Knowledge of:
- Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
- Statistical Process Control (SPC) plating
Additional Requirements
- Ability to obtain and maintain NYS Department of Agriculture licenses (Direct Microscopic Count, Drug Residue/Charm SL, Milk Receiver)
- Willingness to work varied shifts, weekends, and holidays
Compensation & Benefits
This is a union position offering:
- Health, dental, vision, and prescription insurance
- Life insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Regular standing, walking, bending, and reaching
- Ability to lift up to 55 lbs regularly and up to 100 lbs occasionally
- Exposure to cold environments (below 40°F), wet conditions, and production equipment
- Work with cleaning chemicals (e.g., sodium hydroxide, phosphoric acid) using required PPE
- Moderate noise levels (hearing protection required in designated areas)
Work Schedule
- Variable workweek; shift work required
- Includes weekends and holidays
Condition of Employment
Adherence to all company policies, safety requirements, and federal, state, and local regulations is required.
Pay: $31.14/hr.*
*The hourly rate as indicated in the CBA. The posted pay rate reflects just one component of our total rewards package. Other components of the total rewards package may include participation in group health and/or dental insurance, retirement plan, paid time away from work, and paid holidays.
Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc. is committed to equal employment opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic.
Salary : $31