Quality Technician

Lactalis Canada; Lethbridge; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading dairy company in Lethbridge is seeking a Quality Technician to oversee product testing and ensure compliance with food quality standards. The ideal candidate will possess a degree in Food Science and have experience in analytical and microbiological testing. This position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career advancement.

Benefits

4 Weeks of Vacation

Benefits starting day 1

Tuition reimbursement plan

Qualifications

• 2-3 years’ experience in a dairy food lab.
• Knowledge of analytical and microbiological testing for dairy products.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Ensure products meet food and quality specifications.
• Conduct root cause analysis and determine corrective actions.
• Plan and supervise various audits.

Skills

Analytical Testing

Microbiological Testing

Problem Solving

Communication

Education

College diploma or university degree in Food Science

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word & Excel)

SAP

Job description

Overview

Position: Quality Technician - relief shift

Location: Lethbridge

Reporting To: Quality Manager

About Us

Lactalis Canada – where we take pride in being recognized as one of Forbes' 2022 top employers. Our journey revolves around enhancing the lives of Canadians through a rich variety of dairy delights, including brands such as Black Diamond Cheese, Lactantia Milk, Astro Yogourt, Balderson Cheese, and Cheestrings. Our products grace the shelves of an incredible 94% of Canadian households. With a 140-year legacy driven by innovation and unwavering quality, we’re seeking like-minded individuals to join us in shaping our next chapter.

The opportunity

As a member of the Quality Team, the Quality Technician is responsible for all aspects of product testing and monitoring of the production environment quality to ensure products meet food and quality specifications. Duties are performed through the use of equipment, auditing techniques, inspection, and testing methods. In addition, responsible for HACCP and QSL program support, CCP verification, and documentation management.

Note: This position will require shift flexibility to cover vacations, holidays, etc. for day, afternoon, and night shifts, including weekends (if required).

The attributes we are looking for

• Perform analytical and microbiological, chemistry, and sensorial testing and analysis of in-process and finished product samples according to approved standard operating procedures. Record and evaluate test data and notify the Quality Manager of any deviations from the prescribed product specifications. Conduct root cause analysis and determine the necessary corrective action.
• Conduct screening and monitoring tests on raw milk upon receipt where applicable.
• Plan, supervise and monitor FSSC, CFIA, Organic, Kosher and customer audits.
• Plan, supervise and monitor corporate internal audits, as well as joint internal audits.
• Act as a contact person between the CFIA, FSSC, Organic, Kosher and the plant.
• Perform an annual reassessment of HACCP and FSSC quality systems and prerequisite programs.
• Perform internal audits on various plant programs and support QSL and HACCP documentation management. Participate with the Quality Manager in implementing new standard requirements.
• Administer the plant’s Environmental Monitoring and Water Quality programs (sampling, testing, recording and evaluating data) in compliance with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and/or Ministry of the Environment operational requirements.
• Organize and conduct shelf-life evaluation of specified products.
• Perform preventative maintenance and calibration of laboratory and plant analytical equipment.
• Organize, test and communicate test results for various product trials that require chemical or microbiological testing.
• Monitor the release of finished product and ensure nonconforming product is not released in accordance with PQMS program and procedures.
• Perform administrative duties such as maintaining records, forms and logs including computer databases, and performing regular inventory checks and providing the Quality Manager with a list of required supplies.
• Participate in Health & Safety Program where applicable.

Qualifications

• College diploma or university degree in Food Science
• Two (2) to three (3) years’ experience in a dairy food lab
• Knowledge of analytical and microbiological testing with respect to dairy food products and ability to problem solve
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Organizational and time management skills
• Good communication skills
• Proficient with standard office computer technology such as Lotus Notes, Microsoft Office (Word & Excel), as well as business systems such as SAP
• Knowledge of HACCP, PQMS and GMP policies and procedures

What Lactalis will offer

Lactalis Canada believes in rewarding its people with the following comprehensive benefits package and perks:

• A Competitive Base Salary
• A Performance-Based Bonus System
• 4 Weeks of Vacation
• Benefits starting day 1
• A Pension Program with an Employer Match at 100% of up to 6%
• Tuition reimbursement plan of up to $3,000/year
• A Volunteer Day to give back to your community
• Learning and Development opportunities
• A commitment to internal career advancement with potential for international mobility

ESG and DEI commitments

Our ESG commitment: Our Environmental, Social, and Governance roadmap drives our sustainability mission. We aim to positively impact communities and the planet by enabling stakeholders including our people, consumers, customers, suppliers, dairy farmers, government, and industry partners to have a positive impact on the wellbeing of our communities and the planet through all that we do.

At Lactalis Canada, we value our employees as catalysts for positive change. Together, we will create a sustainable future, promote belonging, and make a lasting impact on the world.

Our commitment to DEI: We strive to amplify diverse voices, invite personal and professional growth, and embrace everyone’s true selves. We are committed to crafting an environment that genuinely welcomes all, reflecting the richness of our people and communities. If you require accommodation due to a disability, please inform our Talent Acquisition team – confidentiality will be maintained.

Note: Lactalis Canada does not conduct credit or background checks through LinkedIn. If required, we will contact you after signing a Job Offer.