Dairy Lab, Program Manager

csusystem; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 55,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Colorado State University is seeking a Dairy Lab Manager to oversee scheduling, operations, regulatory compliance and maintenance of the dairy lab at CSU Spur in Denver, CO. The role supports dairy manufacturers with research and production, and contributes to courses, K-12 enrichment, and the development of a creamery program.

You will lead buildout, equipment validation, and procurement; manage lab administration, client contracts, and scheduling; operate the lab with calendar management,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, environmental science, or related field.
• Experience with regulatory compliance, quality assurance, and SOP development in lab or food production settings.
• Preferred: dairy or food production lab operations management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee lab buildout, equipment validation, and procurement planning.
• Manage lab administration, contracts, scheduling, and inventory.
• Operate and maintain the dairy lab, calendar management, sanitation, trials and production runs.
• Support sensory studies, product development, and event support.

Skills

Regulatory compliance

Quality assurance

SOP development

Lab operations management

Vendor & client relationship

Sensory studies

Education

Bachelor's degree in food science/chemistry/environmental science/industrial technology

Tools

GMP knowledge

Sanitation protocols

Equipment maintenance knowledge

Job description

Job Description

Position Summary: Dairy lab manager will oversee the scheduling, operations, regulatory compliance and maintenance of the dairy lab located at CSU Spur in Denver, CO. The lab manager will support small and large dairy manufacturers with research and production as well as courses, k-12 enrichment and developing a creamery program.

Essential Job Duties

• Finalize the lab buildout, including equipment validation, construction management, and specification of any remaining equipment needs.
• Manage lab administration, including serving as legal liaison for client contracts, scheduling lab use, and ordering supplies and ingredients.
• Operate and maintain the dairy lab, including calendar management, equipment upkeep, supporting client intake and client trials and production runs, and pre- and post-production sanitation.
• Support broader FIC needs, including sensory testing, product development projects, general upkeep of FIC equipment and analytical instruments, and various event support.

Conditions of Employment

• Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required of all new hires).
• Valid driver's license by employment start date.
• Authorized to work in the United States by employment start date.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• This position requires infrequent travel and flexibility to work early mornings, late nights, and occasional weekends.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, environmental science, industrial technology, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Demonstrated experience in regulatory compliance, quality assurance, and standard operating procedure development in a laboratory, food production, or environmental health and safety setting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience managing dairy or food production laboratory operations.
• Experience serving as a liaison with regulatory agencies (e.g., Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment).
• Experience developing and implementing Good Manufacturing Practices and sanitation protocols.
• Background in vendor and client relationship management, including contract or supply chain coordination.
• Experience executing sensory studies.
• Working knowledge of plumbing and electrical systems for equipment maintenance.

Salary Range

$55,000- $60,000

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.