Dairy Lab, Program Manager

Colorado State University; United States; On-site; USD 55,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

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

The position requires management of lab buildout, administration, client trials, sanitation, and equipment upkeep, with flexibility for early mornings, late nights, and occasional weekends.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field; experience in regulatory compliance, quality assurance, and SOP development.

Responsibilities

• Finalize the lab buildout, including equipment validation and specification of remaining needs.
• Manage lab administration, including contracts, scheduling, and procurement.
• Operate and maintain the dairy lab, calendar management, equipment upkeep, client trials, and sanitation.
• Support broader FIC needs, including sensory testing, product development projects, and event support.

Skills

Lab management

Regulatory compliance

Quality assurance

SOP development

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

Analytical instruments

Laboratory equipment

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

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. Inspired by its land-grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world.