Lab Technician

Bongards; Bongards (MN); On-site; USD 37,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO

401(k) match

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Employee Assistance

Career growth

Job summary

Bongards Premium Cheese is hiring a Lab Technician for the Norwood Processing Facility in Norwood, MN. This day shift (7 am–3 pm, Mon–Fri) offers the opportunity to contribute to quality testing in a dairy-focused environment. You will perform daily lab tests (salt, moisture, fat), prepare samples, document results, enter data, and support QA technicians.

Some weekend/holiday work may be required. Ideal candidates have a high school diploma, strong arithmetic and reading skills, solid

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent with good arithmetic and reading skills.
• Strong organizational and communication abilities.
• Ability to perform computer data entry.
• Familiar with safe handling of chemicals and reagents.
• Report food safety and quality concerns to supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Conduct daily lab tests including salt, moisture, fat, and sample prep.
• Document test results and paperwork accurately.
• Enter data electronically and report results.
• Assist QA technicians as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Maintain lab paperwork.
• Operate hand grinder for sample prep.

Skills

Arithmetic

Reading

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Data entry

Chemical safety

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Corning Analyzer

Vacuum Oven

Convection Oven

Babcock

FOSS

FQ analyzers

Job description

Lab Technician – Norwood, MN
Be part of a legacy of excellence at Bongards Premium Cheese.

Who We Are:
Since 1908, Bongards has been a leader in the dairy industry. As one of the largest farmer-owned dairy cooperatives in the U.S., we process millions of pounds of milk daily while staying true to our roots—delivering unparalleled quality at every step. Our success is built upon our core values of teamwork, hard work, integrity in all that we do, customer focus and a passion for excellence.

At Bongards, we foster a culture where every voice matters, employees are empowered, and teamwork drives excellence.

Lab Technician Details

Shift: Day Shift – 7 am to 3 pmMon to Fri Top rate of pay: Hourly - $27 to $29

Position Summary: Bongards Premium Cheese is looking for a dedicated, dynamic and experienced individual to serve as a Lab Technician on the day shift at our Norwood Processing Facility.

What You’ll Do:

• Daily testing(Must be able to learn but not be limited to)
  • Salt testing (Corning Analyzer)
  • Moisture testing (Vacuum Oven, and Convection oven)
  • Fat Testing (Babcock)
  • Sample Preparation for Lab, QC, FOSS and FQ analyzers.
  • Microbiological testing.
• Accurate documentation of test results and other associated paperwork.
• Electronic data entry and phoning of test results as necessary.

Ability to learn and assist the Quality Assurance Technicians as needed.

Maintenance of lab paperwork.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

What You Bring:

• Excellent arithmetic and reading skills generally acquired by a high school diploma or its equivalent.
• Proven organizational and communication skills.
• Proven ability to perform computer data entry work.
• Familiar with safe handling of chemicals and reagents.
• Must report all food safety and quality concerns to immediate supervisor or their designated replacement.

Working Conditions:

• Mainly a lab environment.
• Will be required to spend long periods of time standing while completing testing procedures.
• Job does require walking into the plant operations area.
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
• Must be able to operate hand grinder for sample preparation.
• May require weekend and holiday work.

Why Join Us?
At Bongards, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of team work and continuous improvement. Our team shares a true passion for producing safe, high-quality dairy products. Here, your efforts are not just valued—they’re rewarded with opportunities for growth and success.

For Your Contributions:

• Hourly Pay Range: $27 to $29
• Paid time off (PTO)
• 401(k) with company match
• Disability, life and voluntary insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Profit Sharing
• Internal Career Opportunities

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.