Lead Technician - Protein Department

Dairy One Cooperative; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 31,684,800 - 74,390,400; Full time

Job summary

Dairy One Cooperative in Ithaca, NY is seeking a Lead Technician for the Forage and Soil Lab to head the protein department. Responsibilities include preparing samples, operating advanced instrumentation, and ensuring quality control while following testing and safety protocols.

We value accuracy, attention to detail, and teamwork. The role requires strong communication and the ability to work collaboratively within the lab team.

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or GED required; one year of related lab technician experience.
• Proficient computer skills; experience with Microsoft Word and Excel; able to use specialized laboratory software Fox, Eudora, Winisi II, Turbo Chrom 4, Thermospec, FP 528 Ver 1.30.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples for analysis, including weighing into vessels and processing extractions for multiple analyses.
• Operate testing equipment, record results in LIMS, create files, and troubleshoot routine instrumentation.
• Measure, weigh and mix chemical solutions according to prescribed formulas.
• Perform minor maintenance and repairs on equipment.

Skills

Computer skills

Education

High school diploma / GED

Bachelor’s degree in science

Tools

Fox

Eudora

Winisi II

Turbo Chrom 4

Thermospec

FP 528 Ver 1.30

Microsoft Word

Excel

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Ithaca, NY 14850

Position Type: Full Time

Education Level: 2 Year Degree

Salary Range: $23.00 - $26.00 Hourly

Travel Percentage: None

Job Shift: Any

JOB SUMMARY

We are looking for a Lead Technician in the Forage and Soil Lab to head the protein department. The lead technician is responsible for preparing samples for testing, operating cutting-edge instrumentation for sample analysis, and ensuring appropriate quality control measures are practiced at all times. Lab technicians are expected to follow established testing and safety protocols. Accuracy, attention to detail and the ability to work as part of a team are essential.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• 45% Prepare samples for analysis, including weighing into vessels and processing sample extractions for multiple analysis types. This requires planning and strong communication skills and the ability to cooperate with team members.
• 45% Operate testing equipment, record results in our LIMS systems, create computer files, manually record data and upload and print test results. Troubleshooting equipment as needed will be required, including interfacing with service engineers to troubleshoot routine instrumentation malfunctions.
• 5% Measure, weigh, and mix chemical solutions in accordance with prescribed formulas.
• 5% Perform minor maintenance and repair work on equipment as needed.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduation from high school or possession of a general equivalency diploma (GED) required. One-year of related laboratory technician experience.
• Proficient computer skills, preferably using Microsoft Word and Excel. Ability to use specialized laboratory software such as Fox, Eudora, Winisi II, Turbo Chrom 4, Thermospec, FP 528 Ver 1.30.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in a laboratory where there is exposure to chemicals and occasional exposure to dust and noise. The use of protective safety equipment is required.

MENTAL AND VISUAL DEMANDS

Close mental and visual attention is required for controlling machines or processes at a rapid pace requiring close coordination and fine adjustment.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS

Constantly uses hands to finger, handle, or feel; talks or hears; and performs repetitive motions of the hands and/or wrists. Regularly sits, stands, walks, and reaches with arms and/or hands. Occasionally stoops, kneels, crouches, bends, and/or climbs.

EMPLOYER’S DISCLAIMER

All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, no accommodations will be made which may pose serious health or safety risks to the employee or others or which impose undue hardships on the company. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. Furthermore, the company reserves the right to add to or revise an employee's job duties at any time at its sole discretion. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” employment relationship.

Qualifications SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Lab Technician I & II

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree in a science field and at least 2 years of lab experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Proficient computer skills, preferably using Microsoft Word and Excel.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in a laboratory where there is exposure to chemicals and occasional exposure to dust and noise. The use of protective safety equipment is required.

MENTAL AND VISUAL DEMANDS

Close mental and visual attention required for controlling machines or processes at a rapid pace requiring close coordination and fine adjustment.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS

Constantly uses hands to finger, handle, or feel; talks or hears; and performs repetitive motions of the hands and/or wrists. Regularly sits, stands, walks, and reaches with arms and/or hands. Occasionally stoops, kneels, crouches, bends, and/or climbs. Ability to occasionally lift up to 100 pounds.