QA Lab Tech Ice Cream (first shift)

dfa; Massachusetts; On-site; USD 48,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

dfa is seeking a Quality Control Lab Technician to apply testing and inspection skills across batching and production stages. You will set up samples, inspect products, and ensure adherence to food safety standards with high accuracy and concentration.

The role requires performing calibrations, maintaining records, and preparing reports while following GMP, safety regulations, and company SOPs. Candidates with 1–3 years in related fields are preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Post-secondary education in food science or related fields preferred.
• 1–3 years in food manufacturing, lab, or QA experience.
• Certification/licensing may be required during employment.

Responsibilities

• Test and inspect products at various stages of batching and production.
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory instrumentation.
• Maintain lab records and complete paperwork accurately.
• Prepare reports of results and monitor quality data.
• Ensure compliance with GMP and health and safety regulations.
• Assist with CIP cleaning and general lab upkeep.
• Communicate quality issues to supervisor promptly.
• Support team with data entry and use of computer systems.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Communication

Troubleshooting

English proficiency

Accuracy

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Post-secondary education in food science/biological sciences preferred

Certification/licensing may be required (e.g., Better Processing Certificate)

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Laboratory instruments

Job description

GENERAL PURPOSE

Apply quality control experience to perform tasks related to the testing of products, setting of samples, and following through on various quality assurance programs. Test and inspect products at various stages of the batching and production process. Compile and evaluate data to determine and maintain quality and reliability of products. Use gauges and other devices to verify conformity to standards of products being tested. Work with a high degree of accuracy and concentration to produce valid test results in a timely manner. Ensure that products are produced and distributed to the highest food safety and quality standards.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensure quality of batch preparation and quality control activities, including process inspection, sampling, and evaluation to meet specification and quality standards
• Properly test incoming and outgoing products for suitability and compliance with appropriate standards
• Perform sample setup/sorting, preparation, and clean‑up
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory instrumentation as directed
• Notify supervisor of any out-of-range value or variation from accepted norms in operations or product quality immediately; monitor quality problems or trends
• Maintain lab records as directed. Complete all required paperwork accurately, clearly, timely and completely with required information. Complete data entry into the computer system(s). Ensure all required information is documented in accordance with standard operation procedures
• Prepare reports of results
• Maintain process control by monitoring and/or generating statistical information and reporting to team leader or supervisor
• Participate in task meetings and suggest changes in work tasks and use of equipment to increase efficiencies
• Perform daily cleaning of task area keeping work area free of clutter. During CIP (Clean in Place), perform detail cleaning in task areas. Wash lab utensils and glassware; assist with other clean‑up activities
• Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
• Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements

The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Post-secondary education related to food science, biological science, or related sciences preferred
• 1 to 3 years of food manufacturing, laboratory, food testing, quality assurance, and/or related work experience
• Certification and/or License – may be required during course of employment such as Better Processing Certificate, state certification for antibiotic testing, etc.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of and skill with applicable laboratory equipment
• Able to use Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
• Able to use and understand calculations used for laboratory analysis
• Able to follow laboratory procedures and state and federal regulations regarding the testing of applicable products
• Able to keep good records (record keeping skill)
• Able to follow directions
• Able to work with accuracy and attention to detail
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Able to work in collaboration, foster good teamwork, and promptly share relevant information with others
• Able to identify problems, take appropriate steps to find solutions to problems, and implement solutions
• Able to perform task and duties under general supervision
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans