QA Lab Tech Ice Cream (first shift)

Dairy Farmers of America; Wilbraham (MA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Dairy Farmers of America is seeking a General Quality Control Associate to test products, set up samples, and support QA programs. You will use gauges and lab equipment to verify conformity to standards and help ensure food safety and quality in our production environment.

The role emphasizes accuracy, record keeping, data entry, and collaboration with team members to maintain high standards of quality across all batching processes.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Post-secondary education related to food science or biology preferred.
• 1–3 years in food manufacturing, lab testing or QA preferred.
• Certification such as Better Processing Certificate may be required.

Responsibilities

• Ensure quality of batch preparation and QC activities to meet specs.
• Test incoming/outgoing products for suitability and standards.
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory instrumentation as directed.
• Maintain lab records, perform data entry, and prepare reports.
• Monitor process quality and report trends to supervisor.
• Assist with cleaning, safety, and GMP compliance.

Skills

Quality control

Attention to detail

Data entry

Teamwork

Clear communication

Education

High school diploma

Post-secondary food science education

Better Processing Certificate

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Microsoft Office

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