QC Lab Technician

Dairy Farmers of America; Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Dairy Farmers of America is seeking a Quality Control Technician to apply testing experience across production stages. You will test and inspect products, set up samples, and help maintain QA programs to ensure food safety and quality standards throughout manufacturing.

The role demands accuracy, instrument calibration, and collaboration with supervisors to address quality issues. A high school diploma and related food science education are preferred, with 1–3 years in a food manufacturing lab

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; related post-secondary preferred.
• Post-secondary education in food science or related field preferred.
• 1–3 years in food manufacturing, laboratory, or QA roles.
• Certification/licensing may be required (e.g., BPC, antibiotic testing).

Responsibilities

• Ensure quality of batch preparation and QC activities to meet specs.
• Test incoming/outgoing products for compliance with standards.
• Perform sample setup, sorting, preparation, and cleanup.
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory instrumentation as directed.
• Notify supervisor of out-of-range values and trends immediately.
• Maintain lab records and complete paperwork accurately and on time.
• Enter data into computer systems and document as SOPs require.
• Prepare reports of results and maintain process control data.
• Participate in meetings and suggest efficiency improvements.
• Daily cleaning of the task area; CIP cleaning and glassware washing.
• Maintain safe working conditions and comply with regulations.
• Follow GMP and all regulatory, food safety, and sanitation rules.

Skills

Lab equipment knowledge

MS Office

Lab calculations

Lab procedures

Record keeping

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Teamwork

Problem solving

General supervision

English proficiency

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Food science-related post-secondary education

1–3 years related experience

Certification/licensing (BPC, antibiotic testing)

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.

HOURS AND DAYS OFF

• Sun 4:00am-12:30pm
• Mon 4:00am-12:30pm
• Tue OFF
• Wed OFF
• Thurs 5:00am-1:30pm
• Fri 5:00am-1:30pm
• Sat 5:00am-1:30pm

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