Quality Assurance Laboratory Technician

SVD, Inc.; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

SVD, Inc. is seeking a Quality Lab Technician to perform microbiological, chemical, and physical testing on raw materials, in-process goods, and finished yogurt products in a fast-paced dairy facility.

The role supports the QA team by maintaining thorough documentation, following GMP, SQF, and FSMA programs, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. Strong attention to detail, ability to work with calibrated instruments, and team collaboration across Production, Sanitation,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biology or related field.
• 1–3 years lab or quality assurance exp. in food manufacturing preferred.
• Dairy/food manufacturing experience is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with SQF, HACCP, FSMA, GMPs and sanitation requirements.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine lab testing on raw materials, in-process products, environmental samples, and finished products.
• Collect samples according to established plans.
• Conduct microbiological, chemical, and physical analyses per procedures.
• Record results and maintain testing documentation.
• Verify product specifications (pH, viscosity, temperature, weight, etc.).
• Environmental monitoring and sanitation verification testing.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science

Associate's degree in Food Science

Tools

Microsoft Office

Laboratory data entry

Job description

The Quality Lab Technician is responsible for performing laboratory testing and quality inspections on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods to ensure compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards. This position supports the Quality Assurance team by conducting microbiological, chemical, and physical testing, maintaining accurate laboratory documentation, and assisting with food safety programs in a fast-paced Greek yogurt manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities & Duties

• Perform routine laboratory testing on raw materials, in-process products, environmental samples, and finished products.
• Collect product and environmental samples according to established sampling plans.
• Conduct microbiological, chemical, and physical analyses following approved laboratory procedures.
• Record laboratory results accurately and maintain complete testing documentation.
• Verify product specifications, including pH, viscosity, temperature, weight, and other quality parameters.
• Perform environmental monitoring and sanitation verification testing.
• Assist with product hold and release procedures under the direction of the QA Supervisor.
• Monitor and calibrate laboratory equipment to ensure accurate testing results.
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, and sanitation in accordance with GMP and SQF requirements.
• Assist in maintaining laboratory inventory, chemicals, testing supplies, and equipment.
• Support production by performing line inspections and verifying compliance with food safety and quality standards.
• Complete required documentation in accordance with company SOPs and document control procedures.
• Participate in internal audits, customer audits, and regulatory inspections as requested.
• Assist with investigations, root cause analysis, and corrective actions related to quality or food safety issues.
• Support implementation of SQF, HACCP, FSMA, and GMP programs.
• Work collaboratively with Production, Sanitation, Maintenance, and Warehouse departments to ensure product quality.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate's degree or Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific field preferred.
• Minimum 1–3 years of laboratory or food manufacturing quality assurance experience preferred.
• Experience in dairy or food manufacturing is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of laboratory testing procedures and sampling techniques.
• Familiarity with Safe Quality Food (SQF), HACCP, FSMA, GMPs, and sanitation requirements.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to accurately document laboratory findings.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and laboratory data entry.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining strong communication with production and QA teams.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to interpret specifications, procedures, and laboratory testing protocols.
• Commitment to food safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Food Safety Responsibilities:

• Prioritize food safety, product quality, and sanitation in all daily activities.
• Follow all SQF, HACCP, FSMA, GMP, and company food safety policies and procedures.
• Immediately report any food safety concerns, deviations, or quality issues to the QA Supervisor.
• Ensure all laboratory practices comply with company food safety standards.
• Participate in food safety training and continuous improvement initiatives.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Frequent movement between laboratory and production environments.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to repeatedly taste yogurt throughout their shift.
• Ability to work in refrigerated, wet, or temperature-variable production areas.
• Manual dexterity to operate laboratory instruments and testing equipment.

We’re excited to welcome driven, dedicated individuals who want to be part of something special. Join us in crafting the highest quality Greek yogurt and help shape the future of a company that’s growing, evolving, and proud of what we create every day!