The Lab Technician performs laboratory testing duties to ensure a quality product is produced, packaged, and prepared for delivery to customers in a safe manner. 

Responsibilities: 

• Perform microbiological, chemical, physical, and sensory analyses of the product.
• Hold, release, and reject finished goods based on product analysis.
• Verify compliance and alert management of any deviations from specifications.
• Perform in-plant weight checks, temperature checks, ingredient usage, and distribution of finished product appearance, code date verification, pH testing, and metal detection verification.
• Perform calibration and scheduled preventative maintenance on lab equipment.
• Responsible for daily finished product evaluations.
• Perform environment testing.
• Maintain documentation on all tests performed in the lab.
• Maintain a clean, sanitary, and safe work area.
• Will be required to climb, crawl and walk in an upright as well as a bent position.  Will be required to work in very hot (100+ degrees) and very cool (32-degrees) environments.  May be required to move objects weighing as much as 225 pounds.

Qualifications and Experience: 

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science or related field preferred.
• Previous experience in a laboratory environment is required.
• Previous experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment is preferred.
• Ability to read, write, perform basic mathematical calculations, and accurately record data.
• Must be willing to work overtime, weekends, holidays, and varying shifts, as required.
• Minimum age: 18
• Must be able to pass a drug screen and physical.

Physical Demands/Work Conditions: 

• Must be able to frequently stand, walk, kneel, reach, climb, pull, and bend.
• Will be required to climb, crawl and walk in an upright as well as a bent position.  Will be required to work in very hot (100+ degrees) and very cool (32-degrees) environments.  May be required to move objects weighing as much as 225 pounds.

I understand the description of this job and the essential functions, as given above.  I also understand that all of the duties are not described above and that I will perform those above and other related duties as directed by my supervisor and management.

Hiland Dairy Foods Company is an equal opportunity employer