Quality Assurance Technician

Select Milk Producers is one of the nation’s largest and most progressive dairy cooperatives, with 32 wholly owned subsidiaries, 8 processing plants, and 8 joint ventures including Continental Dairy Facilities, Continental Dairy Facilities Southwest, Mill Haven Foods, Select Custom Solutions, GreenLink and Select Services. With over 800 employees, the Select Milk family of companies impacts all aspects of the dairy farm business and at the heart of our family of companies, is you.

"We strive to go above and beyond what’s expected in providing for our families, leading our employees, caring for our land and animals, serving our customers, producing quality milk, and serving one another. This commitment is more than our business, it’s in our culture and our character. We believe in being accountable, in doing what’s right, in performing at our best, in setting a higher standard."

Select Milk Producers and its subsidiaries offer an attractive compensation and a best-in-class benefits package that includes but is not limited medical, vision, dental, life insurance and more that can be tailored for you and your family. Other benefits for eligible employees include 401(k) up to 6% company match, life and disability insurance, and paid holidays & vacation. We are proud to promote an equal employment opportunity workplace.

SUMMARY OF FUNCTIONS:
The Quality Assurance Technician is responsible for analytical and microbiological evaluations of all raw, pasteurized, and final products. All work must comply with USDA, FDA, AOAC, GFSI, GMP, and safety regulations, as well as company policies. A Technician I performs routine testing and QA tasks under close supervision, focusing on building technical proficiency and knowledge.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Operate laboratory testing equipment and independently perform a broad range of analytical and microbiological tests
• Perform daily quality checks and audits under close supervision.
• Accurately complete worksheets and logs, either electronic or paper.
• Assist in the preparation of solutions, media, and sample compositing for third-party testing.
• Follow all safety, GMP, and laboratory protocols.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the laboratory work area.
• Escalate unusual results or product defects immediately to a supervisor.
• Participate in basic training and continuous improvement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
• Must work in a safe, efficient manner and follow all safety procedures including the use of safety equipment.
• Must have the ability to troubleshoot small problems and be able to discern when issues may require input from levels of authority within the corporation. Must be willing to ask for assistance when the process is unclear.
• Developing knowledge of laboratory practices. Works under close supervision. Seeks guidance when issues arise.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
• Tech I: Bachelor’s degree preferred (or equivalent coursework) in Dairy Science, Microbiology, Food Science, Chemistry, or related field or similar work experience in related industry.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:
• All levels must be able to acquire a Certified Sampler license by the state regulatory agency.
• All levels must be able to obtain certification as Certified Industry Supervisor in accordance with the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) and state regulatory requirements.
• Tech I: Expected to obtain certifications within specified timeframe.