Producer Payment Regulatory Lab Technician - First Shift

JOB SUMMARY

The Producer Payment Regulatory Lab Technician operates testing equipment using approved protocols to analyze milk samples for a variety of components. Responsibilities of the role include; maintaining smooth operation of equipment by calibrating machines or performing hourly checks, mixing and adding chemicals, and performing approved maintenance and repair. Accuracy, attention to detail, dependability and the ability to work as part of a team are key skills necessary to find success in this position.

The shift for this position is:

Tuesday to Saturday 7am - 3:30pm

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

% of total effort	Duties
30%	Sorting and Data Entry: Retrieves and sorts incoming samples from ice chests or coolers. Correctly handles samples throughout the sorting, scanning and testing processes. Correctly enters producer numbers and sample data into the computer
25%	Machine Operation: Operates a variety of milk testing equipment including Bactoscan units and Foss Combi units following applicable standard operating procedures. This includes: performing start-ups and shut-downs at the start and end of the shift, checking and ensuring appropriate chemical levels in machines, Measures and mixes chemicals. Adds chemicals to equipment as needed. calibrating or confirming accuracy of equipment at start-up, during hourly checks or as otherwise dictated by the situation and cleaning equipment as established in lab protocol. Prepares chemical buffers.

25%	Testing: Tests milk in line with required standards for fat, protein, lactose, somatic cells, SCC, MUN, bacteria (plate counts, preliminary incubations, lab pasteurizations), coliform, pasteurization, water (cryoscopes), growth inhibitors, sediments and other substances as may be required. This includes performing all required steps of the testing process (ie: pour offs of LPs, reading of petri films, etc.) Performs farm water testing. Confirms test results for samples that violate established standards.
10%	Compliance: Assist in maintaining regulatory compliance (ie: participating in regular training, lab inspections, split sample protocols, etc.). Reports all deviations from established standards promptly. Performs tasks required to maintain laboratory regulatory approval (for example: calibration of pipettes and thermometers, recording daily refrigerator temperatures). Maintains cleanliness and upkeep of work area and overall lab.
10%	Customer Service - Interact with customers and Field Staff on an as needed basis

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in a laboratory where there is exposure to chemicals. Hands are regularly exposed to ice and cold. Use of protective safety equipment is required for certain tasks.

MENTAL AND VISUAL DEMANDS

Close mental and visual attention required for controlling machines or processes operating at a rapid pace. As a team based operation, the ability to interact well with others is critical

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS

Constantly stands and/or walks; uses hands to finger, handle, and/or feel; reaches with arms and/or hands; talks or hears; and performs repetitive motion of the hands and/or wrists. Ability to occasionally lift up to 35 pounds.

EMPLOYER’S DISCLAIMER

All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, no accommodations will be made which may pose serious health or safety risks to the employee or others or which impose undue hardships on the company.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. Furthermore, the company reserves the right to add to or revise an employee's job duties at any time at its sole discretion.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

At Dairy One Cooperative, Inc., we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We proudly provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Qualifications

An associate degree in a science field and at least 1 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Proficient computer skills, preferably using Microsoft Word and Excel.