Lab Technician – Dairy Farmers of America
The Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Lab Technician to join their Quality team in Garden City, Kansas. In this role, you will support the Quality Manager in ensuring product integrity through testing, monitoring, and maintaining strict compliance with food safety and regulatory standards. The Food Science Jobs are ideal for individuals passionate about food science, laboratory operations, and quality assurance in the dairy industry.
Job Details:
- Job Title: Lab Technician (#33960)
- Location: Garden City, Kansas, United States
- Company: Dairy Farmers of America (DFA)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Travel: No travel required
- Reporting To: Quality Manager
- Work Environment: Manufacturing, laboratory, exposure to dairy/food products, chemicals, refrigerated and warm environments
About the Company:
Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) is a leading, farmer-owned dairy cooperative committed to producing high-quality dairy products across the country. With a focus on food safety, sustainability, and innovation, DFA supports both its employees and member farmers while maintaining the highest standards of quality in production. The organization operates with a strong emphasis on teamwork, integrity, and continuous improvement.
Educational Requirements for the Lab Technician Role:
- Required: High School Diploma or GED
- Preferred: Two-Year Applied Science Degree (Food Science, Dairy Science, Microbiology)
- Preferred Experience: 1 year in a food laboratory
- Certifications:
- Kansas Department of Agriculture Sampler Certification
- Certified Industry Analyst for PMO Appendix-N Milk Drug Residue Testing
Key Responsibilities of the Lab Technician Role:
- Support quality monitoring, testing, and verification processes
- Follow DFA GMPs and ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards
- Maintain environmental swab sampling and plant cleanliness
- Test incoming and outgoing products for quality and compliance
- Document lab values and operational findings
- Report any deviations from acceptable quality standards
- Perform preventive maintenance and equipment verifications
- Manage laboratory sample retention and inventory
- Collaborate with production and quality teams to maintain a one-team environment
- Support continuous improvement initiatives
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized laboratory work area
- Uphold confidentiality and protect company assets
- Ensure adherence to customer-specific quality policies and procedures
Skills Required for the Lab Technician Role:
- Strong knowledge of laboratory calculations and analytical procedures
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Strong initiative and follow-through
- Effective communication skills (verbal and written)
- Ability to work collaboratively and promote positive teamwork
- Strong attention to detail and problem-solving capabilities
- Computer proficiency (company systems)
- Ability to adapt to changing tasks and environments
- High degree of confidentiality
- Must be able to read, write, and speak English
How to Apply?
Interested candidates for the Food Science Jobs should apply through the official Dairy Farmers of America careers portal. Make sure to track job updates regularly for any changes in requirements or application status.
