Job at a glance
Quality Technician – 2nd Shift Job Description The Quality Technician – 2nd Shift role is based in a dairy manufacturing facility that produces milk, flavored milks such as chocolate and strawberry, and cultured dairy products including cottage cheese. In this position, you support the quality team by performing routine testing on in-process and finished products to ensure they meet strict food safety and quality standards.
You play a key role in maintaining product integrity, supporting laboratory operations, and contributing to a culture of continuous improvement and long-term quality excellence. Responsibilities Collect in-process and finished product samples from the production line and bring them to the laboratory for analysis. Perform basic analytical testing, including pH measurements, wet chemistry techniques, and basic microbiological testing on dairy products.
Utilize laboratory equipment and pipetting techniques accurately to conduct analyses and generate reliable data. Document and record all test results in accordance with internal procedures and applicable regulatory standards. Support other technicians by assisting with daily lab activities and contributing to efficient workflow and lab operations. Participate in organoleptic (taste) testing of dairy products as part of the overall quality evaluation process.
Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment, following all safety and sanitation protocols. Follow standard operating procedures consistently and maintain strong attention to detail in all testing and documentation tasks. Interact and communicate effectively with production staff while collecting samples and discussing quality-related findings. Demonstrate a quality-focused mindset and a desire to build a long-term career in quality assurance and laboratory work.
Essential Skills Quality control and quality assurance mindset with strong attention to detail. Basic understanding of laboratory practices, or a strong willingness to learn and apply lab techniques. Ability to perform basic analytical tests, including pH testing, wet chemistry methods, and basic microbiological procedures. Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and pipetting techniques with accuracy and care.
Ability to follow standard operating procedures and maintain accurate, organized documentation. Comfort working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and adapting to changing priorities. Strong communication skills to interact effectively with both laboratory colleagues and production staff. Comfort with consuming dairy products as part of sensory and organoleptic evaluations. Interest in long-term growth and building a career within a quality-focused role.
Additional Skills & Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field preferred, such as Biology, Chemistry, Food Science, or a closely related discipline. Prior laboratory or quality experience is a plus, but the role is open to entry-level candidates. Ability to work cooperatively within a relatively new team and build positive working relationships. Demonstrated reliability and commitment to maintaining high food safety and quality standards.
Work Environment Monday through Friday 11am to 8pm. This position is primarily based in a laboratory within a dairy manufacturing facility that produces a variety of milk and cultured dairy products. You work closely with a relatively new, collaborative team that values clear communication and being easy to work with. While most duties occur in the lab, you regularly go onto the production floor to collect samples and interact with production personnel.
The environment is fast-paced and focused on maintaining strict food safety and quality standards, offering opportunities to learn, grow, and build a long-term career in quality and laboratory work. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of O Fallon, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $22.00/hr. Individual compe