Lab Technician (Food Science)

This Lab Technician role focuses on receiving and registering incoming dairy samples, performing microbiological component testing, and accurately recording and reporting results in laboratory information management systems. The position supports quality control and regulatory testing by maintaining precise documentation, following established quality system procedures, and contributing to a clean, efficient, and fast-paced laboratory environment.

• Register incoming samples from the shipping department and ensure all sample information is accurately recorded.
• Maintain neat, organized, and accurate records of work performed on a daily basis for quality control and regulatory purposes.
• Enter sample data into DQCI LIMS or Eurofins eLIMS systems, either manually or through automatic export, ensuring data integrity and completeness.
• Perform component testing on all incoming dairy producer samples in an accurate, efficient, and timely manner.
• Conduct basic media preparation, plating, and aseptic techniques for microbiological analyses.
• Perform plate counts, incubations, and bacteria testing using appropriate microbiological methods.
• Operate ELISA instrumentation and perform related analysis according to established methods and procedures.
• Verify test results and submit them, either electronically or in hard copy, to the appropriate personnel for further laboratory testing or review.
• Understand and follow all Quality System documents, including the Quality Manual, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and laboratory methods.
• Adhere to quality measures that meet or exceed ISO/IEC standards, government regulatory requirements, and internal company requirements relevant to assigned duties.
• Clean glassware, vials, and workstations regularly to maintain a safe, organized, and efficient workspace.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with the technician team to maintain workflow and keep pace in a fast-paced environment.
• Progress from sample receiving and registration duties into microbiology laboratory work as training milestones are achieved.

• Proficiency in aseptic technique for microbiological sample handling and testing.
• Experience with microbiology laboratory practices, including media preparation, plating, plate counts, and incubations.
• Ability to work with dairy samples and understand basic dairy-related microbiological testing requirements.
• Familiarity with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and ability to follow detailed written methods.
• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), preferably DQCI LIMS or Eurofins eLIMS.
• Understanding of cell culture and autoclave use in a laboratory setting.
• Strong data entry skills with attention to accuracy and detail in recording sample information and test results.
• Reliability and strong work ethic, supported by professional references.
• BA/BS in a scientific discipline, preferably biology or a related scientific field.

• Two-year or four-year degree in biology or another scientific discipline is strongly preferred.
• Experience working in a laboratory environment focused on microbiology or dairy testing.
• Ability to learn and apply quality system documentation, including Quality Manual, SOPs, and methods.
• Comfort working with ELISA instrumentation and related analytical procedures.
• Strong communication skills to coordinate effectively within a team of technicians.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and quality standards.

The role begins in the sample receiving area, which operates similarly to a shipping department where milk samples from dairy producers are received and entered into the system. Initially, the Lab Technician spends 100% of their time in this area learning registration processes. After gaining proficiency in registration, the technician transitions into the microbiology laboratory and eventually splits time between sample receiving and lab work. The position follows an early-morning schedule, with training during the first week on a 5:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. shift, and then rotating start times of 5:00 a.m., 6:00 a.m., or 7:00 a.m., Monday through Friday. The team consists of approximately 15 technicians in producer testing, alongside a separate chemistry registration team. The environment is very fast paced, with a strong emphasis on hard work, communication, and teamwork to maintain throughput and quality. The laboratory uses standard microbiology equipment, autoclaves, ELISA instruments, and LIMS systems. The organization offers opportunities for advancement to higher technician levels over time, with associated raises, as well as benefits such as floating holidays and paid time off for major holidays and sick time.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Saint Paul, MN.

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $22.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Saint Paul,MN.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 31, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.