Lab Coordinator at Saputo in Tulare, CA

At Saputo, we bring good to the table by making high-quality products, investing in our people, and supporting communities around the world . As a top 10 global dairy processor, we value contributions that matter and strive to foster an inclusive, growth-driven work environment. Ready to bring your best?

SUMMARY:

Responsible for entering the chemistry data of Dairy fluids and cheese into SAP. And reviewing the accuracy of all paperwork that is generated in the lab; will produce all quality related reports; will provide assistance to all other laboratory technicians and other departments as required to aid in the production of quality products and the monitoring of process controls. Always adheres to all safety, GMP, and food safety policies and procedures.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Ability to pull production samples and test accordingly for accurate daily inventory results.

• Entering and verifying accurate data results in SAP: To include production inventory samples, milk and whey products, finished product, and in process samples.

• Review accuracy of Daily Cheese in process testing and updating/correcting if necessary.

• Aid in the coordinating and prepping of samples for bake evaluations: identifying samples, weighing samples, preparation of paperwork, etc.

• Must be able to set-up, operate, maintain, clean, and calibrate all pieces of laboratory equipment maintained in the laboratory and other departments.

• Sample analysis using various lab equipment such as: oven, pH meter, FT1, CEM, chloride analyzer, etc.

• Must follow all necessary safety precautions.

• Must be able to operate a personal computer and systems computer to input necessary data (i.e. MS Word, Excel and SAP).

• Responsible for communication of results to proper individuals in a timely, confidential and professional manner.

• Provide support for Monthly/Quarterly/Annual Food Safety programs including: GMP audits, Glass & Brittle Plastic audits, Handwash Station inspections, Locker Room inspections, etc.

• Assist with the coordination and completion of Quarterly Calibrations.

• Assist with the completion of outgoing customer COA’s.

• Assist in the receipt and review of all incoming ingredient COA’s, and release of these products once review is complete.

• Assist with the re-claim of product.

• Cover QA Coordinator and all tasks associated when needed.

• Ability to work independently with limited direction and supervision.

• All other assigned duties.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.

Has working knowledge of a variety of computer software applications in word processing, spreadsheets, and database software (MS Word and Excel); SAP mainframe.

Employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 45lbs. Employee will be exposed to noise, Hot and cold temperatures while inside the plant’s production area.

Reliable and available to work any shift, overtime, and holidays required.

Demonstrates good interpersonal communications skills with a commitment and sensitivity to maintain confidentiality.

Self-motivated and a multi-tasker who can solve analytical problems.

Knowledge/proficiency with laboratory related equipment, test procedures, microbiology preferred.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

There are no supervisory responsibilities.

FOOD SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES:

All quality assurance personnel are responsible for food safety including, but not limited to practicing GMP’s, and appropriate food defense techniques.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

Values that align with the Saputo culture: Efficiency through Simplicity, Family Environment, Ownership and Commitment, Hands-On Approach, Passion.

Associates degree in Dairy Science, Food Science or a related field; minimum of 1-3 years of lab experience desired; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Prior experience with SAP, MS Word/Excel, Aseptic sampling, Swabbing, Equipment calibrations, Sensory evaluation of product, Techniques of microbial analysis (plating, swabbing, reading, etc.), Shelf life evaluations and using equipment like FT-1, Ph Meter and Food scan highly desired.

REASONING ABILITY:

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.  Being able to resolve issues/problems that involve numerous variables in demanding situations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 

• Must be able to stoop, kneel, and squat for several minutes at a time

• Must be able to stand on feet for at least a two-hour consecutive time period

• Must be able to lift up to forty-five (45) pounds

• Must be able to enter into confined spaces

• Ability to reach with hands and arms, and talk and hear

• Employee is required to stand, walk, and use hands to finger, handle or feel

• Employee will be required to go up and down a flight of stairs daily when is required for sample testing, calibration, etc.

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perceptions and ability to adjust focus

Hourly Pay Range: $30.67 - $36.14

In the USA, Saputo ranks among the top three cheese producers and is one of the top producers of extended shelf-life and cultured dairy products, with a portfolio of well-loved brands such as Stella, Frigo Cheese, Montchevre, Stella, and Treasure Cave. We also boast a strong foodservice presence, partnering with reputable chain restaurants and broadline distributors.

Whether your expertise lies in manufacturing, operations, supply chain, sales, quality assurance, or in any other function, your role is integral to our success. You will make contributions that matter, all while working alongside colleagues who genuinely care about your success and who will roll up their sleeves to help.

Saputo Cheese USA Inc. endeavors to make CareersUSA.Saputo.com accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Human Resources at 214-863-2300 or email us.recruitingsupport@saputo.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

Saputo Cheese USA Inc. and Saputo Dairy Foods USA, LLC are equal opportunity employers. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under law, please visit www.EEOC.gov.

To review the Saputo Cheese USA Inc. and Saputo Dairy Foods USA LLC Privacy Notice for California applicants, please visit our Corporate website associated section by clicking here (English) or here (Spanish).