Quality Control Technician (Microbiology)

About Us:

Welcome to Lactalis Canada! We’re proud to be Canada’s #1 branded dairy company and to be consistently recognized as one of the country’s top employers by Forbes. Our purpose is to enrich and nurture the lives of Canadians by offering the best of dairy from Canada’s favourite dairy brands like Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, Balderson, Astro and Lactantia. In fact, our products can be found in over 90% of Canadian refrigerators in any given time. As part of Lactalis Group, the world’s leading dairy company, we remain focused on innovation and quality and are seeking like-minded individuals to join us as we continue our growth journey.

Our flexible hybrid work model accommodates 40% remote work, adapting to the evolving needs of our workforce. Step into a collaborative hub with our revamped office, and enjoy free parking, endless coffee, delicious Lactalis snacks, an on-site gym, and more!

Job Purpose

As a member of the Quality Team the Quality Technician is responsible for all aspects of product testing and monitoring of production environment quality to ensure that products meet food and quality specifications. Duties are performed through the use of equipment, auditing techniques, inspection, and testing method. In addition responsible for HACCP and QSL program support, CCP verification, and documentation management.

Responsibility

• Perform analytical and microbiological, chemistry, and sensorial testing and analysis of in-process and finished product samples according to approved standard operating procedures. Record and evaluate test data and notify the Quality Supervisor of any deviations from the prescribed product specifications. Conduct root cause analysis and determine the necessary corrective action.
• Perform packaging checks at start up to make sure all information are correct and communicate any deviation or issues to Production Supervisor/Manager where applicable. (New).
• Finished product sample collection according to the collection frequency as described in the procedure
• Perform internal audits on various plant programs and support QSL and HACCP documentation management. Participate with Quality Manager in implementing new standard requirements.
• Perform plant’s Environmental Monitoring and Water Quality programs (sampling, testing, recording and evaluating data) in compliance with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and/or Ministry of the Environment operational requirements.
• Organize and conduct shelf-life evaluation of specified products.
• Perform preventative maintenance and calibration of laboratory and plant analytical equipment.
• Organize, test and communicate test results for various product trials that require chemical or microbiological testing.
• Monitor the release of finished product and ensure nonconforming product is not released in accordance with QSL program and procedures.
• Perform administrative duties such as maintain records, forms and logs including computer databases, and performing regular inventory checks and providing the Quality supervisor/Manager with a list of required supplies.
• Participant in Health & Safety Program where applicable.

Qualifications

• College diploma or university degree in Food Science
• Two (2) to three (3) years’ experience in a dairy food lab
• Knowledge of analytical and microbiological testing with respect to dairy food products and ability to problem solve
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Organizational and time management skills
• Good communication skills
• Proficient with standard office computer technology such as Lotus Notes, Microsoft Office (Word & Excel), as well as business systems such as SAP
• Knowledge of HACCP, QSL and GMP policies and procedures

What Lactalis will offer:

Lactalis Canada believes in rewarding its people with the following comprehensive benefits package and perks:

• A Competitive Base Salary

• Company Vehicle or Car Allowance

• A Performance-Based Bonus System

• 4 Weeks of Vacation

• Benefits starting day 1

• A Pension Program with an Employer Match at 100% of up to 6%

• Tuition reimbursement plan of up to $3,000/year

• A Volunteer Day to give back to your community

• Learning and Development opportunities

• A commitment to internal career advancement with potential for international mobility

Our ESG commitment:

Our ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) roadmap drives our sustainability mission. We aim to positively impact communities and the planet by enabling stakeholders including our people, consumers, customers, suppliers, dairy farmers, government, and industry partners to have a positive impact on the wellbeing of our communities and the planet through all that we do.

At Lactalis Canada, we value our employees as catalysts for positive change. Together, we will create a sustainable future, promote belonging, and make a lasting impact on the world.

Our commitment to DEI:

Fuel Our Culture with Your Uniqueness! Lactalis thrives on the value each person brings. We're dedicated to amplifying diverse voices, inviting personal and professional growth, and embracing everyone's true selves. We're committed to crafting an environment that genuinely welcomes all, reflecting the richness of our people and communities. We apply an equal access to employment program and invite women, aboriginal people, visible minorities, and people with disabilities to apply.

Our promise extends to accessible processes and spaces. If you require accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent), please inform our Talent Acquisition team – confidentiality will be maintained.

Le bilinguisme est requis puisque le poste exige des communications fréquentes avec nos partenaires, nos usines et notre siège social qui se situent hors Québec.

Bilingualism is required as the position involves frequent communications with our partners, our factories, and our headquarters located outside Quebec.

Compensation:

As part of our commitment to fairness, trust, and transparency and our ambition to be an Employer of Choice, the base salary range for this position is: $62,500.00–$78,100.00 .

Please note: Along with a comprehensive Total Rewards package, your actual base salary will be fair, competitive, and be based on your skills, experience, and qualifications.