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Dairy Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

LAB TECH I - SWING

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Lab Technician I - Swing Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 2pm-10:30pm , Occasional Saturdays/Sundays as ... Collect dairy product samples from production lines according to established sampling protocols.

Lab Tech I - NIGHTS

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Lab Technician I - Nights Work Schedule: Wednesday-Saturday 9pm to 7:30am, (4) 10 hour Shifts, Some ... Collect dairy product samples from production lines according to established sampling protocols.

Lab Tech I - NIGHTS

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Lab Technician I - Nights Work Schedule: Wednesday-Saturday 9pm to 7:30am, (4) 10 hour Shifts, Some ... Collect dairy product samples from production lines according to established sampling protocols.

LAB TECH I - SWING

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Lab Technician I - Swing Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 2pm-10:30pm , Occasional Saturdays/Sundays as ... Collect dairy product samples from production lines according to established sampling protocols.

Lab Tech I - NIGHTS

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Lab Technician I - Nights Work Schedule: Wednesday-Saturday 9pm to 7:30am, (4) 10 hour Shifts, Some ... Collect dairy product samples from production lines according to established sampling protocols.

LAB TECH I - SWING

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Lab Technician I - Swing Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 2pm-10:30pm , Occasional Saturdays/Sundays as ... Collect dairy product samples from production lines according to established sampling protocols.

LAB TECH I - SWING (San Marcos)

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Lab Technician I - Swing Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 2pm-10:30pm , Occasional Saturdays/Sundays as ... Collect dairy product samples from production lines according to established sampling protocols.

Lab Technician

Los Angeles, CA

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Lab Technician The Lab Technician performs a full range of quality-related tasks, including ... Ability to perform sensory evaluation of dairy and plant-based products during and at the end of ...

Lab Tech I - Crescent City

Crescent City, CA · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

Experience in a dairy facility is preferred. * Experience working in a laboratory setting is ... Maintains a high level of accuracy and precision when performing lab tests, recording results, and ...

Experience in a dairy facility is preferred. * Experience working in a laboratory setting is ... Maintains a high level of accuracy and precision when performing lab tests, recording results, and ...

$19.51/hr

Performing lab testing procedures (e.g., environmental swabbing ... Conducting sensory analysis on dairy products like milk * Inspecting plant areas and equipment for ...

Senior Research Engineer

Hilmar, CA · On-site

$111K - $153K/yr

At Hilmar Cheese Company we improve lives around the world through wholesome dairy products. Since ... Troubleshoot situations as they arise in the lab and the manufacturing plant(s) as processes and ...

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Dairy Lab information

See California salary details

$21

$23

$25

How much do dairy lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for dairy lab in California is $23.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.69 and $24.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced in a dairy lab role, and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals working in a Dairy Lab often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict quality control standards, managing time-sensitive sample analyses, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Effective time management and attention to detail are crucial, as results must be both accurate and timely to support production. Additionally, collaborating closely with production and quality assurance teams helps address issues promptly and maintain smooth operations. Ongoing training in laboratory techniques and industry standards can further support success in this role.

What is the difference between Dairy Lab vs Dairy Technician?

AspectDairy LabDairy Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in dairy science, microbiology, or related fieldOften requires a high school diploma or technical training, with some roles needing certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, analyzing samples and conducting testsOn-site in dairy farms or processing plants, performing equipment maintenance and quality checks
Industry UsageUsed mainly in research, quality control, and product developmentCommon in dairy production facilities for operational support

The Dairy Lab focuses on testing, research, and quality analysis within a laboratory environment, requiring specialized education. In contrast, the Dairy Technician works directly in dairy production settings, handling equipment and ensuring product quality on-site. Both roles are essential in the dairy industry but differ in their daily tasks and work settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dairy lab technician?

To thrive as a Dairy Lab Technician, you need a background in food science or microbiology, knowledge of dairy processing, and often an associate degree or relevant laboratory certification. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, quality control protocols, and industry-specific software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accurate and efficient testing. These skills are crucial to maintaining product safety, meeting regulatory standards, and supporting overall dairy production quality.

What is a dairy lab technician?

Dairy Lab technicians are professionals who work in laboratories within the dairy industry to ensure the safety, quality, and compliance of milk and dairy products. They perform tests to monitor factors such as bacterial content, fat levels, and overall product purity. Their role is crucial for meeting industry standards and regulatory requirements, as well as supporting product development and quality assurance. Dairy Lab technicians typically use specialized equipment and follow strict procedures to obtain accurate results.
Infographic showing various Dairy Lab job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,754 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

LAB TECH I - SWING

Hollandia Dairy

San Marcos, CA • On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Title: Lab Technician I - Swing

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 2pm-10:30pm, Occasional Saturdays/Sundays as needed, Some Overtime

Hours Per Week: Full Time, 40+ Hrs, On site

Job Duties:

  • Collect dairy product samples from production lines according to established sampling protocols.
  • Prepare samples for testing by following standardized procedures, including homogenization, dilution, and filtration.
  • Perform a variety of tests to assess the quality, composition, and safety of dairy products, including but not limited to:
    • Fat content determination
    • Microbiological testing (e.g., total plate count, coliform count, yeast and mold enumeration).
    • pH measurement, titrations, and other chemical analyses.
  • Operate laboratory equipment such as spectrophotometers, pH meters, autoclaves, incubators, and microscopes.
  • Adhere to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols while performing tests.
  • Data Recording and Analysis:
  • Record test results accurately and promptly in laboratory notebooks or electronic databases.
  • Analyze data to identify trends, deviations, or abnormalities and report findings to supervisors.
  • Assist in the interpretation of test results and contribute to decision-making processes regarding product quality.
  • Participate in quality control activities to ensure compliance with regulatory standards (e.g., FDA, USDA, ISO, SQF).
  • Conduct internal audits and inspections to verify adherence to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
  • Assist in troubleshooting quality issues and implementing corrective actions as necessary.
  • Equipment Maintenance and Calibration:
  • Clean, maintain, and calibrate laboratory equipment according to maintenance schedules.
  • Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and perform minor repairs or coordinate with maintenance personnel for assistance.
  • Prepare reports summarizing test results, trends, and any deviations from established specifications.
  • Maintain accurate records of laboratory activities, including test protocols, instrument logs, and inventory management.
  • Prompt and regular attendance
  • Other duties as assigned.

Skills Needed: Knowledge of math skills, computer, ability to read/interpret documents, and write routine reports/correspondence. May perform other duties as assigned, work as part of a team, maintain a clean/sanitary/safe work area. Requires accuracy and attention to detail. English language proficiency required. Previous lab experience is preferred but not required.

Physical Requirements: While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; talk or hear and taste or smell. The employee is constantly required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance and stoop. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 55 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment: While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is occasionally exposed to humid conditions and the noise level in the work environment is quiet except for when on the production floor.

Employment is contingent upon results of a post-offer background check, drug test, functional assessment and physical.
Instructions: Applicants may apply online at www.HollandiaDairy.com/Careers. Applicants who are unable to use the online system due to a disability should call the HR department to request an accommodation.

Benefits: On day one, full-time employees are eligible for excellent medical, dental, vision, employer paid for long-term disability, life insurance (free up to $50k); various additional options to choose from

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
  • Flex-125 Medical/Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
  • Generous PTO program, Holiday Pay
  • Voluntary benefits: Accident, Critical Illness, Short Term Disability
  • 401k and Merit Plan with Employer Match
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Employee assistance program
  • Fun employee and family events

Hollandia Dairy is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled


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