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Dairy Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Driver

Tulare, CA · On-site

$22.60/hr

Driver - Diagnostic Lab Position Summary The Driver with the Patterson Animal Health Diagnostic Lab ... Visit assigned dairy customers on a daily basis to collect milk samples according to established ...

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... in dairy or food manufacturing is highly desirable. · Knowledge of laboratory testing procedures and sampling techniques. · Familiarity with Safe Quality Food (SQF), HACCP, FSMA, GMPs, and ...

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... in dairy or food manufacturing is highly desirable. · Knowledge of laboratory testing procedures and sampling techniques. · Familiarity with Safe Quality Food (SQF), HACCP, FSMA, GMPs, and ...

... dairy (multiple tanks)for lab testing, bacteria testing and Lab testing of raw milk - antibiotic (snap testing) Deliver orders in refrigerated van to various locations on request Pick up raw ...

Take milk samples from each dairy (multiple tanks)for lab testing, bacteria testing and Lab testing of raw milk - antibiotic (snap testing) * Deliver orders in refrigerated van to various locations ...

Driver (Class A)

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$32 - $34/hr

Take milk samples from each dairy (multiple tanks)for lab testing, bacteria testing and Lab testing of raw milk - antibiotic (snap testing) * Deliver orders in refrigerated van to various locations ...

Scientist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Help us make real dairy without cows. Mozza Foods is an early-stage Los Angeles biotech company ... our electronic lab notebook, and present results at team meetings - Collaborate closely with ...

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The R&D technician will provide lab support to Technologists, Product Development Managers and ... the dairy, bakery, beverage and food service industry. We pride ourselves on fostering a ...

Showing results 21-40

Dairy Lab information

See California salary details

$21

$23

$25

How much do dairy lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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 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.

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 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 job categories do people searching Dairy Lab jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Dairy Lab jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Dairy Lab job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. 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.

Quality Assurance Lab Technician - 3rd Shift

Guida's Dairy

City Of Industry, CA

$30.92 - $38.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

General Purpose

Apply quality control experience to perform tasks related to the testing of products, setting of samples, and following through on various quality assurance programs. Test and inspect products at various stages of the batching and production process. Compile and evaluate data to determine and maintain quality and reliability of products. Use gauges and other devices to verify conformity to standards of products being tested. Work with a high degree of accuracy and concentration to produce valid test results in a timely manner. Ensure that products are produced and distributed to the highest food safety and quality standards.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Ensure quality of batch preparation and quality control activities, including process inspection, sampling, and evaluation to meet specification and quality standards
  • Properly test incoming and outgoing products for suitability and compliance with appropriate standards
  • Perform sample setup/sorting, preparation, and clean-up
  • Calibrate and maintain laboratory instrumentation as directed
  • Notify supervisor of any out-of-range value or variation from accepted norms in operations or product quality immediately; monitor quality problems or trends
  • Maintain lab records as directed. Complete all required paperwork accurately, clearly, timely, and completely with required information. Complete data entry into the computer system(s). Ensure all required information is documented in accordance with standard operation procedures
  • Prepare reports of results
  • Maintain process control by monitoring and/or generating statistical information and reporting to team leader or supervisor
  • Participate in task meetings and suggest changes in work tasks and use of equipment to increase efficiencies
  • Perform daily cleaning of task area keeping work area free of clutter. During CIP (Clean in Place), perform detail cleaning in task areas. Wash lab utensils and glassware; assist with other clean-up activities
  • Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
  • Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
  • The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required.Other duties may be assigned as required

Education and Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Post-secondary education related to food science, biological science, or related sciences preferred
  • 1 to 3 years of food manufacturing, laboratory, food testing, quality assurance, and/or related work experience
  • Certification and/or License - may be required during course of employment such as Better Processing Certificate, state certification for antibiotic testing, etc.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of and skill with applicable laboratory equipment
  • Able to use Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
  • Able to use and understand calculations used for laboratory analysis
  • Able to follow laboratory procedures and state and federal regulations regarding the testing of applicable products
  • Able to keep good records (record keeping skill)
  • Able to follow directions
  • Able to work with accuracy and attention to detail
  • Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
  • Able to work in collaboration, foster good teamwork, and promptly share relevant information with others
  • Able to identify problems, take appropriate steps to find solutions to problems, and implement solutions
  • Able to perform task and duties under general supervision
  • Must be able to read, write and speak English

COMPENSATION

Pay - $30.92 - $38.65

*** Lab Technicians must have a degree or rate is ($3.00 less than the published rate)

Paid holidays

Paid vacations

Paid Sick

Health Benefits

401k

EAP program

EAP

An Equal Opportunity Employer