ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Milk Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

California Dairies, Inc.

Receiver, Milk

Turlock, CA · On-site

Job Summary Primary responsibilities are to safely run the Milk Lab/Milk Unloading Bays and related equipment. Raw receiving is responsible for receiving all fluid dairy products and loading out all ...

Midway Staffing

$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 ...

Nestle

Operator Laboratory- Relief

Modesto, CA · On-site

$25.13/hr

The Lab Operator responsabilities include to test and standardize all finished product prior to ... This person also completes a batch standardizing reports for all milk processed daily as well as ...

Sartori

Lab Tech I - Crescent City

Crescent City, CA · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Maintains a high level of accuracy and precision when performing lab tests, recording results, and ... Obtain California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Milk and Cream Testers license within ...

Sartori Company

Intake Operator CC

Crescent City, CA · On-site

$43K - $49K/yr

Oversees all aspects of the Intake lab antibiotic testing equipment * Follows procedures for handling and documenting positive antibiotic milk loads. * Follows all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs ...

Sartori

Lab Tech I - Crescent City

Crescent City, CA · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

Maintains a high level of accuracy and precision when performing lab tests, recording results, and ... Obtain California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Milk and Cream Testers license within ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMilk Lab JobsMilk Lab Jobs in California

Milk Lab information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do milk lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for milk lab in California is $22.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced in a milk lab and how can new team members effectively address them?

In a Milk Lab, common challenges include maintaining strict quality control standards, operating specialized testing equipment accurately, and managing time-sensitive tasks, especially during busy collection periods. New team members can address these by becoming thoroughly familiar with lab protocols, actively seeking guidance from experienced colleagues, and practicing precise documentation. Strong communication skills and attention to detail will also help ensure smooth workflow and reliable results in collaboration with the broader dairy operations team.

What is a milk lab and what does a milk lab technician do?

A Milk Lab is a specialized facility within hospitals, especially neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), where human milk is safely prepared, stored, and sometimes fortified for premature or ill infants. Milk Lab technicians are responsible for handling, processing, labeling, and tracking breast milk and donor milk to ensure it meets strict safety and nutritional standards. Their role is critical in supporting the health of vulnerable newborns by minimizing risks of contamination and ensuring accurate nutrition delivery.

What is the difference between Milk Lab vs Milk Technician?

AspectMilk Lab
CertificationsTypically requires food science or dairy processing certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting focused on product testing and quality control
Industry UsageUsed mainly in dairy product development and quality assurance
Job FocusResearch, formulation, and lab testing of dairy products

Milk Lab roles are primarily involved in research and development within dairy laboratories, focusing on product formulation and quality testing. Milk Technicians often work in processing plants, handling production, and ensuring product standards. While both roles require knowledge of dairy products, Milk Lab positions emphasize laboratory skills and product innovation, whereas Milk Technicians focus on production processes and operational tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a milk lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Milk Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, microbiology, and food safety standards, often supported by a degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems), and quality control certifications such as HACCP are typically necessary. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help ensure accuracy and effective reporting of results. These competencies are crucial for maintaining product quality, regulatory compliance, and overall safety in dairy production environments.
What are popular job titles related to Milk Lab jobs in California? For Milk Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Milk Lab jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Milk Lab jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Milk Lab jobs? Cities in California with the most Milk Lab job openings:
Milk Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Milk Lab job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,250 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Receiver, Milk

California Dairies, Inc.

Turlock, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

California Dairies rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

230th of 435 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Join the California Dairies, Inc. (CDI) team, a farmer-owned cooperative dedicated to sustainably producing the highest quality dairy products while fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. CDI products are delivered locally and around the world. Situated in Stanislaus County, our Turlock South manufacturing plant specializes in the production of butter and milk powder. We encourage you to be part of our team that's shaping the future of dairy, right from the heart of California!
Our commitment to CDI employees:
We believe in valuing our team with a total rewards package that goes beyond the basics. You'll find we offer competitive pay and incentive programs designed to recognize and reward your contributions. Competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits, generous paid time off, sick days & holidays, retirement plans designed to secure your future. We don't stop there. We've also cultivated a variety of valuable programs focused on your personal well-being and professional growth, ensuring you have the support you need to both inside and outside of work.
Job Summary
Primary responsibilities are to safely run the Milk Lab/Milk Unloading Bays and related equipment. Raw receiving is responsible for receiving all fluid dairy products and loading out all fluid dairy products. A receiver must ensure proper weights, tests, and samples are taken from every tanker shipped or received. This position is responsible for all clean up, master sanitation, raw CIP, inspections, and the movement of dairy products.
Essential Functions
  • Responsible for receiving all incoming fluid dairy products.
  • Responsible for shipping out all fluid dairy products.
  • Test all products prior to receiving and shipping.
  • CIP UT`s, RT`s, receiving lines, and raw tankers.
  • Responsible for CCP and "Corrective actions" in raw receiving.
  • Responsible for CCP # 101 Bio-Security.
  • Responsible for CCP # 102 Drug Residue Testing. Runs all necessary controls and calibrations for the Charm SL and Charm II.
  • Pulls all required samples.
  • Runs the Charm SL and Charm II on every load and tanker. Lists the results on the receiving log.
  • Assures all listings on the receiving log are correct.
  • Responsible for connecting, disconnecting and CIPing all trucks. Connects to raw silos as needed.
  • Connects the receiving hose, opens and installs the Runo vents on the tanker lid, opens the outlet valve and pumps milk upon completion of the antibiotic test.
  • Connects and transfers product internally within the plant. For example; pump buttermilk, cream, etc.
  • Inspect inside of tankers (after wash) for deficiencies and cleanliness.
  • Disconnects the transfer hose after pumping milk.
  • Performs solution strength tests on the CIP systems.
  • Maintains the CIP room raw silo room is neat, clean and orderly.
  • Assists in receiving of all incoming loads, such as cream, condense, etc.
  • This position is required to perform all master sanitation items, including cleanup of the receiving office, the receiving bays and other Master Sanitation items as assigned by the shift supervisor.
  • Inspect tanks, tankers and equipment as assigned by a production supervisor.
  • Efficiently and effectively transfer standardized milk to evaporator process.
  • Operate, monitor and manage R.O.'s and separators including CIP, and associated pieces of equipment.
  • Measure, test, evaluate & screen standardized milk and milk ingredients.
  • Continuously learn more about milk, milk processing equipment and how to expedite milk throughout the standardization process in preparation for deliveries to evaporator process.
  • Notify/communicate to management/maintenance any problems with equipment or processes that could affect the product integrity or quality, or that could impose a possible safety hazard.
  • Manager inventories of milk and milk ingredients to maintain flow of product through facility.
  • Planning future milk shipments based on weekly production schedule.
  • Correctly and accurately fill out all bills of ladings.
  • Responsible for maintaining production equipment, valves, pumps, and connections.
  • Responsible for maintaining work environment cleanliness.
  • Responsible for proper product handling to ensure minimum product loss.
  • Responsible for understanding and conducting CIP's and other cleaning steps according to plant procedures.
  • Act quickly to reduce or eliminate product loss.
  • Responsible for training new hires and employees as needed.
  • Assist with break and lunch relief as needed.
  • Responsible for all work being done in a timely fashion and done properly.
  • Maintain regular and reliable attendance at work.
  • Complete all paperwork neatly and correctly.
  • Responsible for keeping all floors, walls, machines, and pipes clean.
  • Support and enforce SQF / QA, GMP, Safety policies and procedures, and production needs. "Food Safety and Quality" are the responsibilities of this position.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)
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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Ability to learn and operate computer related controls for metering systems.
  • Must be able to work in a quick and efficient manner.
  • Must be able to work in a safe manner and follow all safety procedures.
  • Must have the ability to get along with co-workers, management personnel, customers, vendors, and employees in accordance with the company policies and working rules while ensuring a harmonious and conducive work environment.
  • Must demonstrate good judgement when carrying out duties as assigned.
  • Must have the ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions given in written, oral, or diagram form. Must have the ability to discern when issues may require input from levels of authority within the corporation.
  • Must have the ability to read and understand written and/or verbal instructions.
  • Basic math and statistical skills.
  • Must be able to troubleshoot equipment and problems.
  • Must demonstrate the ability to run equipment efficiently.
  • Good technical skills with ability to disassemble and assemble equipment.
  • Must have the ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.

Education and/or Experience
  • High school diploma or General Education Degree (GED) is required.
  • One to three months related experience and/or training.

Language Skills
  • English is required as the written and spoken language.
  • A well-modulated tonal volume is required with excellent diction skills needed.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
  • Must possess or be able to acquire and maintain a State of California Limited Sampler's and Weigher's license.
  • Must possess or be able to acquire and maintain a forklift operator license.
  • Must possess or be able to acquire and maintain a state of California Charm Test certification.

Driving Requirements
  • Must possess or be able to acquire a state issued Driver's License.

Equipment
  • Personal protective equipment including, but not limited to hearing protection, bump caps, hair and beard nets, gloves, and safety glasses must be used in the performance of duties. Proper lifting techniques must be employed at all times.
  • General knowledge of manufacturing equipment and processes.

Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The company will make reasonable accommodations that do not cause an undue hardship if such an accommodation enables individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
  • Required to climb stairs, ladders and work in confined spaces.
  • An employee may encounter the following: ammonia, acids, caustics, chlorines, paints, particles, oils and lubricants, steam, pneumatics, fumes and hazardous gases, sealing compounds.
  • The use of non-slip footwear is necessary due to slippery and wet floors.
  • The use of rubber gloves is necessary to perform job functions.
  • Constantly subjected to moving mechanical parts.
  • Employee will be subject to temperatures ranging from 50 degrees F to 130 degrees F.
  • Working area is noisy and may require that hearing protection be worn at all times.
  • May be required to enter a confined space.

ADA/FEHA
The Company will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and California's Fair Employment and Housing Act.
EEO
The Company is an equal employment opportunity employer.
Physical Demands
The physical requirements outlined here represent those necessary for successful performance of this position's core responsibilities. Upon request, the company will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities to perform these fundamental job duties, provided such accommodations do not create an undue burden on the organization.
  • Sitting/Standing/Walking: Each workday, the receiver will do all three. Must be able to stand on feet for at least a two-hour consecutive time period and up to 8-12 hours.
  • Lifting/Carrying: Each workday, the receiver lifts up to 58 pounds on a repetitive basis. He will be expected, each workday to carry 58 pounds on a repetitive basis. Occasional lifting/carrying above 58 pounds may be required as well.
  • Pushing/Pulling: Each workday, the receiver frequently pushes and pulls up to, but not limited to, 58 pounds in a repetitive manner.
  • Bending/Stooping: Each workday, the receiver will bend and stoop often.
  • Squatting/Kneeling/Crawling: Each workday, the receiver will sometimes squat. Occasional kneeling/crawling may be required.
  • Twisting/Turning: Each workday, the receiver will often twist and turn while carrying.
  • Climbing/Balancing: Each workday, the receiver will occasionally climb and/or balance.
  • Reaching: Each workday, the receiver will frequently reach in a repetitive manner.
  • Grasping/Manipulating: Each workday, the receiver will frequently grasp and manipulate in a repetitive manner.

Fraudulent Recruiting Scam Disclaimer
To all applicants: We take your safety and privacy seriously at California Dairies Inc. All job applicants are directed to apply only through the official career pages. Please be aware that our talent team will never ask for any form of payment, financial account details, or sensitive personal information such as social security numbers. If you receive any suspicious messages claiming to be from California Dairies Inc., please contact us at talent@californiadaires.com. U.S. residents can get more information from the FTC at https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/job-scams.
The pay range is listed below and represents a good faith estimate upon hire. The final offer will depend on factors such as the candidates experience, skills, and qualifications.

What California Dairies employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply