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Milk Lab Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$18.72 - $22/hr

This is the entry-level, non-certified laboratory technician position for Consolidated Lab Services ... Preferred: laboratory experience, especially in food or milk * Obtaining certifications is ...

Lab Technician

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$18.72 - $22/hr

This is the entry-level, non-certified laboratory technician position for Consolidated Lab Services ... Preferred: laboratory experience, especially in food or milk * Obtaining certifications is ...

Milk Lab information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$20

$30

How much do milk lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for milk lab in Tennessee is $20.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 cities in Tennessee are hiring for Milk Lab jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Milk Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Milk Lab job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Part Time, and 67% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,534 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Lab Technician

Knoxville, TN โ€ข On-site

Dairiconcepts, L.P.
Food and Drink Manufacturingย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

$18.72 - $22/hr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

General Purpose:

This is the entry-level, non-certified laboratory technician position for Consolidated Lab Services (CLS). Works under the guidance of certified laboratory technicians and conducts analyses in accordance with approved methods and procedures to ensure analytical data meets the highest standards for accuracy and precision.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Safely lift, move, or reposition filled coolers weighing up to 75lbs.
  • Record AM & PM temperatures for multiple incubators and refrigerators.
  • Assist certified analysts in sample sorting, routing all samples to the appropriate locations.
  • Learn to perform all laboratory procedures.
  • Prepare daily, weekly, and greater laboratory reagents for use.
  • Maintain clean and safe work areas.
  • Comply with laboratory hazardous and non-hazardous waste disposal plan.
  • Analyze samples accurately and in a timely manner under the supervisor of a certified analyst.
  • Maintain analytical equipment according to manufacturers' recommendations and Laboratory SOP's
  • Communicate pertinent information regarding the daily workings of the laboratory.
  • In coordination with Senior Technicians and Lab Supervisor, maintain an adequate inventory of consumable supplies.
  • Flexible, full-time, work schedule as required to accommodate business needs (weekends, holidays).
  • Assist lab management in special projects.
  • Participate in annual NCIMS and Appendix N certifications.
  • 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.

Schedule:Thursday-Monday 7:00 am-3:30 pm

Pay range:$18.72-22/hour

Education and Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Preferred: Associates or bachelor's degree in food or Dairy Science, Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related field
  • Preferred: laboratory experience, especially in food or milk
  • Obtaining certifications is mandatory for continued employment in this position

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Must have basic math, laboratory, and computer skills
  • Must have clear written and verbal communication skills
  • Must be able to work most weekends and holidays
  • Ability to work as part of a team or independently with full or limited supervision
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer


Dairiconcepts logo

About Dairiconcepts

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DairiConcepts, based in Springfield, Missouri, US, is a leader in the food industry, particularly in the dairy sector. Officially hosted at dfaingredients.com, the company was established as a joint venture between Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) and Fonterra in 2000, later becoming wholly owned by DFA in 2016. Specializing in the production of elevated dairy ingredients and cheese and dairy flavors, DairiConcepts is known for supplying custom-developed products to food industry customers throughout the globe. In line with their mission, the company prides itself on innovation, customer focus, and professionalism, continually striving to ensure quality and safety while developing new and delicious dairy products for the market.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, MO, US