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Upstate Farms Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Upstate Farms ® , Bison ® , Milk for Life ® , and Intense Milk ® . Here, you'll support sustainable farming, strong communities, and the mission to deliver fresh, local dairy to families every ...

Upstate Farms ® , Bison ® , Milk for Life ® , and Intense Milk ® . Here, you'll support sustainable farming, strong communities, and the mission to deliver fresh, local dairy to families every ...

Lab Tech

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$31.14/hr

Upstate Farms ® , Bison ® , Milk for Life ® , and Intense Milk ® . Here, you'll support sustainable farming, strong communities, and the mission to deliver fresh, local dairy to families every ...

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Upstate Farms information

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How much do upstate farms jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstate farms in the United States is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the typical work environment like for employees at Upstate Farms?

Employees at Upstate Farms often work in a dynamic, production-oriented environment where teamwork and communication are key. Depending on the specific role, you might work indoors in processing or packaging areas, or outdoors on the farm, handling livestock or crops. While the work can be physically active and sometimes requires early hours or weekend shifts, the team-oriented culture fosters collaboration and continuous learning. Opportunities for advancement are available, especially for those who show initiative and a commitment to quality and safety. Joining Upstate Farms offers the chance to contribute to a well-respected agricultural organization with a strong community focus.

What is an Upstate Farms job?

An Upstate Farms job typically involves working in dairy production, processing, distribution, or sales within the cooperative. Employees may work in various roles, including manufacturing, quality assurance, logistics, or customer service. The company focuses on producing high-quality dairy products while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability and local farmers. Positions may require experience in food production, warehouse operations, or administrative support, depending on the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Upstate Farms position, and why are they important?

To succeed in a position at Upstate Farms, candidates typically need experience in dairy production, agricultural operations, and/or food manufacturing, along with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as pasteurizers, automated packaging systems, and safety protocols like HACCP or SQF certification is often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are valuable soft skills for this environment. These qualifications ensure quality, efficiency, and safety in a fast-paced, collaborative agricultural production setting.

More about Upstate Farms jobs
What cities are hiring for Upstate Farms jobs? Cities with the most Upstate Farms job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Upstate Farms jobs? The most popular types of Upstate Farms jobs are:
What states have the most Upstate Farms jobs? States with the most job openings for Upstate Farms jobs include:
Infographic showing various Upstate Farms job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,421 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Lab Tech

$31.14/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Join a team that nourishes life from farm to table! Upstate Niagara Cooperative, proudly owned by 200+ local family farms, is one of America’s largest and most stable dairy cooperatives. Guided by farmer- and employee-led values, we process and market high-quality milk, yogurt, dips, sour cream, cottage cheese, and more under our trusted brands: Upstate Farms®, Bison®, Milk for Life®, and Intense Milk®. Here, you’ll support sustainable farming, strong communities, and the mission to deliver fresh, local dairy to families every day.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform microbiological, chemical, and physical testing on:
    • Incoming raw materials
    • Work-in-process samples
    • Finished products
  • Accurately document and maintain all testing records
  • Follow established QA procedures and protocols
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and company policies

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field (with chemistry and microbiology coursework)
    OR
    Minimum of 4 years of laboratory experience
  • Strong math, communication, and computer skills
  • Ability to work independently and within a team

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in food testing or dairy industry
  • Knowledge of:
    • Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
    • Statistical Process Control (SPC) plating

Additional Requirements

  • Ability to obtain and maintain NYS Department of Agriculture licenses (Direct Microscopic Count, Drug Residue/Charm SL, Milk Receiver)
  • Willingness to work varied shifts, weekends, and holidays

Compensation & Benefits

This is a union position offering:

  • Health, dental, vision, and prescription insurance
  • Life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

  • Regular standing, walking, bending, and reaching
  • Ability to lift up to 55 lbs regularly and up to 100 lbs occasionally
  • Exposure to cold environments (below 40°F), wet conditions, and production equipment
  • Work with cleaning chemicals (e.g., sodium hydroxide, phosphoric acid) using required PPE
  • Moderate noise levels (hearing protection required in designated areas)

Work Schedule

  • Variable workweek; shift work required
  • Includes weekends and holidays

Condition of Employment

Adherence to all company policies, safety requirements, and federal, state, and local regulations is required.

Pay: $31.14/hr.*

*The hourly rate as indicated in the CBA.  The posted pay rate reflects just one component of our total rewards package. Other components of the total rewards package may include participation in group health and/or dental insurance, retirement plan, paid time away from work, and paid holidays.  

Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc. is committed to equal employment opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic.