Position: Quality Technician
Location: Lethbridge
Status: Contract position ending in December 2026
Reporting To: Quality Manager
About Us:
Welcome to Lactalis Canada! We’re proud to be Canada’s #1 branded dairy company and to be consistently recognized as one of the country’s top employers by Forbes. Our purpose is to enrich and nurture the lives of Canadians by offering the best of dairy from Canada’s favourite dairy brands like Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, Balderson, Astro and Lactantia. In fact, our products can be found in over 90% of Canadian refrigerators in any given time. As part of Lactalis Group, the world’s leading dairy company, we remain focused on innovation and quality and are seeking like-minded individuals to join us as we continue our growth journey.
About the opportunity:
As a member of the Quality Team the Quality Technician is responsible for all aspects of product testing and monitoring of production environment quality to ensure that products meet food and quality specifications. Duties are performed through the use of equipment, auditing techniques, inspection, and testing method. In addition, responsible for HACCP and QSL program support, CCP verification, and documentation management.
*** Shift schedule for this role will be 6:00pm-02:30am Sunday -Thursday.
This schedule is subject to change based on production demands.***
The attributes we are looking for:
· Perform analytical and microbiological, chemistry, and sensorial testing and analysis of in-process and finished product samples according to approved standard operating procedures. Record and evaluate test data and notify the Quality Manager of any deviations from the prescribed product specifications. Conduct root cause analysis and determine the necessary corrective action.
· Verify cheese moisture parameters during production and communicate any deviations or issues to Production Supervisor/Manager where applicable.
· Conduct screening and monitoring tests on raw milk, raw cream and other raw materials upon receipt where applicable.
· Plan, supervise and monitor SQF, CFIA, Organic, Kosher and customers audits
· Plan, supervise and monitor corporate internal audits, as well as joint internal audits
· Act as a contact person between the CFIA, SQF, Kosher and the plant
· Perform an annual reassessment of HACCP and SQF quality systems and prerequisite programs
· Perform internal audits on various plant programs and support QSL and HACCP documentation management. Participate with Quality Manager in implementing new standard requirements.
· Administer the plant’s Environmental Monitoring and Water Quality programs (sampling, testing, recording and evaluating data) in compliance with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and/or Ministry of the Environment operational requirements.
· Organize and conduct shelf-life evaluation of specified products.
· Perform preventative maintenance and calibration of laboratory and plant analytical equipment.
· Organize, test and communicate test results for various product trials that require chemical or microbiological testing.
· Monitor the release of finished product and ensure nonconforming product is not released in accordance with QSL program and procedures.
· Perform administrative duties such as maintain records, forms and logs including computer databases, and performing regular inventory checks and providing the Quality supervisor/Manager with a list of required supplies.
· Participant in Health & Safety Program where applicable.
What you will bring:
· College diploma or university degree in Food Science
· Two (2) to three (3) years’ experience in a dairy food lab
· Knowledge of analytical and microbiological testing with respect to dairy food products and ability to problem solve
· Ability to work independently and in a team environment
· Organizational and time management skills
· Good communication skills
· Proficient with standard office computer technology such as Lotus Notes, Microsoft Office (Word & Excel), as well as business systems such as SAP
· Knowledge of HACCP, PQMS and GMP policies and procedures
What Lactalis will offer:
Lactalis Canada believes in rewarding its people with the following package for contract employees:
· A Competitive Base Salary
· A Retention Bonus of 10% to be paid out at the end of the contract
· 8% vacation pay
· Health & Dental Benefits starting day 1
· Learning and Development opportunities
· Potential for future full time permanent opportunities!
Our ESG commitment:
Our ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) roadmap drives our sustainability mission. We aim to positively impact communities and the planet by enabling stakeholders including our people, consumers, customers, suppliers, dairy farmers, government, and industry partners to have a positive impact on the wellbeing of our communities and the planet through all that we do.
At Lactalis Canada, we value our employees as catalysts for positive change. Together, we will create a sustainable future, promote belonging, and make a lasting impact on the world.
Our commitment to DEI:
Fuel Our Culture with Your Uniqueness! Lactalis thrives on the value each person brings. We're dedicated to amplifying diverse voices, inviting personal and professional growth, and embracing everyone's true selves. We're committed to crafting an environment that genuinely welcomes all, reflecting the richness of our people and communities.
Our promise extends to accessible processes and spaces. If you require accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent), please inform our Talent Acquisition team – confidentiality will be maintained.
Note: Lactalis Canada does not conduct credit or background checks through LinkedIn. If required, we'll contact you after signing a Job Offer.
Compensation:
As part of our commitment to fairness, trust, and transparency and our ambition to be an Employer of Choice, the base salary range for this position is $62,500 – $78,100+.
Please note: Along with a comprehensive Total Rewards package, your actual base salary will be fair, competitive, and be based on your skills, experience, and qualifications.
Pay: $62,500.00-$78,100.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- On-site parking
- Vision care
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Lethbridge, AB T1H 5K3: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Work Location: In person
