Lab Technician

Company: Bay State Milling Company
Location: Platteville
Posted on: February 19, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Essential Job Functions: Evaluate and prioritize incoming samples for testing procedures. Evaluate samples for color versus standard samples through standardized slicking methods. Evaluate samples for enrichment and bromate treatments through standardized testing procedures. Composite, apply proper treatments, and send approval samples to customers. Collect and send samples for monthly check samples and to outside labs for analysis. Evaluate dough qualities through running and evaluation of farinograph curves. Prepare samples for experimental milling. Perform experimental milling procedure and evaluate milling characteristics. Perform standardized granulation and evaluate results on selected samples. Perform standardized grit test and evaluate results on selected samples. Empty flour samples from file shelves and cabinets. Complete product analysis sheets on outgoing shipments. Any other task assigned by Quality Assurance Manager or designate. ANALYTICAL & BAKING Weigh proper amount of sample and run physical evaluation for moisture, ash, and protein on submitted samples submitted to quality assurance laboratory for evaluation. Make solutions for running physical ash and protein, malt index levels, bromate and enrichment spot tests. Perform standardized alveograph test and evaluate results. Inspect incoming grain samples for insect infestation. Perform standardized FNV test and NIR protein on incoming grain samples. Evaluate all incoming grain for rejection/acceptance. Perform preventative maintenance, cleaning, and basic repairs to lab equipment. Evaluate appropriate samples for moisture, ash, and protein using NIR instrumentation. Ability to use analytical balance on a daily basis. Any other task assigned by Quality Assurance Manager or designate. Perform standardized vomitoxin screening and evaluate results. Perform standardized filth analysis tests and evaluate results. Perform standardized baking tests to evaluate incoming grain samples (experimental milling samples), competitive samples, complaint samples, productions samples, and samples submitted from other Bay State Milling Company locations. Perform standardized baking tests to evaluate new ingredients, new treatment levels, and new product lines. QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily in the time allowed. 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. EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE Minimum requirement is a high school diploma or equivalent. Must possess excellent communication skills. Fluent computer skills with a strong emphasis on P.C. based spreadsheet programs. LANGUAGE SKILLS Must speak fluent English as the primary language. Must have the ability to read, analyze, and interpret memos, general business communications, technical procedures, and governmental regulations and/or labels. Must have the ability to write in English and complete reports. MATHEMATICAL SKILLS Must posses the ability to work with mathematical concepts and apply concepts such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to analytical situations. REASONING ABILITY Must posses the ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Must have the ability to interpret technical instruction in mathematical or diagram form and deal with multiple tests operating at any given time. PHYSICAL DEMANDS While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use their hands to lift, handle, or feel; and to reach with hands and arms. The employee must be able to communicate verbally and nonverbally. The employee is required to stand, walk, and bend a large percentage of the workday. The employee will be required to go into the manufacturing plant to sample, inspect, investigate, or assist with the operation on a daily basis. The Laboratory Technician must lift and/or move up to 30 pounds on an occasional basis. Specific vision abilities required by this job include both close and distance vision. WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment is essentially that of a laboratory. However, work in the mill and warehouse will require extended periods of exposure to high noise and dust levels. Frequent contact with office personnel will also occur. While performing the duties of this job, the Laboratory Technician is frequently exposed to a variety of chemicals, including acids, reducing agents, and bases, small to medium sized moving mechanical parts, flour dust and/or airborne particles. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, but areas of the plant may reach 100 dB. Ear protection, safety glasses, dust masks are provided for the employees safety. The laboratory is an air-conditioned environment but the employee will be exposed to manufacturing temperatures that will exceed 100 Degree's F. SAFETY While performing the essential job functions, the employee is expected to work in a safe manner and to follow/change company policies regarding safety. It is the expectation and responsibility of the employee to report any and all injuries immediately to the General Manager and to resolve any safety situation that is substandard and poses a risk for employee injury, property damage or loss. FOOD SAFETY / SECURITY REQUIREMENTS: The Company is committed to producing and delivering defect-free products. To ensure this, all employees are required to be trained on and adhere to the Good Manufacturing Policies set forth by the Company as they pertain to personnel practices, equipment, and facilities. It is also vital that all employees be aware of the work environment and when possible, prevent accidental or intentional adulteration of products produced at this facility. As a result any employee has a right to put product on hold if they have a concern. At the plant level, only the Quality Assurance Manager and General Manager have the authority to release product on hold.

Keywords: Bay State Milling Company, Thornton , Lab Technician, Science, Research & Development , Platteville, Colorado