Lab Tech - Cortland - Days (D1 - 6am-430pm)

Laboratory Technician

Why Byrne

At Byrne, we foster a culture built on teamwork, excellence, and professionalism. Our greatest strength lies in the exceptional talent and dedication of our team members across every part of the organization. We value their contributions and ensure they’re recognized, rewarded, and compensated in ways that reflect their impact and expertise.

Pay and Benefits

• Salary Range – $24.50-$34.00 per hour


• Competitive bonus programs


• Medical, Dental, Vision benefits available day 1 of employment


• Supplemental benefits available on day 30 of employment


• Eligible for 401 (k) with a company match available on day 90 of employment


• Educational Support via tuition reimbursement and scholarship program

Work Shift and Location

3156 Byrne Hollow Crossing Cortland, NY 13045

6am-430pm rotating weekend schedule

Job Overview

The Laboratory Technician plays a key role in executing assigned quality tasks. This includes setting up, operating, cleaning, and troubleshooting production equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological testing on raw milk, finished dairy products, and processing equipment to detect harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria while conducting plate counts, pathogen screening, and shelf-life studies to ensure products meet safety standards and regulatory requirements.


• Conduct chemical and physical analyses including fat content, protein levels, moisture content, pH measurements, and acidity testing using laboratory instruments such as spectrophotometers, titrators, and analytical balances to verify product specifications and nutritional labeling accuracy.


• Collect samples from various production stages including incoming raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods following proper sampling protocols and chain of custody procedures while maintaining sample integrity and traceability throughout the testing process.


• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment such as incubators, autoclaves, microscopes, and chromatography systems while performing routine calibrations, quality control checks, and preventive maintenance to ensure accurate and reliable test results.


• Document all test results, observations, and non-conformances in laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and prepare detailed reports for quality assurance teams, regulatory agencies, and production management while maintaining compliance with FDA and USDA documentation requirements.


• Investigate product quality issues and customer complaints by conducting root cause analysis, performing additional testing protocols, and collaborating with production teams to identify corrective actions while ensuring all testing procedures follow established standard operating procedures and Good Laboratory Practices. 

Min. Qualifications

• Minimum of GED or High School Diploma is required.


• Associates degree in dairy/food sciences or equivalent highly preferred


• 1-2 years’ experience in similar food industry lab setting highly preferred.

Byrne

Headquartered in LaFayette, Byrne is a Central New York-based dairy company with a legacy spanning over 90 years. Its operations include an extended shelf-life (ESL) and ultra-high temperature (UHT) pasteurization plant in DeWitt, as well as an ESL manufacturing facility in Cortlandville. Byrne also maintains warehouse facilities in Syracuse and East Syracuse, along with a dedicated ice cream center in Syracuse. As a recognized industry leader, Byrne continues to drive innovation at the forefront of dairy processing and product development