Laboratory Technician

About the role

We have great opportunity for a Laboratory Technician in our Kerry site in Charleville, Co. Cork.

This is a full time, permanent role 

Hours of work involve a 3 cycle shift pattern consisting of 0800 - 1600 / 1600 - 1200 / 1200- 0800 plus shift allowance of 25%.

The hours may change in the summer to 12 hour shifts working 4 on 4 off (2 days and 2 nights)

The Laboratory Technician is based in our Powder Lab, within Milk intake. You will be responsible for testing and analysing product samples to ensure that the quality standards are met. Any previous experience as Lab Assistant, Lab Analyst, Quality Technician or QC Technician will be advantageous. 

What will I be doing?

· Testing and analysing raw materials, WIP and finished product samples.

· Carrying out all laboratory activities in line with GLP and in-house requirements.

· Assisting with ensuring the laboratory is always adequately stocked with the consumables necessary to carry out the required analyses.

· Recording all data relevant to each test, and results and keeping all records up to date, clear and legible.

· Performing basic instrument calibration, maintenance and completion of associated records.

· Preparation of swabs and environmental swabbing and testing.

· Management of shelf-life samples.

· Work with production and quality team on root cause analysis.

· Maintaining the laboratory in a clean and well organised status.

· Participation in audits (internal and external) and inspections.

What do I need to be successful?

· Science based degree in a relevant area i.e Food Science, nutrition, biology, analytical chemistry etc or relevant laboratory experience is a requirement.

· Good standard of PC literacy (Excel, Word) - SAP would be an advantage.

· Analytical and logical approach with excellent attention to detail.

· Keen interest in food science and food safety.

· Ability to thrive under pressure and work well as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

· Good written and verbal communication skills.

· Flexibility and willingness to learn.

· Effective oral and written communication skills

· Ability to work well independently and within a team.

· Continuous improvement mindset.

· Proactive approach to troubleshooting.

· Detail orientated.

About the Dairy Business

Kerry Dairy Ireland is a vertically integrated farm-to-fork business with a very substantial consumer foods presence and a leading nutritional and dairy ingredients division, delivering high-quality dairy solutions with a focus on sustainability and innovation. From partnering with local family farms to producing world-class dairy products, we ensure every step of our value chain reflects our commitment to excellence.

With over 50 years’ experience in milk processing, dairy and nutritional technology advancement, and product innovation, we are a key stakeholder in the global food industry and creators of a strong portfolio of market leading dairy brands including Cheestrings, Charleville and Coleraine Cheese, Dairygold, Golden Cow and our new SMUG range. Our from food, for food culture and deep-rooted connection to our 2,800 milk suppliers differentiates our business and offers captivating opportunities for our customers and consumers.

Our dairy comes from some of the world’s richest grazing land and is produced by a network of Irish family farms that have one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world. Through a combination of expertise, innovation, and sustainability, Kerry Dairy Ireland is proud to shape the future of dairy while meeting the diverse needs of our farmers, customers, and communities.

Headquartered in Tralee, Co. Kerry, we operate multiple manufacturing facilities in the southwest of Ireland, including Listowel, Charleville, Newmarket, and Farranfore. Additionally, we manage 29 Farm & Home stores throughout the region, ensuring comprehensive coverage and service. In Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom, our presence extends to key locations in Portadown, Coleraine, and Ossett.

Globally, Kerry Dairy Ireland employs over 1,600 dedicated professionals across Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK, USA, Netherlands, Spain, Germany, and China. In 2024, we achieved a turnover of approximately €1.3 billion, reflecting our commitment to excellence and growth.