QA Lab Microbiology Technician - Front Half Grave Shift

Reviewed: 11/13/2024 rlw Title: QA Microbiology Technician Dept: QA Reports to: QA Shift Lead FLSA: Non-exempt Position Summary: Responsible for applying microbiological methods to ensure the safety of incubation samples prior to releasing products. Responsible for reporting results and communicating issues related to incubation testing to management. Responsible for applying microbiological methods to assist in projects and investigations as needed. Responsible for abiding by and ensuring all food safety and quality protocols are followed. Essential Functions • Apply basic microbiological methods including streak plating, gram staining, pour plating, spread plating, petrifilm plating, serial dilutions, etc. • Operate the D-count rapid testing systems for the purpose of verifying sterility in incubation samples. • Assure that product conforms to post-process pH and micro testing standards. • Play a key role in investigating product safety issues from the microbiological perspective. • Operate a pH meter. This includes calibration and maintenance. • Monitor the temperature of the incubation rooms. • Calibrate and verify lab equipment as required. • Maintain accurate records of all test results in the appropriate logs. • Responsible for updating daily incubation reports and QPA database. • Maintain a clean and organized work area. Secondary Functions • Assist in testing resampled/held product. • Assist in testing pre-process product for microbial load through basic methods such as aerobic plate counts. • Assist in the evaluation of package integrity on defective packages. • Perform other duties as assigned. Supervisory responsibilities: This position is not supervisory in nature. Knowledge, skills and abilities: • Familiar with the basics of cell and colony morphology • Familiar with basic microbiology methods including but not limited to gram staining, aerobic plate counts, streak plating, pour plating, and serial dilutions. • Meticulous attention to detail • Proficiency in computer applications including Microsoft Excel, Sharepoint, and Word. • Ability to push and pull up to 150 lbs and lift/carry up to 35 pounds frequently • Requires commitment to objectives of the organization • Outstanding organizational skills, ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, and prioritize tasks throughout the day. Reviewed: 11/13/2024 rlw Title: QA Microbiology Technician Dept: QA Reports to: QA Shift Lead FLSA: Non-exempt • Ability to operate with moderate supervision, be detail oriented, and exercise independent judgment • Strong ability to communicate with team through a variety of means including personal, email, and instant messaging. • Strong interpersonal communication skills including the ability to read, write, speak and understand the English language Minimum qualifications: Scientific based bachelor’s degree required. Microbiology/Biology based degree a plus. Six to twelve months of relevant experience, preferably in a food manufacturing or microbiology lab setting a plus.