Laboratory Assistant - Food Microbiology

Ontario University Athletics; Guelph; On-site; CAD 52,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Guelph is seeking a Laboratory Assistant in Food Microbiology within the AFL Analytical Biology Unit. The role is a temporary full-time position in Guelph, ON, supporting fast-paced microbiology workflows and quality systems.

Responsibilities include sample preparation, microbial detection and QA/QC activities, with an emphasis on accuracy, safety, and timely reporting. Prior lab experience and ISO 17025 familiarity are noted requirements.

Qualifications

• Two-year college program in a relevant science field and up to one year of related lab experience.
• Demonstrated ISO 17025 experience in a microbiology lab.
• Strong ability to process diverse sample types and work independently in a client-focused, time-sensitive environment.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and good organizational abilities.

Responsibilities

• Prepare food and environmental samples for microbiological testing and assist with detection, isolation, and enumeration of micro-organisms.
• Perform pH, moisture content analyses and enter results into the LIMS per protocols.
• Assist in QA/QC activities and maintain safety and cleanliness in the lab.
• Support with equipment, reagents, and supply ordering; help maintain ISO 17025 compliance.

Skills

Self-motivation

Communication

QA/QC

WHMIS

Education

Two-year college program in science

Job description

Laboratory Assistant - Food Microbiology

Location:

Guelph, ON, CA, N1G 2W1

Primary Category Page: Staff and Management

Division: LSD Agriculture and Food Laboratory

Department:LSD AFL Analytical Biology Unit
Position covered by the Collective Agreement with USW Local 4120

Temporary full-time from 09/11/2026to09/10/2027
Temporary Absence of the Regular Incumbent

General Purpose

This is an opportunity to work at the Agriculture and Food Laboratory (AFL), which is a laboratory partner of choice for government and universities in Canada, for agriculture, food safety, and animal health testing, and is a leader in providing high-value analytic and diagnostic services to the private sector in selected niche markets. As a values-based organization, with the mission of working together toward a healthier future and improving life, we are searching for a Laboratory Assistant in our Food Microbiology Section, who will work with the lab team to support the Division’s values: Client Centered, Integrity, Individuals Matter, Shared Responsibility, and Committed to Evolving.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Laboratory Assistant will work with time-sensitive samples in a fast–paced, high-volume environment. Primary duties include: preparation of food and environmental samples for microbiological testing and assisting laboratory technicians in detection, isolation, identification and enumeration of food-borne micro-organisms using standard microbiological procedures and advanced state of the art automated systems. The position is also responsible for pH, water and moisture content analyses, enumeration of microbial colonies and entering results in LIMS following established protocols and to appropriate quality standards. Other duties include: assisting with preparation of reagents, culture media, sterilization of materials and quality controls and monitoring, ordering and receiving supplies, preparing purchase orders and cost analysis; assisting in maintaining QA/QC in the work area following ISO 17025 requirements; and maintaining safety, cleanliness and efficiency in the lab.

Requirements

• Two-year community college program from a relevant science program combined with up to one-year related laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated experience within an ISO 17025 accredited microbiology lab;
• Demonstrated experience in processing various type of samples;
• Proven self-motivation to work independently and to set/meet priorities within a client-focused, time-sensitive work environment;
• Demonstrated interpersonal and organizational skills;
• Excellent oral and written communication skills to effectively work with co-workers within a busy team environment and to resolve conflicting priorities;
• Understanding of QA/QC requirements, laboratory safety practices and WHMIS as applied within a microbiology laboratory environment.

Candidates must be physically able to repeatedly conduct the diverse range of motions required for a wide variety of activities and lift up to 30 lbs as needed.

Employee Type: Regular
Position Number:10485079
Classification: USW, Local 4120 Salary:Band 3
USW Local 4120 Wage Grid

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 09/02/2026
Closing Date:09/09/2026