Entomologist

Michelson Laboratories, Inc; Commerce (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Michelson Laboratories, Inc. in Commerce, California is seeking an experienced Entomologist to support the decomposition and entomology department.

This role collaborates with the chemistry team and leadership to ensure quality, improve turnaround times, and deliver accurate results to clients. The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's degree in Entomology with 4+ years of lab experience, strong knowledge of entomology, AOAC and regulatory standards, and excellent communication skills for client

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Entomology required.
• Strong knowledge of entomology, sensory analysis, and laboratory best practices.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume laboratory environment.
• Ability to work overtime when required.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily entomology laboratory workload to ensure efficiency, productivity, and timely reporting of results.
• Partner with laboratory leadership to improve processes, optimize turnaround times, and support continued growth.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Analyze food samples using microscopic and macroscopic and sensory techniques while following AOAC, FDA LIB and other recognized methodologies.
• Troubleshoot analytical methods, testing procedures, and laboratory instrumentation as needed.
• Ensure proper sample handling, extraction, preparation, testing, documentation, and disposition
• Maintain compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation requirements, laboratory quality systems, SOPs, and regulatory standards.
• Perform and oversee QA/QC activities involving reagents, supplies, and laboratory processes.
• Review and approve laboratory certificates and final reports.
• Consult with clients regarding test selection and result interpretation.
• Ensure accurate recordkeeping and compliance with all laboratory safety procedures.

Job description

Michelson Laboratories has been a trusted leader in food testing and analytical services since 1970. Serving food manufacturers, distributors, importers, retailers, and regulatory stakeholders throughout Southern California and beyond. We are committed to delivering accurate results, exceptional service, and rapid turnaround times that help our clients protect consumers and maintain regulatory compliance. As an ISO/IEC 17025 and ELAP accredited laboratory, Michelson Laboratories maintains the highest standards of scientific excellence, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Entomologist for our decomposition and entomology department in Commerce, California. This position works with others in the decomposition & entomology and chemistry departments and plays a critical role in ensuring laboratory quality, operational efficiency and client satisfaction. This is an excellent opportunity for a proven laboratory leader who is passionate about food safety & quality and thrives in a fast-paced environment where scientific excellence and customer service are equally valued.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily entomology laboratory workload to ensure efficiency, productivity, and timely reporting of results.
• Partner with laboratory leadership to improve processes, optimize turnaround times, and support continued growth.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Analyze food samples using microscopic and macroscopic and sensory techniques while following AOAC, FDA LIB and other recognized methodologies.
• Troubleshoot analytical methods, testing procedures, and laboratory instrumentation as needed.
• Ensure proper sample handling, extraction, preparation, testing, documentation, and disposition
• Maintain compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation requirements, laboratory quality systems, SOPs, and regulatory standards.
• Perform and oversee QA/QC activities involving reagents, supplies, and laboratory processes.
• Review and approve laboratory certificates and final reports.
• Consult with clients regarding test selection and result interpretation.
• Ensure accurate recordkeeping and compliance with all laboratory safety procedures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Entomology.
• Strong knowledge of Entomology, sensory analysis and laboratory best practices.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume laboratory environment.
• Ability to work overtime when required.

Required Skills

• 4+ years of entomological laboratory experience, preferably in food testing laboratory setting.
• Strong knowledge of FDA, USDA, AOAC, and filth in food testing methodologies.
• Hands-on experience with microscopic and macroscopic insect identification.

Preferred Skills

• Join a respected laboratory with more than 50 years of industry leadership
• Work within a robust ISO/IEC 17025 and ELAP accredited quality system.
• Make a direct impact on food safety and public health.
• Collaborate with experienced scientific professionals in a growing organization.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Michelson Laboratories, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are valued and respected. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.