Job Summary
Perform analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmentals. The position performs the application and evaluation of approved microbiological techniques and methodologies.
Responsibilities
- Accurately perform and read test results and notify Laboratory Management of deviations
- Prepare and analyze samples for indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemistries
- Apply aseptic/microbiological techniques in daily workload
- Report inventory and expendable supplies/materials needed for testing requirements
- Provide routine preventive maintenance by daily cleaning, sanitizing, trash disposal, and equipment quality control
- Assist in quality duties to by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, running media controls, etc.
- Pursue an assigned series of processes, procedures, or techniques in accordance with FSNS policies/procedures and customer requirements
- Maintain a high degree of technical competence by reading scientific journals, attending professional workshops, and being aware of food industry issues and trends
- Perform all activities in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner
- Share information in an open and timely manner
- Assisting with managing priorities and schedule such that individual goals as well as team goals are achieved with encouraged participation in the Food Safety Net Services Team
- Responsible for the safety of oneself and others working within their area
Education & Experience
- Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or related science field
- 2 or more years of experience in a commercial food-testing or analytical laboratory
- Or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Working knowledge of aseptic sampling technique, automated lab equipment, and acceptable methods and procedures
- Familiarity with GLP, OSHA guidelines, FDA, BAM, APHA, ISO, and USP methods and procedures
- Broad knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures of a food testing laboratory
- Ability to travel when necessary
Physical Demands/Work Environment
- Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse and to handle other communications/computer components
- Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogens
- Noise level varies from quiet to loud
- Temperature varies from hot to cold
- Interactive and fast-paced team oriented tasks
- Overnight Travel is required at the discretion of management
- Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
- Color vision and depth perception
Schedule
Wednesday- Sunday/2nd shift
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.