Microbiology Lab Technician

Iowa Ag; Mason City (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Cargill in Mason City, Iowa is seeking a Microbiology Laboratory Technician to assist with testing conducted in the laboratory. You will ensure all testing aligns with standards, lab procedures, and company guidelines.

The role supports testing for the food enterprise, with responsibilities spanning sample prep, microbiological analyses, and continuous process improvements. Weekend work and compliance with ISO/QA expectations are expected.

Qualifications

• High school diploma, secondary education level or equivalent.
• Knowledge of lab procedures and techniques.
• Knowledge of microbiology, preparation of culture media, laboratory equipment and basic laboratory techniques.
• Availability to work weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Sample set up including preparation of culture media, decontamination of wastes and performing monthly environmental tests in the laboratory.
• Performs microbiological testing as per scope and miscellaneous tests as assigned by Laboratory Supervisor.
• Identify nonconformities, potential nonconformities and laboratory process improvements on a continuous basis and report results to customers.
• Maintain the laboratory environment and supplies including inventory of reagents, monitoring and maintenance of equipment, rotation of media stocks and disposal of retain samples.
• Handle complex clerical, administrative, technical or customer support issues under minimal supervision, while escalating only the most complex issues to appropriate staff.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Lab procedures

Microbiology

Culture media

Equipment operation

Weekend/holiday availability

Education

Bachelor's degree in microbiology

ISO 17025 knowledge

Tools

Microsoft Word

Excel

Job description

Cargill is a family company committed to providing food and agricultural solutions to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. We sit at the heart of the supply chain, partnering with producers and customers to source, make and deliver products that are vital for living. By providing customers with life's essentials, we enable businesses to grow, communities to prosper, and consumers to live well.

This position is in our Food Enterprise where we are committed to serving food manufacturers, food service customers, and retailers with a complete range of innovative ingredients and branded products. Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners, cocoa and chocolate.

The Microbiology Laboratory Technician will assist with tests performed in the laboratory. In this role, you will ensure all testing is performed in accordance with standards, laboratory procedures and established company guidelines.

#LI-AM11 #LI-Onsite

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Sample set up including preparation of culture media, decontamination of wastes and performing monthly environmental tests in the laboratory.
• Performs microbiological testing as per scope and miscellaneous tests as assigned by Laboratory Supervisor.
• Identify nonconformities, potential nonconformities and laboratory process improvements on a continuous basis and report results to customers.
• Maintain the laboratory environment and supplies including inventory of reagents, monitoring and maintenance of equipment, rotation of media stocks and disposal of retain samples.
• Handle complex clerical, administrative, technical or customer support issues under minimal supervision, while escalating only the most complex issues to appropriate staff.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

MINIMUM

• High school diploma, secondary education level or equivalent.
• Knowledge of lab procedures and techniques.
• Knowledge of microbiology, preparation of culture media, laboratory equipment and basic laboratory techniques.
• Availability to work weekends and holidays.

PREFERRED

• Bachelor's degree in microbiology, lab or food science.
• Knowledge of ISO 17025 or Quality Management Systems.
• Ability to follow directions and work with minimal supervision.
• Analytical, well organized and detail oriented.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Strong level of competence with Microsoft Word, Excel and additional types of software.
• Related work experience working in a microbiology laboratory within the food industry.

APPLICANT INFORMATION

• This position is posted both internally and externally
• Position is based in Mason City, Iowa
• Relocation assistance is NOT provided for this role
• The business will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet