Senior Food Microbiology Lab Technologist

Great Plains Analytical Laboratory; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Great Plains Analytical Laboratory in Missouri is seeking a senior Food Microbiology Laboratory Technologist III to perform advanced qualitative and molecular testing for food and environmental samples. You will interpret results, validate PCR-based assays, and support method readiness and training of junior staff.

Reporting to the Microbiology Laboratory Supervisor, you will ensure compliance with ISO, SOPs, and quality systems, mentor Level I/II staff, and contribute to continuous improvement

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a lab environment (industry or academia).
• BS in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or related field.
• Experience with qualitative microbiology, PCR, and data interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Perform, interpret, and validate qualitative microbiological testing for pathogens including PCR.
• Evaluate PCR data and identify inhibition or irregularities; recommend confirmatory tests.
• Report and validate results in LIMS and communicate presumptive positives to leadership.
• Prepare media, reagents, and supplies for molecular and qualitative testing.
• Troubleshoot PCR assays/instrumentation with the Microbiology Lead to minimize downtime.
• Assist with client onboarding, testing support, and training of Level I/II staff.
• Maintain a clean, safe lab environment and monitor Kanban stock levels.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives for workflow and data quality.

Skills

Qualitative microbiology

PCR analysis

LIMS documentation

Mentor junior staff

SOP compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology

Tools

PCR instruments

Laboratory software/LIMS

Job description

Great Plains Analytical Laboratory in Missouri is seeking a senior Food Microbiology Laboratory Technologist III to perform advanced qualitative and molecular testing for food and environmental samples. You will interpret results, validate PCR-based assays, and support method readiness and training of junior staff.

Reporting to the Microbiology Laboratory Supervisor, you will ensure compliance with ISO, SOPs, and quality systems, mentor Level I/II staff, and contribute to continuous improvement