Senior Food Microbiology Lab Technologist – PCR & QA

Great Plains Analytical Laboratory - GPAL; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Great Plains Analytical Laboratory - GPAL is seeking a senior Food Microbiology Laboratory Technologist III to lead advanced qualitative and molecular testing for food and environmental samples. You will detect pathogens, analyze PCR data, confirm results, and ensure compliance with ISO standards.

You will mentor Level I–II staff, support method readiness, and collaborate on improvement projects to enhance workflow efficiency and data quality.

Qualifications

• Senior-level microbiologist responsible for advanced qualitative and molecular testing.
• Mentor junior staff and ensure compliance with ISO requirements.
• Perform PCR-based assays, confirmation testing, and data validation in LIMS.

Responsibilities

• Perform, interpret, and validate qualitative microbiological testing for pathogens including PCR-based assays.
• Evaluate PCR curves and identify inhibition or assay irregularities.
• Report and validate qualitative results in LIMS and communicate findings to leadership.
• Prepare media, reagents, and supplies for molecular and qualitative testing.
• Troubleshoot PCR assays and instrumentation with the Microbiology Lead to ensure testing continuity.
• Assist with client onboarding, method readiness, and testing support.
• Participate in continuous improvement to enhance workflow and data quality.

Skills

Qualitative microbiology

PCR analysis

Mentoring

Data management

Communication

Education

Bachelor of Science in Microbiology/Biology/Food Science

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Outlook

LIMS

Job description

Great Plains Analytical Laboratory - GPAL is seeking a senior Food Microbiology Laboratory Technologist III to lead advanced qualitative and molecular testing for food and environmental samples. You will detect pathogens, analyze PCR data, confirm results, and ensure compliance with ISO standards.

You will mentor Level I–II staff, support method readiness, and collaborate on improvement projects to enhance workflow efficiency and data quality.