Senior Food Microbiology Technologist PCR Testing

Great-Plains-Analytical-Laboratory; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Great Plains Analytical Laboratory is seeking a senior Food Microbiology Laboratory Technologist III to perform advanced qualitative and molecular testing for food and environmental samples, including pathogen detection, PCR analysis, confirmation testing, and result validation.

The role also mentors junior staff, supports troubleshooting, ensures ISO compliance, and maintains data integrity in the LIMS while ensuring a safe, organized laboratory environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of lab experience in industry or academia, food environment.
• Foundational and intermediate microbiology lab skills including aseptic technique.
• Experience with data management and quality practices in a lab setting.

Responsibilities

• Perform qualitative microbiology testing for pathogenic organisms and PCR-based assays.
• Evaluate PCR data and confirm results; report in LIMS.
• Mentor Level I & II staff and support training.
• Maintain ISO-compliant laboratory practices and safety procedures.
• Troubleshoot assays and instrumentation; support implementation of continuous improvement.

Skills

Qualitative microbiology

LIMS documentation

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology/Biology/ Food Science

Tools

LIMS

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

Great Plains Analytical Laboratory is seeking a senior Food Microbiology Laboratory Technologist III to perform advanced qualitative and molecular testing for food and environmental samples, including pathogen detection, PCR analysis, confirmation testing, and result validation.

The role also mentors junior staff, supports troubleshooting, ensures ISO compliance, and maintains data integrity in the LIMS while ensuring a safe, organized laboratory environment.