POSITION SUMMARY

The Microbiologist performs microbiological analysis of raw materials, packaging, and finished products according to requirements. This position also conducts microbiological monitoring to validate the effectiveness of cleaning and sanitation.

REPORTING STRUCTURE

Reports To :

Quality Assurance Manager

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Follow all safety procedures and work as safe as possible at all times. Independently perform total count, yeast and mold, Pseudomonas aeruginosa , and enterococci testing on water and other applicable samples using approved laboratory methods. Perform aseptic sample handling, membrane filtration, plating, incubation, colony counting, result calculations, quality control checks, and complete documentation. Recognize questionable or out-of-specification results and promptly notify QA management. Complete all microbiological testing per internal and customer requirements including microbiological plating and analytical microbiological testing. Notify management of trends or results that are out of specification. Assist as necessary during any microbiological qualification to determine RO contamination. Responsible for performing and maintaining product, ingredient, sanitation and environmental microbiology monitoring programs. Perform audits to ensure compliance to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and sanitation standards. Conduct audits, analyze & report out microbiological results per internal and customer requirements. Comply with and enforce proper safety, sanitation and standard operating procedures. Work with all departments to meet departmental goals and Company objectives. Follow and enforce GMP's, Food Safety and ISO certification guidelines throughout facility. Participate and contribute to The Quality Management System Programs including Food Safety. Calibrate analytical balances in the micro lab. Perform laboratory support activities such as ordering supplies, preparing and standardizing reagents. Provide methodology of sample collection training to employees who are responsible to collect micro samples. Provide training, as needed, to employees on micro plating, reading, documenting, filing & scanning microbiological sampling and results. Provide ideas and actively participate in initiatives for continuous improvement. Identifies problems and brings to the attention of plant management. Assist with State pH Control releases including sample preparation, documentation & working with the State pH Inspector for releases. Perform internal audits, as needed Assist with annual capability studies. General Maintain a positive work atmosphere and interaction with customers, co-workers, and management. All other duties as assigned. Work scheduled shift, weekends, and extended hours as required. Regular and punctual attendance. To perform this job successfully, must be able to perform each fundamental task listed above satisfactorily.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education BS in Microbiology or Biology required; 2-3 years of microbiology experience with food, beverage or microbiological laboratory required; Or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience 2-3 years of hands-on microbiology experience in a food, beverage, water, or similar testing laboratory. Hands-on experience with membrane filtration and culture-based microbiological testing of water. Experience performing total count, yeast and mold, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and enterococci testing is strongly preferred. Ability to independently prepare samples and media; perform filtration, plating, incubation, and colony counts; calculate results; and maintain complete, accurate records. Ability to follow approved test methods, recognize questionable or out-of-specification results, troubleshoot testing issues, and promptly notify QA management. Experience with aseptic technique, environmental monitoring, and laboratory contamination controls. Experience in a beverage manufacturing facility preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of aseptic technique, membrane filtration, microbiological plating, incubation, colony counting, and laboratory contamination controls. Ability to perform and interpret total count, yeast and mold, Pseudomonas aeruginosa , and enterococci testing according to approved methods. Ability to prepare media and reagents, perform required quality control checks, and maintain laboratory equipment and records. Ability to calculate and accurately document results, identify unusual or out-of-specification findings, and promptly communicate them to QA management. Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently while managing multiple testing schedules and deadlines. Clear written and verbal communication skills and proficiency with Excel and other basic computer programs.

Competencies:

Excellent planning, analytical, problem solving, and organizational skills. Proficient in Microsoft Office. Above average math skills with ability to calculate figures and amounts such as proportions, percentages, averages and ratios. Have a strong work ethic and be able to work independently as well as working in a team. Demonstrate attention to detail, a professional attitude, and produce accurate work product. Demonstrate a sense of urgency in delivering results to all customers. Must be proactive. Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to communicate professionally with customers, vendors and various internal departments. Accurately execute multiple tasks and adhere to deadlines. Must be a quick learner and self-starter, able to perform tasks with minimal supervision. Ability to constructively interact with others to resolve quality issues and improve operations. Knowledge of microbiological techniques, principles, applications and aseptic techniques. Knowledge of basic chemistry and lab safety principles. Ability to read, analyze and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's). Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions. Basic knowledge of office equipment such as fax machine, copier/scanner, telephones, and computer.