Microbiologist Technician

Job Description

The Microbiology Lab Technician is responsible for laboratory testing of raw materials, flavors, food products, beverages, water samples, and misc. environmental samples using various microbiological analyses and techniques. The Microbiology Lab Technician prepares samples for processing and testing and maintains associated documentation of such processes and testing analyses. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Properly prepares and analyzes samples for microbiological testing, as required.
• Performs traditional cultural, molecular, and rapid methodology testing to meet product specifications and client/customer expectations.
• Sets-up calibrates, maintains, and operates various laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
• Performs microbiological testing using industry-standard methods, along with methods developed in-house.
• Assists with preparation of all microbiological media, diluents, reagents, supplements, etc., as required for testing purposes.
• Maintains quality and confidentiality of client and company information and provides support in updating laboratory quality systems.
• Ensures safety compliance within a Biosafety Level 2 environment and in working with live cultures.
• Ensures equipment and laboratory areas are clean, organized, and maintained in a state of audit-readiness at all times.
• Actively participates in performing housekeeping duties and in keeping equipment clean, sanitized, and in good operational condition.
• Assists in other areas of the company, as needed.
• Promotes responsibility, good work habits, a positive work environment, and in continually improving customer service.
• Participates and promotes continuous improvement efforts within the laboratory functions and operations.
• Adheres to internal standards, policies, and procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum of an A.S., B.A., or B.S. degree in Microbiology, Food Science, Biology, or closely related field
• Minimum of 1 – 2 years of testing experience within a laboratory environment.
• The Microbiology Lab Technician must bring a high level of professionalism in performing a broad range of microbiological duties and assignments in a full-functioning capacity.
• Considerable judgment is used to make decisions in carrying out assignments that have a significant impact on food safety, food quality, and brand value for SGS and its clients.
• Assists with expanding laboratory method development, laboratory capabilities, and managing form control documentation.
• The position has the responsibility to support laboratory management in the implementation, maintenance, and improvement of the laboratory management systems.
• Direct food-related testing experience utilizing methodologies applicable to FDA-BAM, AOAC, USDA, and/or USP testing, a plus.
• Working knowledge of microbiological rapid methods testing; experience with real-time PCR, ELISA, API, Vidas, Vitek, BAX, and/or other closely related techniques and methodologies, preferred.
• Knowledge of ISO 17025 laboratory accreditation, a plus.
• Ability of communicate effectively in both oral and written forms.
• Must establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external clients.
• Ability to assess daily workload, prioritize activities, and handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
• Must possess excellent time management and organizational skills needed to balance multiple projects and changing priorities.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Possess and display a strong sense of urgency and good judgment.
• Must have work schedule flexibility as required, in efforts to effectively deliver timely testing and results generation to meet the demands of SGS business and client commit dates.

Additional Information

SGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.

This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts the company’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

If you are applying for a position within the United States and you have difficulty completing the on-line employment application because of a disability, please call 201-508-3149 for assistance and leave a message. You will receive a callback. Please note, this phone number is not for general employment information but is only for individuals who are experiencing difficulty applying for a position due to a disability.