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JOB
SUMMARY
The function of this job
is to perform professional analytical and microbiological testing of food
products, ingredients, and environmentals. The
position entails responsibility for application and evaluation of approved
microbiological techniques and methodologies used in analytical testing of
food products/environmentals. The position works
closely with the Lab Supervisor in the daily functions associated with the
laboratory. The scope of laboratory tests performed will be directed by the
proficiency level the technician has successfully demonstrated and
authorized to perform. This position is commonly referred to as a special
projects microbiologist due to the more technical nature of the scope of
work and involvement in special projects.
ESSENTIAL
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Apply aseptic/microbiological
techniques in daily workload and prepare and analyze samples for
indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemistries according to
acceptable methods
- Independently pursue an
assigned series of processes, procedures, or techniques in accordance
with Food Safety Net Services Methods Manual, Quality Manual, Chemical
Hygiene Plan, Safety Manual, and approved laboratory procedures
- Accurately perform and read
test results and notify Laboratory Manager of deviations
- Prepare media and reagents as
needed for daily microbiological testing
- Maintain a high degree of
technical competence by reading scientific journals, attending
professional workshops, and being aware of food industry issues and
trends
- Report inventory and
expendable supplies/materials needed for testing requirements
- Provide routine preventive
maintenance by daily cleaning, sanitizing, trash disposal, and
equipment quality control
- Assist in quality control
duties to by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control
organisms, running media controls etc., and other laboratory quality
control procedures including quality control documentation
- Assist with training and
research assignments
- Maintain safe, efficient, and
compliant lab operations, to include equipment maintenance and
purchasing supplies
- Assist with the coordination
of sample collection, transport, and receiving maintaining customer
satisfaction while achieving desired business results
- Assist with managing
priorities and schedule such that individual goals as well as team
goals are achieved with encouraged participation in the Food Safety
Net Services team
- Responsible for the safety of
oneself and others working within their area
- Responsible for the
completion of required training
- Travel is required and at the
discretion of management
PROFICIENCY
REQUIREMENTS
All employees hired
directly into a technologist level will have 90 calendar days from date of
hire to be proficient in the noted areas.
- Need to have competency in
all duties listed in previous tech levels
General:
- Can conduct training as
required for Tech I and II’s
- Frequent successful client
contact
- Demonstrates a functional
working knowledge of the ISO 17025 Quality System and assist in the
administration of the system within the lab
- Proficient in all other
duties (Safety, Quality/Equipment, Bio safety)
- Minimum of 2 years customer
service experience
- Ability to travel when
necessary
- Ability to problem-solve and
interpret written methods
- Ability to make informed
decisions on sample disposition and reporting
- Working closely with lead or
supervisor in decision making
- Flexibility in scheduling and
covering shifts
- Proficient in the opening and
closing duties of Path Lab
- Engaging leads, supervisors,
and managers in decision making
- Proficient in all areas of
the lab (Log-In, Main, Media, Path)
Pathogen Lab:
- Maintain Stock cultures
- Knowledge of all qualitative,
quantitative testing, and confirmations performed
- Resource for all technicians
in Path and Main Lab
- Proficient in the approval
process including second approval
- Excellent aseptic technique
and use of the biological hood
- Understanding of client specs
- Ability to make decisions
when the Tech IV, Lead, or Supervisor is not available
- Proficient in prioritizing
reports and meeting TAT
- Managing client expectations
- Ensuring all Path Lab duties
are complete and the end of the shift
- Ensuring daily, weekly, and monthly
sanitation and QC are complete
- Help resolve technical issues
with machines, calling a representative to troubleshoot
- Successful performance in
proficiency testing for all path lab analyses on A2LA Scope (<2
Z-Score)
- Training of new employees
- Versed in GMP/GLP, FDA, USDA,
AOAC, and other method reference sources
- Manage workload and ensure
TAT is met by delegation of work to self and others
OTHER DUTIES
- Perform other duties as
assigned
SUPERVISORY
RESPONSIBILITIES
- This
job may have supervisory responsibilities
- Carries
out responsibilities in accordance with organization's policies and
applicable laws
- Responsibilities
may include interviewing, training, directing work, and appraising
performance
MINIMUM
QUALIFICATIONS
- BS degree in Life Science or
related field
- Masters degree in Life Science or
related field preferred
- Two years of analytical
laboratory experience
- Three or more years experience in a commercial food-testing
laboratory preferred
- Working knowledge of aseptic
sampling technique, automated lab equipment, and acceptable methods
and procedures
- Familiarity with GMP , OSHA
guidelines, FDA, BAM, APHA, and Compendium methods and procedure
- Broad knowledge of concepts,
practices, and procedures of a food testing laboratory
- Or equivalent combination of
education and experience
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