Job Posting – QA Microbiologist, West Coast

Our client is one of the largest diversified suppliers to the foodservice industry, with proven performance in superior quality and customer service in both manufacturing and distribution.  Their core businesses include: processing and distribution of liquid products, meat products, produce, bakery and other services, providing a variety of networked solutions for the total supply chain spectrum.  They currently have a new opportunity for a QA Microbiologist at their facility located on the West Coast.

JOB SUMMARY: Performs a variety of general microbiological needs as required to ensure compliance with Company, customer, and product specifications, safety, and sanitation standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Ensure all finished products are microbiologically tested in a timely manner, using aseptic technique to minimize potential contamination.
2. Analyze finished microbiological testing to ensure all results are within specification compliance; notifies QA management when not in compliance; and leads investigation and resolution of issues.
3. Trend microbiological data and institute improvements where necessary.
4. Alert management of any abnormal data trends or unfavorable results.
5. Generate microbiological media, as needed.
6. Routinely interact with QA technicians and supervisors to ensure finished products are collected routinely and accurately.
7. Maintain records, logs of tests, and other quality procedures to ensure availability of accurate and thorough information.
8. Assist in any microbiological sanitation or unforeseen incident trouble shooting/investigating, as necessary.
9. Calibrate and maintain testing equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability of QA procedures.
10. Perform environmental swabs as necessary.
11. Ensure that micro lab and testing comply with applicable Company, customer, and governmental requirements.
12. Collaborate with other Company plants on micro-related issues.
13. Perform other related and assigned duties as necessary.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Education and experience equivalent to:

Education/Certification:

BS or MS in Microbiology from an accredited college or university.

Experience:

A minimum of 3 to 5 years of relevant work experience and a BS degree, with an understanding of food safety and regulations or
A minimum of 1 to 3 years of relevant work experience and an MS degree, with an understanding of food safety and regulations.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of (B/basic; J/journey; E/expert):
• Food safety concepts and techniques (E)
• Food chemistry (B)
• Food microbiology (E)
• Quality assurance concepts and techniques (B)
• HACCP programs and related food safety regulations and processes (B)
• Customer specification requirements (B)
• Customer and 3rd party audit requirements as related to Microbiology Department (B)
• Food processing equipment (B)
• Food testing concepts, techniques , GLP (B)
• PC word processing/spreadsheet software (B)

Skill and ability to:
• Work independently.
• Identify and investigate problems or irregularities for early resolution.
• Communicate and coordinate effectively with QA management, lead personnel and plant management.
• Work effectively in a general business environment, with a focus on high levels of quality and customer service.
• Work outside of normal business hours, when needed.
• Act in accordance with Company’s Values and Creed.

PERFORMANCE CATEGORIES

• Productivity/quality standards: accuracy, timeliness, thoroughness
• Teamwork within the department and across departments
• Project/assignment standards
• Customer satisfaction
• Safety standards and procedures: food