Microbiology Technician - Haliburton International Foods : Job Details

JOB DESCRIPTION: Microbiology Technician

DEPARTMENT: Quality

REPORTS TO: Director of Laboratory Services

SUMMARY

The Microbiologist position ensures food safety by establishing and maintaining procedures and programs within the food processing facility. This includes analysis of raw materials, finished product and environmental monitoring samples. Assists in audits by ensuring that all food safety system documents are current and accurate, ensuring compliance with regulations and standards. Reports to Director of Laboratory Services

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Analysis:

• Conducts routine and complex analysis of food and environmental samples to detect pathogens and food quality or sanitation microbial indicator organisms.
• Conducts investigation and provides corrective actions for food safety failures in both finished goods and environment.
• Conducts in-process chemistry testing for products as well as shelf-life development studies.
• Participates in laboratory proficiency testing

Food Safety Program Implementation

• Assists in developing and implementing food safety programs, ensuring compliance with regulations and standards and good manufacturing practices.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Collects, accurately analyzes and interprets microbiological data, and prepares Certificates of Analysis and reports for internal and external parties.
• Responsible for release of production for shipping through positive-release program.

Laboratory Maintenance and Calibration

• Maintains and calibrates laboratory equipment, ensuring accuracy and reliability of testing procedures and results.
• Assists with media preparation, and test sample disposal.

Training and Support:

• May train junior microbiologists, provide technical support to production teams and participate in both internal and external audits.

REQUIERED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Minimum Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related field and experience in food manufacturing plant performing quality or analytical procedures related to production
• Familiarity with relevant food safety regulations and standards
• Knowledgeable in Good Manufacturing Practices and Good Laboratory Practices policies and procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for reporting findings and collaborating with others.
• Attention to detail is crucial for accurate testing and record-keeping
• Able to demonstrate understanding and knowledge of aseptic techniques
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, E-mail, internet etc.) computer-based programs.
• Must utilize time in an efficient manner and be able to work with minimal supervision.
• Must have the ability to read, write and communicate effectively in English. Bilingual in Spanish a plus.
• Detail oriented.
• Strong organizing skills and able to meet deadlines.
• Must be able to prioritize and handle multiple projects at the same time.
• Be able to work independently or in a team environment.
• Able to work flexible hours and weekends.

OTHER INFORMATION AND REQUIREMENTS

FLSA Status: Non- Exempt

Travel Requirements: No travel.

Driving Requirements: Valid driver's license and clean driving record as needed for occasional business travel.

Physical Demands/work environment

Ability to sit for extended periods of time at a computer workstation; use hands and motor skills on a frequent basis for functions such as keyboard data entry input; clear vision to read and interpret documents, reports, and information on a computer screen, etc. Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time and occasionally required to climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and withstand strong odors from the foods being processed. Ability to lift 50 lbs.

Pre-Employment

Applicants must successfully pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen as a condition of any offer of employment to ensure compliance with Drug Free Workplace policies

Haliburton proudly supports diversity in the workplace and is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law.