QRC Scientist

Job Location: Tech Center

Summary:

This position is responsible for microbiological sampling, testing and evaluation.  Results interpretation.  Successful candidate will work under general supervision to perform microbiological tests which require standard procedures and moderately complex instrumentation and execute projects of moderate complexity. Responsibilities include receiving routine food microbiology samples; preparation and analyses; preparation & maintenance of the media inventory and quality control.

Weekend work is required 1x per month

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Scope of Responsibility:

• Under general supervision and support of professional staff member partner with plant and co-manufacturing QA staff to provide recommendations to prevent, troubleshoot, and resolve microbiological incidents in the manufacturing environment.
• Under general supervision and support of professional staff member Conduct microbiological assessments of manufacturing lines. Develop and assist the plant with an microbiological monitoring program
• Receive customer samples using Lab Information Management systems (LIMS) for microbiological analyses of ingredients, finished product, and environmental swabs
• Process and communicate accurate microbiological analyses and data
• Prepare the microbiological media & reagents for in-house testing purposes
• Maintain an inventory and well stocked supply of prepared and commercially available microbiological media formats to support testing.
• Maintain necessary controls & documentation related to the preparation of microbiological media
• Coordinate the destruction of samples after results entry

Project Leadership, Troubleshooting and Manufacturing Microbiological Support  

• Based on role, experience and project need project support may be carried out in microbiological laboratory, manufacturing facility or both.
• Under general supervision, assume responsibility for laboratory / benchtop projects or projects supporting recommendation and implementation of microbiological control programs at manufacturing facilities.  Projects are of significant importance, scope and complexity involving ingredients, in process materials, finished goods and defining product attributes.  Serve as a resource for testing, method calibration, method validation.  Ensure methods are fit for purpose and accuracy of resulting data. May assist senior scientist on more complex projects

Training & knowledge development

• Under general supervision and support of professional staff member partner with R &D/tech colleagues to ensure food safety requirements are incorporated into new product processes. Provide Technical support, consultation, and data interpretation to R&D personnel/projects throughout the year
• Attend assigned training & learning projects involving collaboration

Skills and Experience:

• Working knowledge and comfort in aseptic technique, microbiological test methods, microbiological media, and autoclave usage
• Ability to follow standard procedures and methods
• Apply working technical knowledge of food microbiology and related sciences, processes and/or instrumentation to identify and recommend control and/or monitoring techniques for food safety and quality
• Ability to work independently
• Proficiency in computer programs / software such as Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, Power Point, LIMS system,
• Knowledge of regulatory and quality system requirements - HACCP, Good Manufacturing Process (GMP), Good laboratory practices (GLP), etc.
• Ability to lift 15-25 pounds.

Minimum Requirements and Education:

• B.S. in Food Science, Microbiology or related field required
• 2– 5  years laboratory experience