FSQA Microbiology Technician

The Microbiology Technician (Micro Tech) will be responsible for conducting microbiological analyses to verify sanitary operating conditions and to assure the safety and quality of the manufacturing environment and finished products. Essential functions include providing technical assistance on all matters relating to the bacteriological analysis of products and materials, microbiological investigations and interpretation of analytical results, as well as the implementation of Ajinomoto Windsor microbiological procedures.

• Perform required microbiological tests and apply the related technological knowledge to the implementation and maintenance of bacteriological testing and quality assurance programs
• Orchestrate the collection of environmental, ingredient and finished product samples for bacteriological testing as needed
• Maintain a current and comprehensive knowledge of microbiological testing and analysis procedures
• Assist or independently conduct raw material/ingredient hazard analysis and risk assessments that may require microbial analysis, Certificates of Analysis, or export certification
• Inspect equipment and facilities for cleaning deficiencies and other food safety issues
• Participate on the positive swab investigative team as the leader, investigator or swab tech and maintain all records required for investigations
• Assist in the training or instruction of laboratory personnel, and monitor assigned bacteriological tests
• Ensure proper maintenance and operation of all bacteriological equipment, Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs) and maintain the cleanliness of the laboratory at all times
• Prepare and maintain necessary records and reports and keep leadership advised on all technical matters within the facility pertaining to microbiological procedures, bacteriological analyses reports, etc.
• Responsible for updating and maintaining the laboratory manual with all current policies and procedures, including the environmental site program and all related Corporate FSQA policies and procedures
• Communicate with outside analytical laboratories as needed
• Order and maintain laboratory supplies while adhering to the established department budget
• Work with Sanitation Leadership to ensure compliance and effectiveness of the Master Sanitation Schedule
• Follow all facility safety rules and regulations, FSQA programs, and regulatory requirements
• Performs all other work as assigned

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

1. A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Microbiology or Food Technology, Food Science or related field of study required
2. Broad experience in food manufacturing Food Safety and Quality Assurance and/or food plant production operations, processes, and policies strongly preferred
3. Certifications in HACCP, SQF, or through ASQ and other professional quality associations are preferred
4. Must be able to pass quarterly proficiency testing for microbial analysis
5. Understanding of a micro lab process is strongly preferred
6. Demonstrated laboratory technique to perform serial dilutions, maceration of sample matrices, and plating technique required
7. Must possess good analytical, investigative and problem solving skills as well as the ability to integrate activities in the processing environment to cause and effect for bacteriological risk assessments and root cause analysis
8. Good working knowledge of Root Cause Analysis (i.e. 5Y, Ishikawa). Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, PDCA, DMAIC and other quality tools strongly desired
9. Strong communication skills (reading, writing, verbal) are essential to interface with various levels of plant management, co-workers, and suppliers
10. A high level of organizational, mathematical, and recordkeeping skills required
11. Strong computer skills to include Microsoft Office and other data entry software required
12. Mental and physical ability to perform analytical tests through eye/hand coordination required
13. Must be willing to work together with co-workers as part of a team; also, must be self-motivated and able to work with little or no supervision
14. Must be willing to work variable hours as needed

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to taste or smell product, sit, walk, climb stairs, reach with hands and arms, turn/twist, and push/pull. The employee is required to stand; use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; stoop, kneel, or crouch; and talk or hear. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. The specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, extreme cold and extreme heat. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud in the production area.