What are the responsibilities and job description for the Microbiology Lab Supervisor position at McKenna Labs?
McKenna Labs, a manufacturer of personal care products, is currently seeking a Microbiology Lab Supervisor responsible for the testing processes in the microbiology laboratory and ensure that all raw material, bulk and finished good testing in in compliance with all company/customer SOPs as well as regulatory requirements defined to maintain product quality and safety. This can also include support of investigations, as needed, and by monitoring, controlling, and preventing microbial contamination throughout the manufacturing process to meet stringent requirements.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Supervise and train staff for microbial related analysis of raw materials, bulk, and finished goods as outlined in SOPs or Test Methods.
Perform routine testing of finished goods, in-process bulk, raw materials, and other processes requiring microbiological content as outlined in applicable SOPs.
Coordinate the training programs and SOPs to meet companywide training matrix for team as well as provide guidance on microbiology operations.
Oversee the handling of samples coming into the microbiology lab all the way to the final disposition issued micro testing, including media prep as directed or outlined in the protocol.
Execution of the company’s Environmental Monitoring Program including the interpretation of results and escalation as needed.
Support the Microbiology Team as needed with tasks such as but not limited to media preparation, plating, or resulting.
Prepare comprehensive written report for microbiology investigation report for OOS and assist with customer complaint investigations.
Assist in maintaining thorough, complete, and timely documentation and recordkeeping as outlined in established SOP.
Adhere to and model good manufacturing practices (GMP) and good laboratory practices (GLP) at all times.
Strong analytical skills and be able to complete data analysis as well as interpret results during investigations or validations.
Maintain and manage the microbiology lab’s materials and supplies including the generation of purchase requisitions and purchase orders.
Identify areas for improvement and improve laboratory efficiency.
Provide clear and concise communication to direct and cross-functional teams.
Lead and support staff activities and provide technical direction as needed.
Requirements
To fulfill the requirements of this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Bachelor's of Science (BS) in microbiology or related field from a four-year college or university.
Preference of 5 or more years of experience in a formal laboratory setting with 2 years as a supervisor.
Familiarity with US Pharmacopia (USP) and Personal Care Product Council (PCPC) Microbial Methods.
Comprehensive knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) as they relate to personal care and OTC drug products.
Excellent English written and verbal communication skills.
Superior problem solving, decision making, and organizational skills.
Advanced statistical and mathematical skills.
Knowledge of computer applications and systems (i.e. Microsoft Office, Minitab, RedZone)
Excellent cross-functional team skills to accomplish various initiatives and goals with different leaders.
The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, crouch, or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
Attributes
Flexible and adaptable mindset that will thrive in an ever-changing and growing organization.
Self-awareness – individual knows their strengths and opportunities for continued growth and development and does not shy away from learning opportunities.
Creative thinker – individual sees challenges or problems as puzzles or opportunities to solve.
Eager collaborator – focus on collective goals and not individual achievements.
Grit – individual sees problems as “opportunities to solve” and does not get discouraged with setbacks.
Humility and Humor – Individual prioritizes listening and understanding. Takes work challenges seriously, but not themselves—uses humor and levity to help bridge gaps and break down barriers.
Empathy – recognizes the innate value in all team members and helps to foster a supportive and positive culture.
The pay range for this role is $68,000 – $85,000 annually. Compensation is commensurate with level of knowledge, education, skills, and experience applicable to the position.
We understand that each team member’s situation is unique, and so it is our intent to offer an overall benefits package that can be shaped and molded by each individual to fit their family’s needs. Our current benefits package, which is available to all full-time team members, includes medical, dental, vision insurance, 401k retirement plan, flexible spending accounts, life and disability coverage, and other voluntary benefits.
We want everyone to feel welcome, respected and we are committed to providing the best space, experience and workplace for our teams – no matter what race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, veteran or disability status and all the other fascinating characteristics that make us different
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $68,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
Ability to Relocate:
- Fullerton, CA 92831: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $68,000 - $85,000