Applications Scientist I

Hygiena provides rapid microbiology diagnostic tests and solutions for mission-critical, time-sensitive processes around the world. Hygiena’s proprietary diagnostic technologies enable customers to; prevent illness and save lives, comply with regulations, protect products and brands, run businesses more effectively. Solutions are sold in a wide range of industries globally, but the core focus is food safety. Headquartered in Camarillo, California and with offices around the world, we are actively looking for talented individuals to help grow the business!

At Hygiena we believe:

• In providing the highest quality products & service
• Being a leader in innovation
• Having a compelling desire to improve and win in the marketplace
• In contributing positively not only in the workplace, but in our community and environment!

With rapid growth comes opportunity. We are looking for an Applications Scientist I to join our team in Delaware! The Applications Scientist I is responsible for performing pathogen focused research projects in a BSL 2 food microbiology laboratory. The purpose of these projects is to provide customers with a food safety solution to accurately assess the contamination status of food so that it is safe for human consumption. Under supervision, this individual will use a wide range of scientific and analytical techniques to prepare experiments, execute procedures, interpret, and analyze data and report final results. In addition, this individual will assist in general laboratory operations and maintaining equipment for the applications group. This is a full-time, exempt position.

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Responsibilities: *

• Performs experiments under supervision using microbiological and molecular based techniques to detect and identify microorganisms from food or other sample types. Studies will involve experimental set up, labelling, starting bacterial cultures, enumeration methods, inoculating samples, starting enrichments, sampling, sample preparation of target DNA, use of molecular (PCR-based) assays, isolation using microbiological standards and identification of microorganisms using molecular and biochemical procedures or serotyping.
• Assists with daily laboratory needs such as media preparation, cleaning glassware and plastics used in microbial testing, and autoclaving and disposing of biohazardous waste. Will also be responsible for general laboratory maintenance such as calibration and inspection of laboratory equipment (incubators, refrigerators, freezers, water baths, pipettes) to ensure all equipment is operating within the acceptable specifications.
• Analyze, interpret and document results from experiments. Be able to recognize erroneous results, determine additional testing needed for data resolution, conduct follow-up investigations and make conclusions based on final results.
• Assist in preparing internal and customer facing study reports, technical bulletins, abstracts and posters to communicate final data.

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Qualifications: *

• Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology or a related field required.
• Minimum of two (2) years of scientific research experience.
• Knowledge of techniques, methods and procedures used in food microbiology and molecular biology preferred.
• Knowledge or experience working with Qualicon Diagnostics LLC products are desired: The BAX® System and RiboPrinter™.

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Skills/Abilities: *

• Basic microbiology laboratory skills in culturing bacteria, using aseptic techniques and other relevant skills.
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft office applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage day-to-day laboratory activities.
• Demonstrated critical thinking and troubleshooting ability.
• Must be able to adapt and flex to a changing environment.
• Must be able to use discretion and independent judgement.
• Must be able to work in a team environment.
• Make customers and their needs a primary focus of one’s action.

Why you’ll want to join our team:
Teamwork as a core value.
At Hygiena, our emphasis on teamwork and cross-functional communication enables us to build stronger bonds within our business.

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Be a part of something big_.
Hygiena plays a critical role in helping to prevent global health crisis such as foodborne illness, healthcare-associated infections, and other outbreaks.

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Giving back to our communities_.
Hygiena believes in giving back by supporting local organizations committed to improving the lives of children and youth in our communities.

Benefits and Perks:

• 15 days of PTO & 9 paid company holidays
• Medical with HSA employer contribution, Dental, Vision available 1st of the month after start date
• Company paid Life Insurance, Short* and Long-Term Disability and an Employee Assistance Program
• 401(k) with Safe Harbor and Profit-Sharing employer contributions
• Tuition Reimbursement program
• Charitable Contribution matching
• Employee Referral bonus opportunities

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State paid short-term disability for California based employees

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran

Job Type: Full-time