Microbiological Lab Technician

Purpose of the Position

Responsible for accurate and timely processing of microbiology and chemistry testing for all 3 divisions within Simmons Foods, INC.

Essential Position Responsibilities - This is a Salary Non-Exempt position. 

Test raw and finished products and environmental samples for microbiology and chemistry testing.  Some products require pathogen testing.  Food microbiologists will receive and prepare samples for testing and ensure all steps in the testing process are strictly followed utilizing aseptic technique.  Must be able to plan and prioritize all daily tasks. 

Communicate results to our customers by ensuring accurate and timely result entry.  Results can be reported electronically or by hard copy.  Food microbiologists must accurately verify these results before they are released to the customer.  Must be able to correctly interpret bacterial growth to provide accurate results for some tests.   

Actively participate in improving the quality management system to maintain lab accreditation by eliminating errors from the lab processes.  Ensure quality control procedures are followed for all processes, equipment and inventory management systems including bacterial cultures that are utilized in the laboratories.  All tasks must be completed with safety as the top priority and the Food Microbiologist must complete the required monthly safety training at their own pace.  Must be able to assist with daily laboratory housekeeping duties such as washing dishes, dusting and mopping. 

Assist in training new team members.  All team members are trained for every aspect of testing and work on a weekly rotating schedule within the lab.  The Food Microbiologist will work on an individual task rotation as well as be part of the larger team on a daily basis.  This includes training and assisting new team members as they learn the quality management system. 

Complete annual goals which consist of individual and team goals as directed by senior leadership.  The Food microbiologist must be able to complete normal job responsibilities as well as work towards the identified project objectives and goals each year.   

Participates as a member of the Team. Participates in the ongoing development, communication and implementation of  team concepts, programs and policies; coordinates work to ensure best practices with all team members. Attends  appropriate team meetings. As a member of the Team, fosters strong cohesiveness regarding all major issues; e.g.,  direction, annual plan, budget, policy changes, etc. Accepts responsibility to quickly identify any areas that lack  cohesiveness, bringing them to the attention of the team leader and working with the team in a supportive manner to  resolve issues and actively look for ways, and reinforce actions needed, to achieve synergy possible within the larger  organization. 

Simmons Operating systems principles and objectives: Is familiar with Simmons’ established operating systems (e.g.  quality, security, office environment, company policies, LEAN); understands the responsibility to maintain familiarity with the systems and this position’s role in support of these systems - including a consideration of the impact of individual  actions on the systems and the responsibility to communicate concerns and improvement ideas. 

Performs other duties as necessary in support of business objectives: This position description is intended to guide  the activities of the person in this position and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person as to the  work of this function nor is it intended that this describe all the work that may be required of the person in this position. 

Physical Activities: Enters and locates information on a computer. Visually verifies information, often in small print.  Communicates with Customers, Vendors, or Employees via telephone, in person, and/or electronic mail. May present  information to small or large groups. Must be able to work in various temperatures. Move about in a manufacturing  environment and surrounding property. May travel via car or plane to various work locations. Must be able to perform  repetitive motions for extended periods of time (pipetting, pouring media, etc.). Must be able to lift and carry 40lb  packages or trash bags over short distances and up/down stairs. 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Lab coat must be worn at all times while in the laboratory. Safety glasses and  gloves and any other protective equipment as needed.  

Travel: None

Technical Experience: Working knowledge of current laboratory procedures involving Pathogens and Quality Indicator  bacteria. Computer skills including functional knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and Gmail with an emphasis on Excel.  Must be able to pass a company issued laboratory test and color-blind test.  

Industry Experience: Microbiology food laboratory experience preferred.  

Minimum Education: High School Diploma or equivalent. Must be able to effectively communicate in English (both  written and verbal).  

Preferred Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, Chemistry or any science related field.

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