FSQ Microbiology Specialist

About the role

The FSQ Microbiology Specialist provides process and/or technical leadership for laboratory operations, including routine, non-routine, project-based, and quality assurance activities, in alignment with Group, regulatory, and industry food safety and quality requirements.

Responsibilities

• Create schedule and assign daily duties for Micro Lab Analysts
• Lead training, onboarding, qualification, and authorization of laboratory personnel. Support performance feedback and professional development through coaching, knowledge transfer, and technical guidance.
• Manage consumable inventory system
• Manage and facilitate Preventative Maintenance and Calibration Programs
• Implement new processes, verifications, and validation of effectiveness
• Manage daily compliance of ISO 17025 standards
• Method development and implementation – conduct studies, work with third party vendors
• Career with caring built in - discover our benefits here
• Perform microbiological testing in the laboratory and work to develop new microbiological assays for in-house testing
• Interpret microbiological data generated both internally and by third party testing facilities; report data and trends and initiate appropriate follow-up actions
• Troubleshoot all testing/sampling abnormalities to ensure proper results are reported; initiate proper guidelines for corrective/preventative action immediately
• Investigate product holds for microbiological reasons and make recommendations for appropriate actions based on scientific findings and/or company
• Perform daily plant/lab inspections and manage the facilities environmental testing program; analyze results to ensure a microbiologically sound environment for production
• Lead or support root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective and preventive action (CAPA) activities related to laboratory deviations, non-conformances, proficiency testing outcomes, or external laboratory performance.

Requirements

• BS/BA in Microbiology or equivalent area of study, with 3-5 years of experience in a food laboratory environment or equivalent of 5+ years’ experience in a laboratory environment within food manufacturing
• Advanced knowledge of microbiological lab procedures
• Advanced knowledge and experience in PCR technique and PCR Interpretation required
• Strong technical skills in interpretation of analytical results, equipment, and troubleshooting
• Knowledgeable in Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
• Experience with managing compliance with ISO 17025 Laboratory Standard
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and HAACP

Qualifications

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure: As part of our recruitment process, Ferrero may use artificial intelligence (AI) enabled tools to assist with reviewing candidate applications. These tools are used solely to support recruiters by summarizing application information and identifying potential alignment with job requirements. AI does not independently screen out or select candidates, and it does not replace human judgment. Final decisions regarding candidate progression are always made by Ferrero recruiters and hiring managers.

Skills

• Strong technical skills in interpretation of analytical results, equipment, and troubleshooting
• Knowledgeable in Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
• Experience with managing compliance with ISO 17025 Laboratory Standard
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and HAACP

Benefits

Careers with caring built in - discover our benefits here.

Pay

The base salary range for this position is $70,000- $80,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

Schedule

Monday-Friday 7:00a- 5:30p
Weekend Rotation and Holiday Coverage as needed