Microbiology Lab Manager
Job Description
The Microbiology Lab Manager is responsible for leading the facility's microbiological testing, environmental monitoring, and pathogen control programs to ensure product safety and regulatory compliance.
Key Responsibilities
Design and manage EMP across: Zones 1–4
Determine: Sampling locations, Frequency, Expansion strategies after positives
Focus on: Listeria spp., Indicator organisms
Oversee: Product testing, Environmental swabbing, Water testing
Ensure: Lab accuracy and reliability, Equipment calibration and validation
Maintain proper documentation and compliance
Pathogen Detection & Control Strategy
Identify: Harborage points, Recurring contamination areas
Provide recommendations to: Sanitation, FSQ, Operations
Data Analysis & Risk Identification
Analyze micro data trends
Identify: Hotspots, Recurring risks
Provide actionable insights—not just reports
Lead structured response to: Listeria positives
Ensure: Root cause analysis, Deep cleaning and validation, Expanded sampling, Sanitation Validation
Support validate effectiveness through: Swab data, ATP trends, Identify weaknesses in sanitation execution
Partner with: FSQ RTE Manager → contamination control, FSQ Raw Manager → upstream risk, Operations → implementation of fixes
Experience
5–10+ years in: Food manufacturing microbiology or QA
Strong experience with: RTE food environments (highly preferred)
USDA-regulated facilities
Environmental monitoring programs
Technical Skills
Expertise in: Listeria control strategies, Environmental sampling methods, Pathogen testing protocols
Familiarity with: ATP systems, Rapid micro testing technologies
Understanding of: Hygienic design principles, Sanitation chemistry
Leadership Competencies
Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
Ability to influence across functions (Ops, Sanitation, QA)
Detail-oriented with strong data discipline
High accountability and urgency in risk management
Physical Demands
Sit, use hands to finger, handle or feel and talk or hear
Occasionally stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms
Close vision
Work Environment
Plant setting with varying degrees of temperatures and noise levels
Exposure to manufacturing equipment movement and wet/slippery floors
Climate-controlled building
May require limited travel
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in: Microbiology, Food Science, Biology, or related field
Advanced degree (preferred)
Additional Information
The salary range for this role is $90,000- $110,000 (Annually).
Actual salaries will vary based on several factors, including but not limited to external market data, internal equity, location, and candidate skill set and experience.
Base pay is just one component of Jack Link’s Total Rewards package for Team Members. Other rewards may include annual incentive and program-specific awards.
Jack Link’s provides a variety of benefits to eligible Team Members, including medical, dental and vision benefits, life and disability insurance, 401k participation, paid holidays, and paid time off.
Disclaimer
This job description is intended to generally describe the nature and level of work to be performed by employees in this position. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and skills required of employees performing this role.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: Jack Link’s provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic that is protected by federal, state or local law.
E-VERIFY: Jack Link’s is a participant in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees. For information about the E-Verify program, please visit: http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify