Microbiology Lab Technician

About the role

This position will report to the QA Lab Supervisor. Travel Requirement: N/A. Location: Bakersfield, CA. FLSA Status: Hourly Non-Exempt. Employment Category: Full Time Regular. Pay Range: $20.25 - $22.75. Generous Brands is dedicated to inspiring people to thrive through the power of vibrant nutrition through its leading brands, Bolthouse Farms, Health-Ade, and Evolution Fresh.

Responsibilities

• Execute the daily laboratory operation and ensure the Laboratory Quality Management System is implemented and maintained in accordance with ISO 17025 standards.
• Handle data/report and resources (equipment, supplies) to ensure that required testing is completed.
• Maintain records and manage all aspects of testing activities.
• Prepare media and agar plates for testing and recording on media logs.
• Perform pour & petrifilm plating, count plates and record results.
• Report out of specification conditions and summarize test results.
• Perform sample preparation and testing of raw materials, finished products and others.
• Complete data/information recording, follow the status of testing, generating reports and communicating findings of those test results supporting the manufacture of quality products.
• Run membrane filtration (water testing method) and PCR method and record results.
• Maintain the safety, cleanliness and hygienic laboratory work environment including periodic/planned maintenance, cleaning and monitoring of equipment and the work areas.
• Follow lab safety protocols to maintain lab hygiene and eliminate cross contamination.
• Participate in proficiency program and test control samples.
• Absorb or perform other duties/projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Associate degree is required or bachelor’s degree in one of the following areas: Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biochemistry or related areas. Equivalent experience in a related field can be substituted for education.
• Math skills combined with the ability to perform and understand scientific based tests and results.
• Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms.
• Knowledge of computer applications such as Microsoft Office Excel, Word, etc.
• Communicate and interact well with others in the laboratory and manufacturing environment.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision and apply Good Laboratory Practices.

Preferred Qualifications

• Some experience in Microbiology/Chemistry lab in the food-processing environment.

Physical Demands & Environmental Hazards

The work environment for this position will be typical of the manufacturing facility. There are portions of the job that will require working in cold (< 40°F) environments, in warm environments (>90°F), and loud environments. Must be able to work in a wet, cold, or hot environment. Must be able to lift up to 50lbs.

Hours & Workdays

2nd shift Friday-Tuesday, 2:00pm – 10:30pm & 4:00pm – 12:30am when business requires overtime, weekends will be mandatory.