Microbiology Technician

About the role

As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 32 countries, we offer to our customers a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods. External growth has been a key pillar of our history with more than 40 acquisitions completed in the last 10 years.

Responsibilities

• Prepare sample for analysis by recording, weighing, and blending
• Write identification onto plates so that client and sample number can be tracked
• Pipette sample solution into tubes or plates according to the analysis process being performed
• Pour the agar into plates or tubes to begin the growth process
• Collect plates and place them in the incubator for the specified amount of time and temperature
• Prepare media and broth for use in pathogen testing as required
• Ensure that media and materials are prepared for the next testing sequence
• Maintain knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that is required to complete job responsibilities
• Set up equipment and materials needed for analysis
• Read plates and tubes, as required, to determine the number of organisms in the sample
• Support corporate quality and continuous improvement process
• Perform necessary housekeeping duties in a timely manner, keeping the work areas and equipment clean and sanitized
• Must participate in cleaning schedule and maintain retain samples as required
• Adhere to all safety policies
• Responsibility to support laboratory management in the implementation maintenance, and improvement of the management system
• Perform other related tasks as needed

Requirements

• Must be able to work evenings and weekends
• HS Diploma and 1+ year relevant work experience
• Basic knowledge of science to accurately perform testing procedures and obtain accurate results
• Basic knowledge of personal computers to accurately enter testing data and results
• Basic knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and policies to ensure a safe working environment
• Planning skills to maintain supplies of analysis materials and ensure analysis is completed within specified time

Skills

• Time management skills and ability to prioritize samples and tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Attention to detail
• Analytical skills essential to complete analysis procedures and determine the concentration of the microorganism
• General knowledge of the Laboratory Information Management System to process client data
• Physical dexterity required for manipulating samples

Work Environment

• Laboratory setting with proper lighting and temperature control
• Occasional exposure to laboratory fumes, chemicals, and materials
• Safety equipment such as gloves, laboratory coat, and eyeglasses may be required depending on the testing process
• May use the autoclave daily to complete the analysis process
• Continuous lifting of analysis materials weighing up to 50 pounds to transport media materials
• Extended time spent in a standing position
• Ability to detect slight variation in shades of colors

Pay

$18.00 - $19.00 per hour USD, Full Time

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Generous paid time off (PTO) package to support work-life balance following state and local ordinances
• Optional 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions