Pathogen Technician

Responsibilities

• Follows instructions on project methodology from laboratory management staff
• Ensures correctness and accuracy of information presented to Food Safety Center on samples
• Makes note of any sample and chain of custody differences in appropriate sample discrepancy logbook
• Efficiently performs tasks with a focus on speed and accuracy, ensuring timely completion while maintaining high quality and productivity standards in all assigned duties
• Runs tests as specified for National Beef and as directed by laboratory management
• Inputs all data and information from received samples into electronic data base system
• Prints and fills out required paperwork for samples received during shift
• Responsible for following all policies, procedures, and protocols as approved by upper management for sample setup
• Assists the inventory clerk, when needed, with the receiving of incoming supplies, recording of data into receiving logbook(s), and stocking
• Inspects all received supplies making note of the condition, lot numbers, and expiration dates in the appropriate supply usage log
• Affixes temperature accuracy and records all temperatures for incubators, refrigerators, and freezers on log-sheet
• Enters results and prints completed reports for issuance while maintaining accuracy of all data outlined in the reports
• Issues completed reports for received samples to appropriate customers
• Properly implements all procedure modifications as outlined by laboratory management staff
• Directs all questions concerning reports to a member of laboratory management staff
• Completes media growth and sterility quality assurance controls
• Maintains adequate levels of testing supplies
• Completes supply re-order log for needed supplies
• Ensures specified daily housekeeping duties are performed
• Completes weekly housekeeping tasks and log sheet
• Utilizes any available time to cross train in other areas
• Affords assistance to laboratory technicians in other areas in day to day duties when time permits or when needed
• Maintains accurate records for quality system traceability
• Ensures all decontamination steps for all samples that have been completed
• Completes all environmental quality assurance checks
• Carries out necessary testing as outlined by laboratory management for any pending results that have been determined by other team members
• Performs and completes any other duties assigned by FSCML management staff

Qualifications

• Good written/oral communication skills in English
• Self-Starter while being a team player
• Excellent organizational skills which allows for multitasking is a must
• Previous laboratory experience or science related course work preferred (must provide credentials/college completed course work)
• Excellent customer service skills with all levels- Upper management, Vendors, and production employees
• Must possess computer skills in Microsoft Programs (Excel, Word, Access, Power-Point, Outlook/email)
• Schedule flexibility, including additional hours and weekends as needed
• Must be willing to be cross trained in many facets of laboratory work
• Must be at least 18 years of age or older
• Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S.