Production Microbiologist

What you’ll be doing:

• Perform formulation and blending of liquid and dry products, applying basic algebra for calculations and adjustments.
• Operate production equipment including ribbon blenders, fill machines, mixers, and intermediate bulk containers (IBCs).
• Troubleshoot routine equipment issues and escalate more complex problems as needed.
• Execute batch production activities in accordance with SOPs and batch records, ensuring accurate and real-time documentation.
• Maintain cleanliness of production areas, equipment, and warehouse in accordance with company standards.

Laboratory & Microbiology Support:

• Prepare media and seed flasks for fermentation processes.
• Perform flask inoculation using proper aseptic technique.
• Operate laboratory equipment including autoclaves.
• Conduct microbiological testing including serial dilutions and plate counts (CFU enumeration).
• Support basic operation and monitoring of centrifuges and reactors under supervision.

Inventory, Systems & Logistics:

• Perform inventory cycle counts of raw materials and maintain material accuracy.
• Utilize ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite) to review orders and support production-related transactions.
• Complete order fulfillment activities, including preparation of shipments and coordination of small parcel shipments (e.g., FedEx).
• Operate labeling and printing systems (e.g., Afinia printer) for production and shipping needs.

Team & Operational Support:

• Collaborate with production operators and microbiology team members to meet daily production goals.
• Provide basic guidance and knowledge sharing to production staff as skills develop.
• Support cross-functional activities across product lines (e.g., SLP, AG, Bombigro) with supervision.
• Identify discrepancies in SOPs or batch records and escalate for correction.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support business operations.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biology or related scientific field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• 0-2 years of experience in a laboratory, manufacturing, or production environment (internships or academic lab work acceptable).
• Basic understanding of microbiology techniques including Aseptic technique, Streaking and plating, Serial dilutions and CFU enumeration, Media preparation.
• Basic math skills, including algebra and scientific notation.
• Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
• Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately document work in real time.
• Ability to work in both laboratory and production/warehouse environments.
• Exposure to Fermentation processes or bioprocessing preferred.
• Experience with basic production equipment or warehouse operations a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Ability to move throughout production, laboratory, and warehouse environments for extended periods of time (frequent walking and standing).
• Ability to remain in a stationary position for periods of time while performing laboratory work, documentation or data analysis.
• Ability to perform tasks that require bending, reaching, kneeling, crouching, and positioning to operate and maintain equipment.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull materials up to 50-55lbs on an occasional basis.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to operate laboratory equipment, tools, computers, and machinery controls.
• Ability to visually inspect equipment, materials, and products for quality and accuracy, including close vision and color differentiation where applicable.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), which may include gloves, lab coats, safety glasses, respirators, or other protective gear.
• Ability to work in environments requiring adherence to strict hygiene, contamination control, and safety protocols.
• Work may involve exposure to biological materials, chemicals, and fermentation processes, requiring adherence to safety protocols and proper use of PPE.
• Work may involve occasional exposure to outdoor conditions when moving between areas or supporting shipping/receiving activities.