Lead QA Microbiology Technician

Job Title : Lead QA Microbiology Technician Location : Fairfield, New Jersey Hours / Schedule : Monday–Friday, 7 : 00 AM–3 : 00 PM (40 hours / week) Type : Contract Compensation : $30 per hour Position Overview We are seeking an experienced 1st shift QA Technician with strong microbiology skills and the ability to lead quality efforts on the production floor. This role supports daytime operations through microbiological testing, analytical checks, and direct oversight of line quality activities. Candidates must bring at least 5 years of QA / QC experience, advanced microbiology exposure, and the ability to act as a lead resource when production teams require immediate decisions. Strong 1st-shift QA coverage is essential to maintain FDA, HACCP, GMP, and customer compliance as production ramps up across the plant. The site continues to expand output, creating steady needs for microbiology-focused QA talent. Responsibilities Production Line Oversight & Quality Lead start-of-day QA checks and verify operation of metal detectors, X-ray units, and checkweighers Oversee routine line audits including net weights, moisture / salt, blend formulas, labels, closures, and packaging compliance Provide direction to production staff on quality issues during the shift Document and escalate any non-compliant or out-of-spec results Validate product specifications, lot codes, and customer requirements Microbiological & Analytical Testing (Primary Focus) Perform microbiological testing including APC, yeast / mold, and environmental swabbing Conduct analytical tests : pH, moisture / salt, gas levels, and equipment verification Maintain and calibrate microbiology lab instruments and incubators Interpret, document, and communicate microbiological findings Food Safety & Regulatory Compliance Follow and enforce GMP, HACCP, and FDA food safety standards Document deviations, incidents, and QA holds Stop production immediately if unsafe or non-compliant conditions are identified Support daytime investigations and corrective actions Equipment & Recordkeeping Calibrate pH meters, salt meters, moisture analyzers, gas meters, and related QA tools Maintain all QA logs, microbiological data, and equipment documentation Support troubleshooting and preventive maintenance during the shift Requirements 5+ years QA / QC experience in food, dairy, or related manufacturing Strong microbiology background, including APC / yeast-mold testing and environmental monitoring Ability to serve as the lead QA resource during daytime operations Prior supervisory or lead technician experience preferred Strong communication, documentation, and problem-solving skills Comfortable in both production and microbiology lab environments Benefits System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé, ALTA IT Services, and Mountain Ltd., are leaders in delivering outsourced services and workforce solutions across North America. We help clients get work done more efficiently and economically, without compromising quality. System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, as well as participation in a 401(k) plan. System One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, family care or medical leave status, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. #M3 Ref : #558-Scientific