Microbiologist

Job Description

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

The function of this job is to perform advanced analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmentals. The position consistently exercises independent judgment and discretion in performing the application and evaluation of approved microbiological techniques and methodologies used in analytical testing, and the interpretation of test results. This role has training and supervisory responsibilities as needed.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Accurately perform and read test results and notify Laboratory Management of deviations
• Prepare and analyze samples for indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemistries
• Apply aseptic / microbiological techniques in daily workload
• Apply independent judgement in the interpretation of qualitative test results
• Conduct additional testing as needed based upon independent review of test results
• Accurately perform final determination of special micros and complete final results disposition
• Communicate results including pathogenic confirmations and maintain a positive relationship with clients
• Report inventory and expendable supplies / materials needed for testing requirements
• Provide routine preventive maintenance by daily cleaning, sanitizing, trash disposal, and equipment quality control
• Assist in quality control duties to by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, running media controls, etc.
• Assist with training and research assignments including troubleshooting
• Independently pursue an assigned series of processes, procedures, or techniques in accordance with FSNS policies / procedures and customer requirements
• Assisting in developing and revising Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Maintain a high degree of technical competence by reading scientific journals, attending professional workshops, and being aware of food industry issues and trends
• Perform all activities in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner
• Share information in an open and timely manner
• Assist with managing priorities and schedule
• Responsible for the safety of oneself and others working within their area
• Responsible for the completion of required training
• Travel is required and at the discretion of management

OTHER DUTIES

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following :

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

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. FSNS complies with its reasonable accommodation obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act and state law.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Safety :

PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS

Employees in this role will be evaluated after 90 calendar days from date of hire and annually thereafter based on the following proficiencies :

All FSNS employees must be proficient in the following :