
Microbiologist-Lab Technician - Weekend Shift
- Eden Prairie, MN
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to uphold food safety and product integrity.
- Consistently follow safety protocols and wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in designated areas.
- Collaborate and communicate effectively with team members from diverse backgrounds, cultures, abilities, languages, or perspectives.
- Comply with all company policies and procedures.
- Conduct Environmental Monitoring of the Production Areas; process microbiological samples daily as needed.
- Conduct pre-operative and operative inspections as needed.
- Prepare media and operate autoclaves as necessary.
- Author and complete Out of Spec investigations as needed based on testing results.
- Provide Microbiology representation during audits when necessary.
- Assist manager in creating and maintaining all laboratory programs. Make suggestions as necessary to keep up with current industry standards.
- Assist in helping perform and maintain shelf-life studies.
- Assure all test procedures are performed according to standard work.
- Assist with facilitating/attending meetings related to the micro department.
- Conduct reviews in Red Zone and sign-off on pre-shipment reviews as necessary.
- Maintain and order supplies for the micro lab as needed.
- Participate and pass quarterly AOAC testing.
- Perform visual inspections and Environmental Monitoring during and after the sanitation process. (Applicable to Eden Prairie weekend shift only)
- Ensure chemicals are at the appropriate strength.
- Perform Calibration verifications on thermometers (IRs/probes) daily before production start-up.
- Document non-compliances and corrective actions and communicate results
- Report hazardous conditions to Microbiology Manager or Production Manager/Supervisor.
- Perform Calibration verifications on thermometers (IRs/probes) daily before production start-up. (Applicable to Eden Parire weekend shift only.)
- Provide support to the Sanitation Team as needed. (Applicable to Eden Prairie weekend shift only.)
- Professionally represent the department when interacting with other departments within EA Sween as well as suppliers and regulatory agencies.
- Computer and calculator
- Lab equipment, including but not limited to digital thermometer, probe, incubators, microscope, pipettors/pipets, stirrer-hot plate, thermometers and autoclave.
- Safety glasses, gloves, hair net, ear plugs, and smock.
- BS degree in Food Science or Life Science with an emphasis in microbiology preferred or 5+ years’ related experience.
- 1-3 years of experience specifically in Food Safety & Quality role.
- Must be able to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
- Attention to precision and detail; able to problem solve situations.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook); able to operate iPad and perform basic math.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Able to work independently as well as part of a team.
- Experience with verification and validation requirements for SQF or BRC certification
- Must have the ability to effectively speak and teach in front of groups of people.
- Maintain and extend a positive attitude to work environment and be able to accept/withstand negative feedback from others
- PCQI Certification
- General HACCP certification
- Seafood HACCP certification
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 10 lbs continuously and up to 25 lbs occasionally.
- Must be able to work in a cool environment (32-45 degrees) continuously and occasionally in cold environment (-10 to 32 degrees)
- Able to stand on feet continuously and sitting at desk frequently.
- Continuous hand/finger movements throughout shift.
- Value People Most of All: Show respect & care, embrace diversity, and empower others.
- Commit to Safety Everyday: See something say something do something, practice safe behavior, and celebrate safety success.
- Invest in Our Company to Thrive: Share ideas to improve, learn & grow, and embrace change.
- Think Before Doing And Act Decisively: Make thoughtful decisions, work together to find solutions, and do what’s right.
- Welcome Constructive Straight Talk: Be honest and respectful even when difficult, be open to ideas and feedback, and ask questions to understand.
- Serve Up Exceptional Experiences: Provide value to customers, take pride in your work, and help others to be successful.
- Enjoy What You Do!: Have a positive attitude, Live the Spirit of E.A. Sween, and celebrate success