CQC Sr. Lab Technician, Microbiology

Tate & Lyle•Hoffman Estates, IL

17d

About The Position

The CQC Sr. Lab Technician - Microbiology performs microbiological analyses of process, finished-product, and environmental samples to support manufacturing processes and finished-product quality control. The role may also support other Quality labs as needed and requires flexibility to cover vacations and other absences. The position reports to the Microbiology Laboratory Manager and is based in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, with scheduled hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Some flexibility in start and end times may be allowed; weekend work and overtime may be required. The technician prepares media and reagents, evaluates their quality, prepares and analyzes samples using established microbiological techniques, and records and reports results. Work is performed in accordance with site EHSQS policies and the established Quality System, including ISO 17025 standards. The role uses laboratory equipment such as Biomerieux VIDAS and VITEK systems, an autoclave, pH meter, microscope, and vacuum filtration systems, and records data in systems including LIMS, SAP, MDE, and electronic logbooks. Tate & Lyle describes its purpose as “Transforming Lives Through the Science of Food.” The company partners with food and beverage brands on ingredient innovation, with a focus on taste, nutrition, performance, and sustainability. It has approximately 5,000 colleagues across 75 locations in 38 countries and highlights innovation, collaboration, growth, and an inclusive workforce.

Requirements

A four-year college degree with technical training in microbiology, biological, physical, or engineering sciences; alternatively, an associate degree or equivalent with 2–3 years of proven experience.
Ability and willingness to follow the established Quality Manual, test methods, and SOPs.
Ability to multitask and prioritize with attention to detail, quality, and accuracy.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing procedures.
Good troubleshooting skills and ability to work well with others.
Excellent communication and computer skills.
Customer focus and understanding of customer needs.
Ability to lift 50 lbs.

Nice To Haves

Proven technical skills, including experience with microbiology laboratory work.
Experience with laboratory methodology and equipment.
Familiarity with aseptic techniques and equipment.

Responsibilities

Comply with site EHSQS policies, procedures, and regulations.
Learn, understand, and participate in the established Quality System to maintain ISO 17025 standards in the microbiology laboratory.
Prepare microbiological media and reagents, and perform quality control evaluations of received and in-house-prepared media and reagents.
Prepare and test samples using established microbiological techniques, including sample check-in and logging, compositing, test setup, test transfers, and result analysis and reporting.
Check and record temperatures of microbiology department refrigerators, freezers, and water baths daily.
Verify and record the calibration of the top-load balance used to weigh samples daily.
Enter and share information using LIMS, SAP, MDE, electronic logbooks, Excel spreadsheets, hard copies, and phone communication as appropriate.
Verify and review data entries and maintain data and sample retention.
Maintain and verify calibration of laboratory equipment and report deficiencies or malfunctions to the Quality Manager.
Maintain a clean, well-stocked laboratory.
Write or update test methods and SOPs as requested.
Identify and record nonconformities and potential nonconformities and help correct them as applicable.
Participate in ongoing and annual training, test method and SOP reviews, and proficiency testing as requested by the Quality Manager.
Provide coverage for vacations and other absences and support other Quality labs as needed.