FSQA Microbiology Technician

Ajinomoto Foods North America•Toluca, IL

11h•Onsite

About The Position

The Microbiology Technician (Micro Tech) will be responsible for conducting microbiological analyses to verify sanitary operating conditions and to assure the safety and quality of the manufacturing environment and finished products. Essential functions include providing technical assistance on all matters relating to the bacteriological analysis of products and materials, microbiological investigations and interpretation of analytical results, as well as the implementation of Ajinomoto Windsor microbiological procedures.

Requirements

A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Microbiology or Food Technology, Food Science or related field of study required
Demonstrated laboratory technique to perform serial dilutions, maceration of sample matrices, and plating technique required
Must possess good analytical, investigative and problem solving skills as well as the ability to integrate activities in the processing environment to cause and effect for bacteriological risk assessments and root cause analysis
Strong communication skills (reading, writing, verbal) are essential to interface with various levels of plant management, co-workers, and suppliers
A high level of organizational, mathematical, and recordkeeping skills required
Strong computer skills to include Microsoft Office and other data entry software required
Mental and physical ability to perform analytical tests through eye/hand coordination required
Must be willing to work together with co-workers as part of a team; also, must be self-motivated and able to work with little or no supervision
Must be willing to work variable hours as needed
Must be able to pass quarterly proficiency testing for microbial analysis

Nice To Haves

Broad experience in food manufacturing Food Safety and Quality Assurance and/or food plant production operations, processes, and policies strongly preferred
Certifications in HACCP, SQF, or through ASQ and other professional quality associations are preferred
Understanding of a micro lab process is strongly preferred
Good working knowledge of Root Cause Analysis (i.e. 5Y, Ishikawa). Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, PDCA, DMAIC and other quality tools strongly desired

Responsibilities

Perform required microbiological tests and apply the related technological knowledge to the implementation and maintenance of bacteriological testing and quality assurance programs
Orchestrate the collection of environmental, ingredient and finished product samples for bacteriological testing as needed
Maintain a current and comprehensive knowledge of microbiological testing and analysis procedures
Assist or independently conduct raw material/ingredient hazard analysis and risk assessments that may require microbial analysis, Certificates of Analysis, or export certification
Inspect equipment and facilities for cleaning deficiencies and other food safety issues
Participate on the positive swab investigative team as the leader, investigator or swab tech and maintain all records required for investigations
Assist in the training or instruction of laboratory personnel, and monitor assigned bacteriological tests
Ensure proper maintenance and operation of all bacteriological equipment, Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs) and maintain the cleanliness of the laboratory at all times
Prepare and maintain necessary records and reports and keep leadership advised on all technical matters within the facility pertaining to microbiological procedures, bacteriological analyses reports, etc.
Responsible for updating and maintaining the laboratory manual with all current policies and procedures, including the environmental site program and all related Corporate FSQA policies and procedures
Communicate with outside analytical laboratories as needed
Order and maintain laboratory supplies while adhering to the established department budget
Work with Sanitation Leadership to ensure compliance and effectiveness of the Master Sanitation Schedule
Follow all facility safety rules and regulations, FSQA programs, and regulatory requirements
Performs all other work as assigned