Microbiologist

Mark Anthony Group•Waddell, AZ

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Mark Anthony Group is an entrepreneurial drinks company, built from the ground up by thinking differently, innovating and doing the unexpected. Our company is rooted in family values, a bold vision and relentless determination to continuously raise the bar and make a positive difference in consumers' lives. Founded in 1972, we’ve grown organically from a one-person import wine business into an international drinks company whose hallmarks include a portfolio of luxury wineries and iconic beverage brands, including White Claw® Hard Seltzer, Mike’s Hard Lemonade, and Cayman Jack. Role Purpose: The Microbiologist performs routine quality assurance to support production at the Glendale Brewery and supports U.S. Corporate Quality initiatives. This individual will collect and prepare samples for analytical and microbiological testing of ingredients, in-process and finished products. The role is responsible for the application of approved microbiological techniques and methodologies used in analytical testing. The Microbiologist works with a high attention to detail to compare analytical results to product specifications to quickly identify and report any product quality issues or concerns to operating managers and Senior Management. This role will work closely with all departments, particularly Brewing, Batching, Packaging, Corporate Quality, and external co-packers.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology, Biology, or Biochemistry required.
1-5+ years of microbiology experience with at least 1 year experience in food/carbonated beverage/alcohol preferred.
Must be at least 21 years of age.
Willing to work rotating shifts, overtime, and occasional weekends/holidays.
Strong analytical skills.
Demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy.
Knowledge of good laboratory practices, including sample prep, handling and record keeping.
Assist in managing non-conforming products to ensure they are not released without further analysis and Quality Manager approval
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize work while multitasking.
Demonstrate motivation and a good work ethic under minimal supervision.
Must work effectively in team environments.
Proficient with basic computer applications, including Excel, Microsoft Office, and Word.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing and performing Sensory analysis preferred.
Statistical process control skills and use of statistical analysis software preferred.
Bi-lingual skills preferred

Responsibilities

Prepare raw materials, in-process and finished product samples for microbiological analysis
Apply good sanitary method and aseptic techniques in daily workload
Prepare and maintain media and reagents as needed for daily microbiological testing
Perform quality control monitoring by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, running media controls, etc.
Perform routine analysis and provide timely and accurate data to all departments of the Glendale Brewery and the U.S. Quality Central Lab.
Evaluate finished goods quality and audit processes throughout production to ensure all specs are met and brewery/co-packers are operating within desired parameters.
Troubleshooting and resolving micro issues with product quality (at brewery, co-packer or consumer level) including initiating, escalating, implementing, and monitoring corrective actions.
Utilize GMPs to maintain a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient laboratory
Learn and understand processes throughout the facility to better assist with troubleshooting, determining root cause, isolating and dispositioning holds and working to resolve micro related customer complaints.
Help to develop quality specifications, information records and display data clearly and effectively
Operate and maintain lab equipment/instrumentation, not limited to PCR, autoclave, centrifuge, etc. Skillful with instrument calibration and maintenance as well as maintaining control charts to ensure instruments are performing properly.
Prioritize work in a fast-paced environment to limit downtime and keep operations moving
Manage laboratory inventory and sample retains. Maintain laboratory condition to include instruments, supplies, quality assurance programs, and accurate records throughout all procedures.
Assist with managing priorities and schedule to ensure that individual goals as well as team goals are achieved.
Responsible for SOP development, peer training, peer auditing, and peer recalibration.
Responsible for the safety of oneself and others working in the area
Perform product integrity and stability testing as needed.
Other related projects and duties as required.