Microbiologist

McKee Foods • Collegedale, TN

1d • Onsite

About The Position

McKee Foods Corporation is seeking a Food Microbiologist to join its Microbiology Lab. The role provides exposure to many facets of microbiological testing and an opportunity to apply technical skills and knowledge in support of food safety and quality in food manufacturing. The position includes preparing microbiological media and samples, completing quality tests, and supporting the Microbiology team. The Microbiologist also provides technical expertise and leadership on microbiological issues, develops laboratory methods and operating procedures, and may travel as needed (estimated 5%).

This is an on-site, first-shift position at 10606 Apison Pike, Collegedale, Tennessee. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The advertised salary is $56,500–$73,400 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. The position is part of a career ladder that includes grades 3–7, indicating potential for advancement.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field.
• School laboratory or internship experience.
• Ability to work in a team environment to accomplish continuous improvement.
• Ability to understand and communicate effectively using appropriate technical terminology.
• Ability to handle a high degree of confidentiality.
• Ability to handle detailed paperwork and maintain records.
• Excellent organizational, prioritization, and time-management skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to gain the respect of peers and management.
• High initiative and ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to interact with all levels of the organization.
• Willingness to receive additional training.
• Flexibility to travel as needed.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree in Food Microbiology or a related field.
• One or more years of related work experience.
• Knowledge of, or experience with, ISO principles for laboratories.
• Technical knowledge of low-moisture food manufacturing processes and related microbiological risks.

Responsibilities

• Provide expertise and functional support for the microbiology lab, including preparing media, plating samples, operating automated detection equipment, and entering test results.
• Provide leadership in solving problems and recommending company direction related to microbiological issues.
• Develop technical methods and operating procedures for the microbiology lab.
• Support microbiological testing and food safety and quality work in food manufacturing.
• Travel as needed, estimated at 5%.

Benefits

• Competitive weekly pay.
• Profit-sharing cash bonus program.
• 401(k) with matching contributions.
• 25 days of paid time off for vacation, holidays, sick time, personal time, and other uses.
• Medical insurance, including health, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans.
• Supplemental plans, including life insurance.
• Fully paid parental leave.
• Health Center and Pharmacy.
• Mental wellness counseling, on-site in Tennessee and virtual elsewhere.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Credit Union.
• Exercise and recreation facility.
• Wellness programs with incentives.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability benefits.
• Work-life balance and guaranteed time off.
• Long-term job security and career paths.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level