Scientist (Microbiology)

CONAGRA • Omaha, NE

1d • $70,000 - $80,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the Scientific Affairs Manager, you will perform applied research and routine microbiological testing to evaluate the properties of microorganisms in food and food processing environments. You will conduct a broad range of diagnostic and investigative laboratory work with limited supervision, ensuring timely, accurate, and cost effective analyses aligned with established laboratory methods, quality standards, and safety practices. You will support continuous improvement of laboratory procedures, mentor junior team members, and collaborate with plant laboratories and cross functional partners to address microbiological challenges.
A Taste of Your Responsibilities
Maintain compliance with ISO 17025 requirements.
Develop, document, update, and maintain laboratory standard operating procedures and approved methods.
Analyze ingredients, products, and related samples for spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms using techniques including VIDAS, PCR, and genetic based methods.
Plan and conduct applied research projects such as shelf-life studies, challenge studies, and special investigations.
Support troubleshooting of microbiological issues in food manufacturing environments.
Identify and assess new methods for microbial detection, enumeration, and identification.
Prepare monthly summaries of laboratory activities, trends, insights, and expenditures.
Guide and train laboratory technicians and associate microbiologists.
Maintain accurate laboratory data, documentation, and notebooks.
Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment and support a clean laboratory environment.
Prepare and edit technical reports.
Stay current with scientific literature and perform literature searches.
Perform duties related to quality assurance, research, and laboratory operations as assigned.
Order or assist with ordering laboratory supplies.
Serve as a leader and subject matter resource within the work area.
Interact with and guide plant laboratory personnel.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or a related field with three years of relevant experience; Master’s or Doctorate preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Knowledge of food safety, food development processes, and aseptic technique.
• Knowledge of molecular microbiology techniques including PCR, RTPCR, and genetic subtyping.
• Capacity to examine and follow technical procedures with precision.
• Capacity to collect and analyze data using basic statistics and write clear, concise reports.
• Capacity to adapt to changing priorities and varying levels of intensity in the work environment.
• Capability to work independently with limited supervision and collaborate effectively as part of a team.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship building skills.
• Experience presenting and communicating scientific data to diverse audiences.
• Weekend and overtime work required.
• Travel up to 10% to plant locations.
• Operates autoclaves, dishwashers, computers, and analytical equipment.
• Walks or stands 60% of the time; sits 40% of the time.
• Lifts and moves up to 50 lbs.
• Works around noise generated by laboratory equipment.
• Tolerates odors associated with microbiological testing.
• Works with food pathogens following established safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Maintain compliance with ISO 17025 requirements.
• Develop, document, update, and maintain laboratory standard operating procedures and approved methods.
• Analyze ingredients, products, and related samples for spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms using techniques including VIDAS, PCR, and genetic based methods.
• Plan and conduct applied research projects such as shelf-life studies, challenge studies, and special investigations.
• Support troubleshooting of microbiological issues in food manufacturing environments.
• Identify and assess new methods for microbial detection, enumeration, and identification.
• Prepare monthly summaries of laboratory activities, trends, insights, and expenditures.
• Guide and train laboratory technicians and associate microbiologists.
• Maintain accurate laboratory data, documentation, and notebooks.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment and support a clean laboratory environment.
• Prepare and edit technical reports.
• Stay current with scientific literature and perform literature searches.
• Perform duties related to quality assurance, research, and laboratory operations as assigned.
• Order or assist with ordering laboratory supplies.
• Serve as a leader and subject matter resource within the work area.
• Interact with and guide plant laboratory personnel.

Benefits

• Health: Comprehensive healthcare plans, wellness incentive program, mental wellbeing support and fitness reimbursement
• Wealth: Great pay, bonus incentive opportunity, matching 401(k) and stock purchase plan
• Growth: Career development opportunities, employee resource groups, on-demand learning and tuition reimbursement
• Balance: Paid-time off, parental leave, flexible work-schedules (subject to your location and role) and volunteer opportunities

What This Job Offers

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