Title:Microbiologist
Req Number:hein-00003194
Location(s):Le CenterMN

PURPOSE

The overall purpose of this position is to monitor, test and report on an on-going basis the microbiological activity of the manufacturing environment, raw materials, finished goods, equipment, etc. Investigates and partners with other functions to determine contamination sources and takes corrective actions to eliminate sources. Studies growth, structure, development, and general characteristics of bacteria and other micro-organisms by performing the duties listed below.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

Microbiology

1. Uses knowledge of testing methods and manually operates required equipment utilizing testing supplies to perform microbiological examinations.

2. Tests component samples from production lines, and tracks contamination source in product and takes appropriate corrective actions to insure that the source is eliminated. Takes MCMP swabs on environmental and food contact surfaces, to meet USDA program requirements.

3. Test incoming ingredients, then record and track results to ensure vendor compliance with ingredient specifications. Maintain and update Certificate of Analysis file.

4. Develop, audit, review, and revise MCMP Program.

5. Develop testing methods and frequencies for all raw and frequencies for all raw material environmental finished product and equipment.

6. Tests, records, and reports, results of finished product to ensure that no contaminated product goes to the consumer. Works to resolve issues.

7. Tests, checks, and reports results of wastewater discharge to ensure that we are in compliance with the discharge permit. Completes annual chemical inventory, works with the maintenance department to ensure policy compliance.

8. Investigates and reports problems to prevent micro/GMP/Listeria problems. In addition, the candidate will partner with other functional teams in determining root cause and driving subsequent corrective action for all microbiological and quality issues within the facility.

9. Complete all other duties as assigned.
Reporting.

1. Provides corporate and factory management with reports on holds/releases, environmental tests and special tests as required.
Training.

1. Will coach, counsel, and provide technical training to Lab Technicians and microbiologist assistants.
Human Resources

1. Interviews, evaluates, and make recommendations for hire of prospective employees.

2. Establishes and practices positive discipline policies and procedures and works with HR to resolve disciplinary issues as needed.

3. Observes and evaluates employee performance and provides appropriate performance feedback.

4. Reports any human resources issues to management.

5. Keeps employees up to date regarding departmental, factory, and company performance, issues, and information
Budget and Cost Control.

1. Assists in maintaining departmental operating budget at a positive variance.

2. Participates in meetings to reduce factory costs related to improving the product quality and safety programs.

3. Establishes stable working relationships with vendors to ensure timely and economical resolution of quality issues.

4. Recommends cost effective methods and programs to management.

Safety

1. Oversees safety processes including, but not limited to goal setting; hazard recognition and elimination; administration of safety procedures and corresponding corrective action; area inspection; job skills; compliance training; accident investigation; and safety meetings.

2. Must have knowledge of the type, magnitude, hazards, and means to control all energy types. Also follow all proper lockout/tagout procedures prior to (but not limited to) setting up, cleaning, servicing, adjusting, clearing or entering equipment.

3. Provides a safe and healthful work environment for all sanitation and quality assurance personnel through consistent support of the Company's 9-Key Element Process

KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE/COMPENTENCIES

The Microbiologist must possess the following minimal education and experience:

'Bachelor's Degree (BS) from four-year from college or university -prefer Food Science or Microbiology degree

'Experience in a food manufacturing facility is highly preferred

'Experience with the USDA is highly preferred

'One to three years of prior laboratory experience/knowledge to include one year of supervisory experience

'Sanitation experience/knowledge a plus

'Excellent writing/verbal communication skills and ability to provide leadership, teamwork, and cooperation

'Good computer skills