Microbiologist Specialist
The Microbiologist Specialist is responsible for the implementation of the corporate microbiological control programs at the plant level in collaboration with other key functions to ensure production meets the requirements of the microbiological standards and operating procedures.
Microbiological control programs include, but are not limited to: Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) and other associated prerequisite programs, cleaning and sanitization, environmental monitoring, finished product testing & release, and corrective and preventive actions. In addition, this position will provide comprehensive microbiological support, training and guidance to site food safety teams.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop and implement microbiology initiatives and programs
- Utilize process and microbiological metrics to anticipate potential problems and recognize existing problems that could impact product safety and quality
- Assist in the development and implementation of mitigation strategies to reduce microbiological risks, including cleaning & sanitization, cGMP and preventive controls
- Supports FSMA initiatives and regulatory activities ensuring manufacturing sites are operating in compliance with all applicable microbial, food safety, quality and regulatory requirements
- Provide support for site micro non-conformance investigations. Provide guidance for preventive and/or corrective action plans. Lead improvement process for capturing learning from failures and sharing knowledge with all relevant stakeholders
- Assist in developing and revising Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Ensure microbiology and food safety records are appropriately documented. Ensure the interpretation of the data is correct and the results are effectively communicated to appropriate individuals
- Promote and organize training sessions to relevant stakeholders to build microbiology and food safety knowledge within facilities
- Provides and shares insight into managing microbiological hazards in post-extrusion added ingredients
- Consults with contract manufacturing team to ensure compliance with Hill’s internal standards and regulatory requirements.
- Maintain a high degree of technical competence by reading scientific journals, attending professional workshops, and being aware of food industry issues and trends
This is not an exhaustive list of duties or functions.
EXPECTED AREAS OF SKILLS:
- Knowledge of food microbiology test methods and method qualification
- Proficient knowledge of food microbiology, cleaning and sanitizing applications in low-moisture food environment, and sanitary design of equipment and facilities
- Proficient in reviewing, understanding, and interpreting microbiological data
- Ability to collect relevant information, identify trends and patterns and communicate
- Ability to identify, define and analyze problems to determine root cause(s) and identify possible solutions
- Proficient in developing and presenting business presentation to Senior Management
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
- Proficient Knowledge of HACCP, preventive controls, and cGMPs
- Proficient in reviewing, understanding, and interpreting microbiological data
- Excellent ability to multitask and prioritize duties
- Proficient Computer skills including; Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and SAP
- Ability to perform data analysis utilizing Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, Tableau or equivalent software applications
- Excellent project management skills
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:
● Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or related scientific field such as Food Science or Biology
● At least 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing/ plant operations environment
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:
● Master’s degree or higher in Microbiology or related scientific field
● Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) Certification
● Experience in a pet food or low-moisture food manufacturing environment
● Auditing / audit skills experience in quality or food safety management systems, including internal / external auditing for compliance
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to bend, climb, crawl, work in confined spaces, work in hazardous condition spaces, work in extreme weather conditions, use hazardous materials, and lift up to 50 lbs. on a continual basis and work in a standard office environment
- Ability to work in a standard office environment