Food Microbiology Senior Technologist - Land O'Lakes Inc.

The Senior Microbiology Food Technologist will work with a team of food microbiologists performing food safety, quality, and research related lab activities. They will work as part of a team to assist with daily activities, lab testing, and managing work priorities to accomplish team goals, as well as independently when applicable.

Primary responsibilities:

• Apply aseptic techniques and follow standard operating procedures on a daily basis.
  
• Perform routine microbial analysis on dairy samples, including standard plate count, coliform, lactics, yeast and mold using cultural agar and petrifilm methodologies. Increasing responsibilities will include shelf life management, data compilation, final project summary reports, and communicating results to customer.
  
• Document data, results, and observations in LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) and/or ELN (electronic lab notebook).
  
• Participate in and contribute to cross functional project teams.
  
• Maintain media and reagents needed for testing. Make media based on project needs. Operate laboratory equipment including autoclaves, dishwashers, analytical balance, pH meter, and microscopes.
  
• Lead the calibration of equipment including thermometers, temperature probes, and weight sets
  
• Perform quality monitoring which includes biological indicators, media controls, cultures, air check plates, etc.
  
• Perform routine preventive maintenance such as daily cleaning, waste disposal, and equipment maintenance.
  
• Clean and sterilize lab glassware and materials for testing.
  
• Updating and writing SOPs (standard operating procedures).
  
• Keep inventory, receive, and stock materials and supplies for laboratory use.
  
• Place daily laboratory orders for all lab supplies through multiple vendors
  
• Full-time on-site position
  

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent with 4+ years of microbial testing experience required.
  
• BS degree in Microbiology, Food Science, Biology or related field with 2+ years microbial food testing experience preferred.
  
• Proficient computer skills in Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams etc. plus ability to learn new computer systems/applications quickly. LIMS, ELN, or Ariba experience a plus.
  

Skills:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills
  
• Understanding of experimental design and scientific approach with solid data analysis capability
  
• Advanced knowledge of microbiological procedures and handling of biological material
  
• Ability and passion for hands-on laboratory
  

About Land O'Lakes, Inc.

Join us and be part of a Fortune 250, farmer- and member-owned cooperative that is reimagining the business of food. We have been named a Top Workplace by Indeed and LinkedIn, and to the TIME 100 Most Influential Companies list.

We provide a broad portfolio of benefits to keep you and your family at your best. Land O'Lakes is Where Your Future Takes Root.

Land O'Lakes, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) M/F/Vets/Disabled. The company maintains a drug-free workforce, including post-employment substance abuse testing pursuant to a Drug and Alcohol Policy.

Neither Land O'Lakes, nor its search firms, will ever contact you and ask for confidential information over the phone or in email. If you receive a call or email like this, please do not provide the information being requested.