QC Microbiologist – Food Manufacturing

QC Microbiologist – Food ManufacturingLocation: Athy, Co. KildareDepartment: Quality ControlReporting to: QC SupervisorSalary: CompetitiveJob Type: PermanentOur client is seeking an experienced QC Microbiologist to join their Quality Control team at their food manufacturing site in Athy, Co. Kildare.This is a hands-on microbiology role within a food manufacturing environment, suited to someone who has practical experience in microbiological testing, laboratory procedures, environmental monitoring and food safety.You will be responsible for carrying out and coordinating microbiological testing from sampling through to completion, interpreting results, supporting investigations and providing technical microbiology guidance to colleagues and other stakeholders across the business.Responsibilities:Microbiological Sampling & TestingCarry out routine microbiological sampling and testing in accordance with approved procedures and recognised methods.Perform practical laboratory techniques including sampling, transfers, streaking, dilutions, blending and plating.Use microbiological sampling and testing equipment including membrane filtration, Petrifilm, RODAC plates, sterile swabs, micropipettes and pipettes.Carry out testing using recognised microbiological methods and protocols, including FDA-BAM, AOAC, Compendium, FSIS, USP and other applicable standards.Accurately interpret, record and report microbiological results.Maintain high standards of GLP, GDP and GMP across laboratory and manufacturing activities.Ensure appropriate controls and verification activities are completed to maintain confidence in microbiological results.Environmental Monitoring & Food SafetySupport the site's Environmental Monitoring Programme.Carry out microbiological sampling within the manufacturing environment in accordance with established procedures.Support microbiological studies, validations and investigations through accurate data generation and analysis.Ensure all microbiological activities meet required food safety, quality, regulatory and health & safety standards.Investigations & Problem SolvingInvestigate microbiological queries, deviations and out-of-specification results.Analyse microbiological data and identify trends, issues and potential areas for improvement.Support root-cause investigations and recommend appropriate corrective actions or next steps.Apply basic statistical and data analysis techniques where appropriate.Provide technical microbiology input to quality and food safety investigations.Audits & ComplianceProvide microbiology support during internal audits, inspections and risk assessments.Support third-party and customer audits by providing technical information relating to microbiological testing and laboratory controls.Ensure laboratory records, documentation and testing activities remain audit-ready and compliant.Maintain accurate laboratory and sample documentation in line with company procedures.Systems, Data & Laboratory ManagementAccurately enter and maintain laboratory data, sample information and microbiological results within internal systems.Retrieve and analyse laboratory data as required for investigations, reporting and quality activities.Support the ordering and management of microbiology laboratory supplies.Liaise with third-party laboratories when external testing is required.Use Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook and Teams, for communication, reporting and collaboration.Requirements:A Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology with a Microbiology focus, or a related scientific discipline.2+ years’ experience in food microbiology/quality controlPractical experience carrying out microbiological sampling and testing.Good knowledge of GLP, GDP and GMP.Experience interpreting microbiological results and maintaining accurate laboratory documentation.An understanding of environmental monitoring and microbiological controls.Experience supporting investigations, deviations or out-of-specification results would be highly advantageous.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a methodical, detail-oriented approach.The ability to work confidently in both a laboratory and food manufacturing environment.Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain technical information clearly.Good organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple testing activities and priorities.Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office.An understanding of basic statistics and data analysis would be advantageous.A strong commitment to food safety, quality, health & safety and regulatory compliance.Benefits:Competitive salaryPension schemeAnnual leave entitlementFunded training and professional developmentCareer development and skills progression opportunitiesSupportive and collaborative working environmentEmployee wellbeing initiativesOpportunity to develop your career within a quality-focused food manufacturing environmentFor more information or to apply, please contact Aoife Regan.Email: aoife.regan@collinsmcnicholas.iePhone: (090) 6450 760