Quality Control Microbiologist

QC Microbiology TechnicianOur client are currently recruiting for a QC Microbiology Technician role is responsible for executing day-to-day microbiological testing, environmental monitoring, and contamination control procedures to ensure the highest standards of food safety and regulatory compliance. This is a permanent role with on-site working.Responsibilities:Microbiological Analysis: Conduct routine and non-routine microbiological testing on incoming raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products (including plating for Total Plate Count, Yeast & Mold, Coliforms, and screening for pathogens).Environmental Monitoring: Execute the site’s Environmental Monitoring Program (EMP), including air sampling, surface swabbing of equipment, and microbial testing of facility water systems.Aseptic Technique & Media Prep: Prepare, sterilize, and verify culture media and reagents. Ensure strict adherence to aseptic techniques during all sampling and testing phases to prevent cross-contamination.Data Management & Documentation: Maintain accurate, contemporaneous records of all laboratory data. Review and file Certificates of Analysis (CoAs) and ensure all microbial testing results comply with internal and regulatory specifications.Out-of-Specification (OOS) Investigations: Immediately flag and investigate any out-of-specification or spiking microbial trends. Support root-cause analysis and the implementation of corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).Laboratory Maintenance: Clean, calibrate, and maintain critical laboratory equipment (e.g., autoclaves, incubators, biosafety cabinets, and pH meters). Manage the safe segregation, treatment, and disposal of biohazardous laboratory waste.Inventory Control: Monitor and maintain stock levels of laboratory consumables, dehydrated media, and testing kits to ensure uninterrupted laboratory operations.Compliance & Safety: Adhere strictly to Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), biosafety protocols, and corporate testing methodologies.Requirements:Education: Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Food Science, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline.Experience: Minimum of 2 years of hands-on laboratory experience within a food/beverage or highly regulated manufacturing environment, with a strong focus on classic microbiology plating techniques.Technical Skills: Proficiency in aseptic sample handling, media preparation, culture isolation, and standard laboratory calculations (e.g., CFU/g calculation). Strong computer literacy (MS Excel, Word).Compliance Knowledge: Familiarity with food safety management systems (such as HACCP and FSSC 22000), GMPs, and GLPs.Core Competencies: Meticulous attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for reporting critical micro data to cross-functional teams.