R&D Microbiology Lab Technician

R&D Microbiology Lab Technician

Job Description

Role Summary
The R&D Microbiology Lab Technician supports daily testing and lab operations for client's Microbiology team. This role performs routine microbiological tests on beverages and ingredients, prepares basic lab materials, follows Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and helps run small studies under the direction of the Microbiology team. Accurate sample handling, testing, documentation, and communication are essential.

Key Responsibilities
Sample handling & testing: Receive, log, label, and process R&D and pilot-plant samples; execute routine tests (e.g., APC, coliforms, yeast & mold), swabs/rinse waters, per defined client methods and micro sampling plans; document results with precision.
Culture collection: Maintain and update the laboratory culture collection per department practices.
Media & reagent preparation: Prepare high-quality culture media, buffers, and reagents; perform sterility checks; maintain lot and expiration records.
Result reporting: Record, verify, and route test outcomes; notify stakeholders of releases or out-of-spec findings in line with the client release procedures.
Quality system & GLP: Follow SOPs, data integrity and traceability practices; support QC programs and proficiency activities; uphold safety and GLP standards.
Digital/lab systems: Use SharePoint/DM templates and LIMS/recording tools for sample tracking and data entry (as applicable to the client).

Minimum Qualifications
Education: B.S. in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or related discipline with microbiology coursework/labs.
Experience: 1+ years hands-on experience in a microbiology lab (or equivalent academic, internship or co-op experience)
Soft skills: Strong attention to detail, ability to follow written procedures, teamwork, communication, and time management.

Tools & Equipment (Client Lab)
Role involves routine use of: autoclave (bench/stand-alone), incubators (walk-in/benchtop), membrane filtration units, biosafety cabinet/laminar flow hood, refrigerators/freezers, waterbaths, colony counters, microscopes, pH meters, balances, UV lamp; plus standard PPE and lab supplies per client SOPs.

Compliance, Health & Safety
Adhere to site EHS policies, micro lab safety manuals, and GLP standards; complete required safety modules and maintain LQS logs (temperature recording, cleaning schedules).
Follow R&D micro release requirements and documentation practices when products are intended for consumption by non-R&D person

Notes:
Onsite
Monday-Friday, 8AM-5PM

VIVA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants have an equal opportunity for placement, and all employees have an equal opportunity to develop on the job. This means that VIVA will not discriminate against any employee or qualified applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.