Lab Technician III, Microbiology

Summary Description: The Lab Technician III, Microbiology assists the Microbiology Department by sampling and performing microbiological testing of milk, dry dairy, cheese, and environmental samples. In addition, this position supports the Microbiology and Analytical Services teams by providing overall lab support, acting as a dependable and accurate technical resource, and sharing knowledge and innovative ideas to continuously improve the company.

Job Duties (Accountability Categories and Essential Functions/Key Responsibilities):  NOTE:  The job may include other “non-essential” responsibilities and duties that are not listed on this form.

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Accountability Category

Essential Functions/Key Responsibilities

% of Time

1

Lab Assistance

• Cleans lab equipment and glassware
• Disposes of test tubes and fills distilled water jugs
• Performs basic sample preparation duties, such labeling, organizing, labeling, diluting pipetting, and clean-up.

45%

2

Media Preparation

• Prepares sterile augers, broths, and reagents for required daily testing
• Tracks inventory of lab media and reagents
• Performs quality control check on all media

25%

3

General Housekeeping

• Performs basic housekeeping duties in the lab

10%

4

Inventory

• Maintains appropriate lab inventory, ordering and receiving supplies for the lab.  Prepares, labels, weighs-out samples aseptically organized (by plant) Collabs.

10%

5

Autoclave Operation

• Loads, unloads and operates autoclave for the sterilization of media, glassware, trash and dilution water

10%

Minimum Qualifications & Experience:

• Associates or bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology or equivalent experience

Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

• Previous work experience in lab environment

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities/Competencies: 

• Some knowledge of chemistry/microbiology is desired to operate pipettes, balances, autoclave and other pertinent laboratory equipment
• Basic knowledge of microbiology concepts, principles, and theories
• Ability to follow written procedures carefully and with accuracy within the Microbiology laboratory
• Ability to work in a team as part of a high-volume laboratory
• Ability to organize information in a manner understandable to others-verbally and written
• Ability to accept and understand instructions/direction and progress toward the stated objective
• Basic math, organizational, and analytical skills

Working Relationships: 

• This position normally reports in to the Supervisor level.
• This position typically interacts with other Global Quality team members, and manufacturing plants

Physical/Mental Requirements and Work Environment:

Work Environment Description:

• Works in an office setting and is generally sedentary, but may involve movement (e.g., walking, standing, or otherwise being mobile throughout the office) for brief periods of time.
• May be required to occasionally independently move and handle objects up to 30 pounds.

The following physical and mental activities are necessary to perform the essential functions of this job.

Additional: