Job Description:
Summary:
The R&D Microbiology Laboratory Technician provides technical and laboratory support to Global R&D Microbiological Sciences team. This role is responsible for performing routine microbiological testing, preparing microbiological media and reagents, supporting product safety and quality programs, and assisting with challenge studies, shelf-life studies, and other research activities. The successful candidate will work closely with R&D microbiologists to ensure timely, accurate, and compliant laboratory operations that support innovation, product development, and consumer testing initiatives.
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 Valhalla methods and micro sampling plans; document results with precision.
· Media & reagent preparation: Prepare high‐quality culture media, buffers, and reagents; perform sterility checks; maintain lot and expiration records.
· Support studies: Assist Microbiologists during microbiological challenge/qualification studies (inoculation, monitoring, data capture); ensure aseptic technique and adherence to protocols.
· Result reporting: Record, verify, and route test outcomes; notify stakeholders of releases or out‐of‐spec findings in line with Valhalla release procedures.
· Lab operations: Maintain inventory, order supplies/consumables; perform equipment checks and cleaning (incubators, waterbaths, refrigerators/freezers) and complete LQS logs/SOPs.
· Quality system & GLP: Follow SOPs, data integrity and traceability practices; support QC programs and proficiency activities; uphold safety and GLP standards.
· Culture collection: Maintain and update the laboratory culture collection per department practices.
· Digital/lab systems: Use SharePoint/DM templates and LIMS/recording tools for sample tracking and data entry (as applicable to Valhalla).
Minimum Qualifications:
· Education: B.S. in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or related discipline with microbiology coursework/labs.
· Experience: 1–3+ years hands‐on experience in a microbiology lab (or equivalent academic, internship or co-op experience) performing standard methods (serial dilutions, pour/spread plates, colony counting, culture transfers).
· Technical skills: Proficient aseptic technique; operation of micro lab equipment (autoclave, incubators, membrane filtration, pH meter, balances, biosafety cabinet); accurate documentation.
· Soft skills: Strong attention to detail, ability to follow written procedures, teamwork, communication, and time management in a fast‐paced R&D environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
· Familiarity with similar beverage micro testing/release procedures for R&D consumption products.
· Experience with LIMS or structured data capture platforms in a lab setting (e.g., WinLIMS/LabVantage or equivalent).
Della Infotech Inc is in the staffing business for 10 years. Over the years, we have placed hundreds of candidates to various temp and permanent positions with our 50+ happy clients all over US and Canada including Fortune 500 corporations.