Food Microbiologist

The Food Microbiologist is responsible for supervising and performing microbiological testing, whilst leading training and improvement of factory hygiene / cleaning standards.

Responsibilities:

• Supervise a team of microbiology technicians ensuring all testing is carried out according to procedures and timescales
• Microbiological testing on raw materials, in-process materials and finished products
• Train and develop microbiology technicians to ensure testing is completed to the required standards
• Ensure all equipment is calibrated and services in accordance with procedures
• Routine reporting ensuring standards and accuracy are maintained
• Maintain the stock levels of testing equipment/reagents in accordance with analysis requirements within budget
• Ensure risk assessments and safe systems of work for the microbiology laboratory are in place, implemented and up to date
• Ensure all procedures relating to factory hygiene are understood and implemented by operators, organising training where required
• Ensure cleaning and disinfection procedures are defined, validated, up to date and implemented
• Carry out GMP audits
• Update and review of HACCP plans when required

Generally successful candidates for food microbiology positions will be of graduate calibre within Microbiology with previous experience of working within a food testing microbiology laboratory desired. They will have a proven track record of managing a team and will be able to hit the ground running. They will have food hygiene training and will have HACCP level 2 or above.