Microbiologist 2

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionCertified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific solutions and expertise – So The World Can Trust In What It Consumes™. Our network of 30+ North American and European laboratories serves the food & beverage, dietary supplements, cosmetics, OTC, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, and hemp industries.Our BrandsCertified Group is comprised of a set of specialized brands that collectively deliver laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly regulated industries:Certified Laboratories – Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily supporting food, beverage, cosmetics, OTC, and dietary supplement industries.Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) – A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food industry.Labstat – A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next-generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology.EAS Consulting Group – A regulatory consulting firm offering expert guidance, training, and auditing support across FDA, USDA, and other regulated sectors, powered by a large network of independent advisors.FSNS Certification & Audit – Provides accredited third-party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs.Certified Group is committed to delivering expert solutions and quality testing our customers can feel confident in – on time, every time – so the world can trust in what it consumes. As a leading North American provider of laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services, Certified Group includes Food Safety Net Services (FSNS), FSNS Certification & Audit, Certified Laboratories, EAS Consulting Group, and Labstat International Inc.

Certified Group provides analytical testing and regulatory guidance services in the food & beverage, dietary supplements & NHP, cosmetics, OTC, personal care, tobacco, nicotine, cannabis, and hemp industries. We have embarked on an important journey to unify and strengthen our culture by living these core values: Start with the Customer, Drive to Deliver, Commit to Safety and Quality, and Believe in the Team — including believing in you.We are currently looking for a Microbiologist to join our growing team!JOB SUMMARYThe function of this job is to perform advanced analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmentals. The position consistently exercises independent judgment and discretion in performing the application and evaluation of approved microbiological techniques and methodologies used in analytical testing, and the interpretation of test results. This role has training and supervisory responsibilities as needed.ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES Accurately perform and read test results and notify Laboratory Management of deviationsPrepare and analyze samples for indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemistries Apply aseptic/microbiological techniques in daily workload Apply independent judgement in the interpretation of qualitative test results Conduct additional testing as needed based upon independent review of test resultsAccurately perform final determination of special micros and complete final results dispositionCommunicate results including pathogenic confirmations and maintain a positive relationship with clientsReport inventory and expendable supplies/materials needed for testing requirementsProvide routine preventive maintenance by daily cleaning, sanitizing, trash disposal, and equipment quality controlAssist in quality control duties to by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, running media controls, etc.Assist with training and research assignments including troubleshooting Independently pursue an assigned series of processes, procedures, or techniques in accordance with FSNS policies/procedures and customer requirementsAssisting in developing and revising Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)Maintain a high degree of technical competence by reading scientific journals, attending professional workshops, and being aware of food industry issues and trendsPerform all activities in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient mannerShare information in an open and timely mannerAssist with managing priorities and schedule Responsible for the safety of oneself and others working within their areaResponsible for the completion of required trainingTravel is required and at the discretion of managementOTHER DUTIES Perform other duties as assignedAs needed from time to time, assist in performing Login Technician, Media Technician, and/or Micro Technician.

If assigned, conduct responsibilities of Branch Safety Coordinator outlined in the corporate safety manual and report to the Corporate Safety Officer for assigned duties SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIESThis job has no regularly assigned supervisory responsibilities, although the position is expected to train others, and step in to perform supervisory responsibilities when the Sr. Microbiologist, Lead or the Supervisor is not available. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSBachelor's degree in Life Science or related field, microbiology preferred Two or more years of experience in a commercial food-testing or analytical laboratory Or equivalent combination of education and experienceWorking knowledge of aseptic sampling technique, automated lab equipment, and acceptable methods and proceduresFamiliar with GLP, OSHA guidelines, FDA, BAM, APHA, ISO, and USP methods and proceduresBroad knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures of a food testing laboratory Ability to travel when necessaryKNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIESTo perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following:Computer - Proficient in standard business office software, LIMS, and internet search tools.Customer Service - Responds promptly to customer needs; Responds to requests for service and assistance; Meets commitments.Verbal & Written Communication; Language Skills - Clarity of speech, remaining calm and focused, being polite and making effective presentations to diverse groups.

Edits work for correct data, spelling, and grammar. Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Mathematical Skills - Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals; Ability to perform financial calculations, compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.Analytical, Problem Solving, & Organizational Skills - Gathers and analyzes information skillfully and can efficiently execute on plans/ideas.

Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations. Interprets data and test results.Independent Judgement and Discretion - Proficient and confident in exercising independent judgement and discretion on a consistent basis throughout the day in performing the testing, analytical and interpretive responsibilities of the position. PHYSICAL DEMANDSThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

FSNS complies with its reasonable accommodation obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act and state law. Regularly required to stand, sit, walk, use hands and arms, talk and hearLift up to 25 poundsColor vision and depth perception WORK ENVIRONMENTThe work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogensNoise level varies from quiet to loudTemperature varies from hot to coldInteractive and fast-paced team oriented tasks Safety:Required to wear appropriate protective clothingRequired to use appropriate protective equipmentResponsible for the safety of oneself and others working within their areaPROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTSEmployees in this role will be evaluated after 90 calendar days from date of hire and annually thereafter based on the following proficiencies: In addition to the responsibilities of this position, maintain competency in duties performed by technicians in other departments (Log-In, Media, Main) to provide assistance when neededExercise of sound independent judgment and discretion Knowledge of all qualitative, quantitative testing, and confirmations performedResource for all technicians in Main LabProficient in the passing and first approval process and may complete second approvalsExcellent aseptic technique and use of the biological hoodUnderstand client specificationsAbility to assume the responsibilities and make decisions of the Sr.

Microbiologist, Lead, or Supervisor, when they are not availableEnsure daily, weekly, and monthly sanitation and QC are completeHelp resolve technical issues with machinesProficiency in testing for all path lab analyses on A2LA Scope (<2 Z-Score)Versed in GLP, FDA, USDA, AOAC, and other method reference sourcesManage workload and ensure TAT is met by delegation of work to self and othersAssist Technical Manager, as neededAll Certified Group employees must be proficient in the following:Ability to multitask and quickly move from one task to the nextAbility to complete tasks with accuracyGeneral knowledge of all FSNS safety protocols & general OSHA laboratory safety guidelines Working knowledge of ISO 17025 Quality procedures general to their primary job and area of responsibilityAbility to perform laboratory opening and closing procedures Benefits:Progressive 401k Retirement Savings PlanEmployer Paid Short- Term and Long-Term Disability, and Life InsuranceGroup MedicalTuition ReimbursementFlexible Spending AccountsDentalPaid Holidays and Time OffMany positions which qualify for the company bonus programCertified Group values diversity in its workforce. The company is firmly committed to a policy of Equal Opportunity and will administer its policies in a manner that treats each employee and applicant for employment on the basis of merit. Certified Group will take affirmative action to seek out qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, handicap, or veteran status.Schedule: Sunday - Thursday, 10:30AM - 7:00PMThe compensation details provided below reflect the expected pay range for this role, based on the selected compensation structure and applicable guidelines.

Actual pay within this range may vary depending on factors such as experience, skills, qualifications, and geographic location. Additional components of total rewards—such as bonuses, benefits, or incentives—may also apply where applicable.Salary Range for Pay Transparency$20—$25 USDBy applying, you acknowledge that Certified Group will process your personal information for recruitment and hiring purposes in accordance with our Applicant Privacy Policy. California residents may review additional information about how we collect and use personal information, including retention and rights, in our California Notice at Collection.

To view our Privacy Policy, click the link here: Certified Group Privacy PolicyWe are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.