Food Microbiology Lab Assistant

SummaryResponsible for providing laboratory support per requests of microbiologists in compliance with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 specifications. Responsible for performing laboratory media prep, dishwashing, cleaning, sample storage, and waste removal. Records results of QA/QC checks. Limited and specific sample analysis may be performed under the supervision of lab coordinator or laboratory lead. Driving to pick up local (Portland metro area) samples (IRS mileage rate will be paid).Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesPerforms laboratory support tasks, including but not limited to, media prep, dishwashing, cleaning, sample prep, sample storage, sterilizing waste, etc.Performs laboratory QA/QC checks, including but not limited to instrument and test calibration, sterility checks, balance checks, etc.Communicates clearly and directly with microbiologists concerning any/all aspects of laboratory support tasks, including scheduling and completion of tasks, laboratory accidents, abnormal or unusual results, etc.Drives to customer manufacturing facilities to pick up samples to bring back to the lab.Is willing to work overtime, weekends and holidays.QUALIFICATIONSTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCEOne or more years related experience and/or training.LANGUAGE SKILLSAbility to read, analyze, and interpret general microbiology laboratory technical procedures. Ability to understand and follow instructions from microbiologists or other lab or company personnel.MATHEMATICAL SKILLSAbility to calculate figures using basic arithmetic skills such as adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing. Ability to understand averaging, rounding, standard deviation, fractions, ratios, unit conversions, and percentages, and to apply these to both technical and practical situations.REASONING ABILITY Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. Ability to determine correct course of action regarding laboratory support services.CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, AND REGISTRATIONSMaintains a valid Drivers License and reliable transportation.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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, or sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee must often lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.