Microbiologist

Kelly Science & Clinical is seeking a Microbiologist near Indianapolis, IN.Direct HireShift: Monday - Friday 7am-3pm Compensation: Starting at $70,000+/year DOE Position Overview:The Microbiologist is responsible for the monitoring and qualitative/quantitative testing of process and product attributes to ensure food safety and quality. This role ensures compliance with all applicable regulations and standards including Safe Quality Foods (SQF), third-party audits, Kosher, and Organic requirements. The Microbiologist interprets testing results for product release, documents findings for non-conforming products, and communicates relevant information to plant management.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Adhere to safety procedures at all timesMaintain Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)Operate daily lab equipment including autoclaves, air samplers, and related instrumentsConduct microbiological testing and documentation of finished products, water, swabs, ingredients, and other materials as neededInterpret test results; retest and report abnormalities; generate standard reportsStandardize equipment before use; ensure reagents and materials are availableAnalyze products for compliance with customer and regulatory guidelinesCommunicate non-conforming product findings to the QA ManagerEnter analytical results into data collection systems promptly; inform supervision of deviationsReview, create, maintain, file, and scan logs and microbiological reportsManage laboratory operations, maintain laboratory equipment, and order suppliesRelease products meeting microbiological specificationsConduct work processes using chemicals; evaluate physical properties of ingredients and productsTrain Analytical Technician and QA Lead on microbiological sampling processesProvide microbiological expertise to management as neededCreate Certificates of Analysis (COA) and submit results to customersPerform other duties as assigned by managementMaintain a positive work atmosphere with customers, coworkers, and managementRegular and punctual attendance requiredWork scheduled shifts, weekends, and extended hours as neededExperience for Success:Prior laboratory experience in a plant setting requiredHigh accuracy and precision in testing proceduresStrong oral and written communication skillsAbility to read, write, and interpret documents such as procedure manualsCapable of understanding and following technical instructionsEffective presentation skills for one-on-one and small group settingsFluent in English; Spanish is a plusStrong organizational, prioritization, and decision-making skillsAbility to calculate figures such as proportions, percentages, averages, and ratiosStrong computer skillsEducation and Experience:Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology, Biology, or Food Science requiredExperience establishing and building a microbiology lab from ground up. Experience with basic micro testing such as APC and yeast and mold count. At least one year of experience in a food or beverage production environment preferredMS Office (Word and Excel) proficiency requiredBehaviors & Competencies:Promotes mental, spiritual, and physical safetySeeks and provides constructive feedbackHolds self and others accountableCollaborative and supportive of team membersEngages in self-development and encourages peers’ developmentDemonstrates flexibility and growth mindsetPhysical Demands:Regularly required to talk or hearFrequently required to sit, use hands, reach with hands and armsFrequently required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or squatMust regularly lift, pull, and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift, pull, and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift, pull, and/or move up to 50 poundsSpecific vision abilities required include close vision and the ability to adjust focusReasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functionsThis job description provides a comprehensive overview of the responsibilities, qualifications, and physical requirements for the Microbiologist position.