Research Associate

Certified 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. Certified 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. JOB SUMMARY The Research Associate conducts testing procedures for project‑based studies, such as shelf‑life studies, inoculated challenge studies, process validation studies, etc., as described in client proposal agreements. In addition, the Research Associate supports the work of other contract research laboratory personnel. The Research Associate also has elevated responsibility with regard to performing laboratory work that requires a higher level of technical expertise, including being a resource for operation of specialized instrumentation and for performing methods that are technically challenging. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES Conducts all testing procedures in accordance with standard operating procedure and quality guidelines. Accurately generates and transcribes pertinent data. Interacts well with and serves as a training and troubleshooting resource to other department members. Manages time and resources of their work and assists others in maximizing overall operational efficiency. Can be relied upon to accurately execute scheduled tasks and assignments independently. Proactively seeks ways to improve processes and better utilize departmental resources. Acts as a resource for operation of specialized instrumentation and for obtaining thorough training on such instrumentation from the manufacturer. Execute all pertinent scheduled preparation and testing procedures as described in project proposals. Maintain meticulous records of procedures performed related to contract research studies. Demonstrate proficiency in all testing procedures as assigned, including recording and maintaining accurate and timely results based on the analyses performed. Learn new techniques and technologies as needed to complete project assignments. Identify and communicate anomalous results and/or incongruent data sets with Department Manager/Supervisor. Perform appropriate quality control tasks pertinent to the department including proper documentation and record keeping, in compliance with accreditation bodies. Perform maintenance of laboratory equipment and instruments, including inspection, calibration, cleaning & sanitization, as directed. Participate in special projects as assigned by the Department Manager/Supervisor MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS B.S., preferably in Biology/Microbiology, and appropriate industry specific experience. 2‑5 years relevant laboratory experience or food production/testing environment experience. Good conceptual basis in microbiology with proven ability to perform basic and advanced microbiology and molecular techniques. Competence with effectively delivering and receiving oral or written communication. Familiarity with FDA BAM, USDA MLG, CMMEF, APHA, and AOAC methodology. Basic computer skills required. Experience with Microsoft Office Suite applications, proficient with MS Excel. LIMS experience preferable. Ability to distinguish colors, preferred. Ability to stand for prolonged periods PHYSICAL DEMANDS Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse and to handle other communications/computer components Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogens Noise level varies from quiet to loud Temperature varies from hot to cold Color vision and depth perception Interactive and fast-paced team oriented tasks Overnight Travel may be required at the discretion of management Regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm COMPENSATION $21 - $23 USD We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr