Microbiology Technician

Job Summary The Microbiology Technician supports product safety, quality, and regulatory compliance by performing routine microbiological testing, environmental monitoring, and sanitation verification in a beverage manufacturing facility. This role is hands‑on and laboratory‑focused, with regular interaction on the production floor to support sampling, sanitation programs, and food safety initiatives. Job Responsibilities Microbiological Sampling and Testing: Perform microbiological plating and analysis of raw materials, in‑process, finished product, water, and environmental samples. Prepare media, reagents, and supplies according to standard operating procedures (SOPs). Incubate, read, interpret, and record microbiological results accurately and timely. Identify and elevate out‑of‑specification or abnormal results. Environmental Monitoring Program (EMP): Execute the facility Environmental Monitoring Program. Track EMP results, trend data, and report findings to Quality and Sanitation teams. Support corrective actions and verification activities related to EMP findings. Sanitation & Food Safety Support: Verify sanitation effectiveness through microbiological testing and ATP results (if applicable). Partner with Quality and Operations teams to investigate and resolve microbiological issues. Support pre‑operational inspections and sanitation validations. Assist with root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives. Documentation & Compliance: Maintain accurate, complete, and compliant laboratory records. Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), good laboratory practices (GLPs), and food safety policies. Support audits, inspections, and regulatory requirements as needed. Job Requirements Associate or bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, Chemistry, or a related field required. 2–3+ years prior experience in a food or beverage manufacturing microbiology lab preferred. Familiarity with food safety programs (HACCP, GMPs, EMP) is a plus. Knowledge of basic microbiological techniques and aseptic practices. Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures. Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks. Comfortable working in both laboratory and manufacturing environments. Proficient in basic computer applications and data entry. Physical Requirements Acute Vision: Constantly (observing both near and far, reading documents) Speaking: Constantly (investigates, negotiates, recommends, reports, etc.) Typing/texting: Frequently using a keyboard/phone for day-to-day business (email, reports) Mobility: Occasional travel throughout the plant and office environment. Lifting: Occasionally lift 15 pounds or less (laptop, tablet, handheld devices) Benefits and Other Information We offer a competitive benefits package to full-time employees including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, 401(k), paid time off, wellness programs, and tuition reimbursement. Part-time employees are eligible for paid time off, 401(k), and tuition reimbursement. Pre‑employment background check is required. Heartland Coca-Cola is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE), and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and any other class protected by law. Veteran friendly. Requisition ID: 255129 Company: Heartland Coca-Cola Bottling Company, LLC #J-18808-Ljbffr