Quality Specialist

Quality Specialist

Foods you love. Brands you trust. And a career that empowers you to grow. At Nestlé USA, we're all working towards the same goal – to delight and deliver for our consumers. With a rich portfolio of beloved brands, including DiGiorno, Toll House, and Coffee mate, in 97% of U.S. households, we have a unique opportunity – and responsibility – to be there for every moment in our consumers' lives. Joining Nestlé means becoming part of an inclusive workplace that inspires innovation, encourages strategic thinking and creativity, and celebrates your achievements. No matter where you work within the organization, you are empowered to challenge the status quo, embrace risk-taking, and pioneer new ideas. Our supportive and collaborative environment encourages bold ambitions and continuous learning so that everyone can grow and thrive.

This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship. The Microbiology Quality Specialist is responsible for performing a wide range of microbiological analyses that support product release, environmental monitoring, and overall food safety compliance. This role focuses on executing routine and advanced microbiological testing— including pH, streak plating, APC petrifilm enumeration, and microbial luminescence assays—to verify that products and processes meet established quality and regulatory standards. The specialist will analyze, interpret, and document microbiological data while following strict aseptic and biosafety practices. In this position, the specialist collaborates closely with the Quality and Production teams to identify, escalate, and help prevent microbiological risks throughout the facility.

Work Schedule: This position will require working on a Monday - Friday shift schedule. The shift occurs from 2pm-1030pm.

Primary Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological testing on finished products, raw materials, and environmental samples, including pH measurements, streak plating, APC petrifilm, and microbial luminescence assays.
• Apply aseptic technique consistently to prevent sample contamination and ensure data integrity.
• Follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), food safety programs, and site Quality Policy requirements.
• Monitor and verify critical microbiological controls, escalating any food safety or quality concerns to management in a timely manner.
• Maintain high standards of laboratory hygiene, housekeeping, and biosafety practices.
• Support compliance with FSSC 22000, ISO 9001, and internal microbiological standards, while contributing to continuous improvement of quality metrics/KPIs.
• Conduct routine environmental monitoring (air, surface, and equipment) and trend microbiological data to identify potential risks or deviations.
• Record, analyze, and interpret microbial data; prepare summaries and reports in alignment with the Quality Monitoring Scheme (QMS).
• Assist with method monitoring, verification, and troubleshooting of microbiological test systems.
• Review and update microbiology-related SOPs and documentation in compliance with Nestlé standards; may support document control activities.
• Provide training and coaching to technicians and production operators on sampling, hygiene expectations, and microbiological awareness.
• Participate in special projects, investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives related to microbiological quality or environmental hygiene.
• Work flexible hours based on operational needs, including weekends or holidays if required.

Requirements & Minimum Education Level

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or a related life science is preferred. Strong knowledge of microbiological principles, aseptic technique, and biosafety practices. Familiarity with microbiological test methods, environmental monitoring, and quality system requirements. Experience 1–3 years experience in a microbiology laboratory, food manufacturing environment, or relevant industry preferred. Experience with data interpretation, aseptic practices, and routine microbiological bench work strongly beneficial.

Skills: Excellent attention to detail with precise and organized work habits. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to handle multiple assignments in a fast‑paced, high‑volume laboratory. Good mathematical and statistical skills; capable of analyzing microbiological trends. Proficiency with laboratory information systems, Microsoft Office, and data management tools. Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with cross‑functional teams.

It is our business imperative to remain a very inclusive workplace. To our veterans and separated service members, you're at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestlé. The skills you've gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role. In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities. Nestlé seeks such skilled and qualified individuals to share our mission where you'll join a cohort of others who have chosen to call Nestlé home. The Nestlé Companies are equal employment opportunity employers. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you may require any special accommodations in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Contact us at View email address on click.appcast.io or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator: View phone number on click.appcast.io. This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship. Review our applicant privacy notice before applying at Job Requisition: 401412