Microbiologist

Sr. QA Auditor/Microbiologist

Location: Waukesha, WI, US, 53186 Employment Type: Hourly Shift: First Work Arrangement: Onsite Position Summary: Conducts microbiological analysis on raw materials and finished products to ensure product integrity Additional responsibility in the areas of chemical and physical analysis of raw ingredients and finished goods, record keeping and trouble shooting sanitation concerns. Ensure that audit records meet or exceed regulatory and customer's requirement. Review and monitor records pertaining to audits, i.e., HACCP, GMPs, Metal Detector, Lot Control etc. Update and review HACCP plans. Support food safety and quality programs to ensure Safe Quality Food (SQF).

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct microbiological analysis on raw ingredients and finished products to determine their compliance with specifications.
• Follow up with the first line action steps as necessary (product hold, vendor contacts, etc.)
• Conduct pre-operations inspections and tests to assess the sanitary state of the processing area.
• Monitor cleaning and sanitation activities of the sanitation crew to assure compliance with established procedures.
• Make and/or execute recommendations based on the analysis for remedial action.
• Maintain knowledge base of new technologies in microbiology.
• Conduct microbiological analysis on finished products and environmental swabs for other locations to determine compliance with Corporate or customer specifications.
• Convey environmental results to VP Quality Assurance in a timely manner.
• Ensure HQ QA Policy compliance to meet audit standards for regulatory customer and internal requirements.
• Maintain readiness for and participate in, as required, at all first, second and third party audits.
• Serve as HACCP Coordinator for the plant, manage HACCP team, conduct annual HACCP team training, recording, reporting and program reviews.
• Ensure COA's and incoming raw materials and packaging meet specifications; in addition to accurate Kosher compliance.
• Perform other duties as assigned by QA Manager.

Education and Experience: Bachelors degree in Microbiology, Food Science or related scientific discipline or equivalent experience. 1 - 5 years experience in a related position.

Knowledge and Skills: Ability to read, write and communicate effectively in English; utilize time in an efficient manner and be able to work with minimal supervision. Basic understanding of microbiological analysis and testing. Basic understanding of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Visio computer-based programs. Understanding of rudimentary Algebraic equations and basic mathematical statistics. Knowledge of laboratory safe practices for handling equipment, chemicals and glassware. Knowledge of laboratory methods and procedures used to perform quantitative analysis of micro-organisms in food, water samples, and environmental specimens. Knowledge of the methods and procedures used to identify pathogenic organisms in water, environmental specimens, and food products. Knowledge of the basic principles of Microbiology. Knowledge of the principles of HACCP.

Why Join Us: Ventura Foods innovates and manufactures food solutions for foodservice and retail businesses. We make exclusive products for the world's most iconic restaurants and retailers, we provide ready-to-go product solutions for professional kitchens, and we make consumer brands everyone knows and loves. When you work for Ventura Foods, you get a strong foundation of training, a manager who cares about you and celebrates your success, a safe environment, and challenging work. As part of our team, your future is limited only by how much you're willing to push yourself to get there. We invest in your growth because you invest in ours. Ventura Foods offers career growth opportunities as well as competitive compensation and benefits:

• Medical, Prescription, Dental, & Vision – coverage beginning on your 1st day for eligible employees
• Profit Sharing and 401(k) matching (after eligible criteria is met)
• Paid Vacation, Sick Time, and Holidays
• Employee Appreciation Events
• and Employee Assistance Programs

Physical Demands: All jobs require sufficient physical strength and dexterity to perform the required task(s) and typically also require at a minimum: intermittent sitting, standing, walking, climbing, squatting, kneeling, pushing, and pulling. Occasional lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds or more with assistance may also be required. Please see the job description for specific requirements.

Work Environment: Please see the job description for specific requirements of the position for which you are applying. Typical shifts are 8-12 hours per day. Additional unscheduled time after hours and on weekends may also be required. Employees must be willing and able to wear personal protective equipment as required by Company policy and/or legal requirements. In addition, certain jobs may require employees to:

• Work outside and/or in adverse temperatures which could include extreme heat, cold, and humidity;
• Be exposed to vibrations, chemicals used in operations, fumes and food allergens (may include soy, dairy and other allergens);
• And be required to work in confined and dark spaces, and at heights in excess of 18 feet.

Diversity & Inclusion: Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive environment in which all employees are treated with respect is evident in our company culture and values. We believe that fostering an environment of inclusion and a focus on diversity across our organization is vital to attracting top talent, driving innovation, and meeting the high expectations of our customers in a rapidly evolving global marketplace Ventura Foods is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nearest Major Market: Waukesha Nearest Secondary Market: Milwaukee