Operations Lead Microbiology

As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 27 countries, we offer to our customers a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods. External growth has been a key pillar of our history with more than 40 acquisitions completed in the last 10 years.

If you want to contribute to an inspiring long-term purpose, to be part of a fast growing company on a high-value market with significant build-up opportunities, and to grow in an entrepreneurial and warm environment,
join us!

We are looking for a Operations Lead Microbiology in 2835 N Oak Grove Ave, Springfield, MO  USA. Your mission will be to:

This position is responsible for working with department leadership to provide consistent efficient operations throughout the department.

• Prepare, analyze, perform, and assist others with the microbiological preparation and testing of food samples.
• Ensure all department opening and closing tasks are completed effectively and efficiently and documented as quality systems require.
• Distribute projects or assignments to appropriate personnel within the department to ensure processes are efficiently and effectively completed.
• Ensure sample analysis flow if efficient in conjunction with quality.
• Ensure safe working environment for laboratory and provide supervision of quality control and quality assurance procedures.
• Assist with scheduling and adjusting staff as needed based on sample volume ensuring minimal delays or down time in processes.
• Support laboratory leadership in employee development by providing effective training to new employees and acting as a resource to all department employees in the resolution of questions, problems, or alternative resources.
• Help implement systems as guided by laboratory leadership and support lean process or Industrial Performance related activities either directed from Corporate or in Lab-Specific Projects.
• Communicate with other departments as well as management on department needs.
• Ensure client specific requirements are being met.
• Assist with selection and orientation of new hires.
• Work with supervisor on identifying and correcting performance issues and recognizing outstanding performers.
• Ensure effective utilization of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) – as it pertains to batching, reports traceability, etc.
• Support corporate quality and continuous improvement process.
• Perform other related tasks as needed.

Internal Interlocutors:
Regular contact with laboratory management is necessary to answer procedural questions. Regular contact with client service personnel is needed to obtain information about client specifications.

External Interlocutors:
Minimal contact with clients.

The incumbent must have a basic knowledge of microbiology to accurately perform testing procedures and obtain accurate results.

Associates degree or equivalent work experience required, Bachelors preferred. 2-5 years relevant work experience. The incumbent must have a general knowledge of food science to accurately perform testing procedures and obtain accurate results. A broad knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and policies is necessary to ensure a safe working environment. Maintain knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that is required to complete job responsibilities.

A general level of data entry skills is needed to calculate and record analysis results.

Analytical skills are helpful to complete analysis procedures. Physical dexterity with pipetting is required to transfer sample into plates and tubes. Laboratory skills obtained as a laboratory technician or similar position are essential to perform the necessary analyses. Oral and written communication skills are necessary to supervise departmental personnel.

The incumbent works in a laboratory setting with proper lighting and temperature control. Occasional exposure to laboratory fumes, chemicals, and materials will occur when in the laboratory. Safety equipment of gloves, laboratory coat and eyeglasses may need to be worn depending on the testing process. The incumbent may use the autoclave daily to complete the analysis process. Continuous lifting of analysis materials weighing up to 50 pounds are necessary to transport media materials.

The incumbent can expect extended time spent in a standing position. The incumbent should be able to detect slight variation in shades of colors.

Compensation Range $24 - $26 / hourly USD

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

Generous paid time off (PTO) package to support work-life balance following state and local ordinances.

Optional 401(k) plan with employer matching…