FSQ Microbiology Specialist

About the Role

We have a current opening for a FSQ Microbiology Specialist and are actively reviewing applications.

Ferrero is the fastest growing confectionery company in the world! Come and be a part of a winning team.

The FSQ Microbiology Specialist provides process and/or technical leadership for laboratory operations, including routine, non-routine, project-based, and quality assurance activities, in alignment with Group, regulatory, and industry food safety and quality requirements. This responsibility includes leading laboratory quality programs to ensure timely, accurate analytical results in accordance with ISO 17025 standards, good laboratory practices. The role oversees all laboratory operations from sample receiving to results reporting ensuring integrity of data, impartial result reporting, and ensuring effective interface with quality production, purchasing, and central quality functions.

Monday-Friday 7:00a-5:30p. Weekend Rotation and Holiday Coverage as needed.

• Create schedule and assign daily duties for Micro Lab Analysts
• Lead training, onboarding, qualification, and authorization of laboratory personnel. Support performance feedback and professional development through coaching, knowledge transfer, and technical guidance.
• Manage consumable inventory system
• Manage and facilitate Preventative Maintenance and Calibration Programs
• Implementation of new processes, verifications, and validation of effectiveness
• Manage daily compliance of ISO 17025 standards
• Method development and implementation – conduct studies, work with third party vendors
• Coordinate audit activities for Micro Lab (pre-audit, during audit, and post audit)
• Facilitate proficiency testing
• Ensure all microbiological methods meet compliance requirements
• Responsible for Good Laboratory Practices, including equipment monitoring and calibration as well as media preparation and biohazard disposal
• Evaluate, develop, implement, and maintain microbiological testing procedures and programs; secure all appropriate documentation and/or follow-up as required; maintain internal control protocols by record keeping, troubleshooting, and escalation of known issues
• Perform microbiological testing in the laboratory and work to develop new microbiological assays for in-house testing
• Interpret microbiological data generated both internally and by third party testing facilities; report data and trends and initiate appropriate follow-up actions
• Troubleshoot all testing/sampling abnormalities to ensure proper results are reported; initiate proper guidelines for corrective/preventative action immediately
• Investigate product holds for microbiological reasons and make recommendations for appropriate actions based on scientific findings and/or company
• Perform daily plant/lab inspections and manage the facilities environmental testing program; analyze results to ensure a microbiologically sound environment for production
• Lead or support root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective and preventive action (CAPA) activities related to laboratory deviations, non-conformances, proficiency testing outcomes, or external laboratory performance.

• BS/BA in Microbiology or equivalent area of study, with 3-5 years of experience in a food laboratory environment or equivalent of 5+ years’ experience in a laboratory environment within food manufacturing
• Advanced knowledge of microbiological lab procedures
• Advanced knowledge and experience in PCR technique and PCR Interpretation required
• Strong technical skills in interpretation of analytical results, equipment, and troubleshooting
• Knowledgeable in Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
• Experience with managing compliance with ISO 17025 Laboratory Standard
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and HACCP

The base salary range for this position is $70,000- $80,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors permitted by law. In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other benefits.

Ferrero is an equal…