R&D Technician; R&D Microbiology Lab Technician

We are looking for a detail-oriented and motivated R&D Technician to join our Microbiology Lab team in Valhalla, United States. The ideal candidate will have a foundational understanding of microbiology techniques and laboratory practices, as well as a passion for research and development.

• 🔬 Sample handling & testing:
  Receive, log, label, and process R&D and pilot‑plant samples; execute routine tests (e.g., APC, coliforms, yeast & mold), swabs/rinse waters, per defined Valhalla methods and micro sampling plans; document results with precision.
• 📊 Media & reagent preparation:
  Prepare high‑quality culture media, buffers, and reagents; perform sterility checks; maintain lot and expiration records.
• 🧪 Support studies:
  Assist Microbiologists during microbiological challenge/qualification studies (inoculation, monitoring, data capture); ensure aseptic technique and adherence to protocols.
• 🤝 Result reporting:
  Record, verify, and route test outcomes; notify stakeholders of releases or out‑of‑spec findings in line with Valhalla release procedures.
• 📅 Lab operations:
  Maintain inventory, order supplies/consumables; perform equipment checks and cleaning (incubators, water baths, refrigerators/freezers) and complete LQS logs/SOPs.
• 🌱 Quality system & GLP:
  Follow SOPs, data integrity and traceability practices; support QC programs and proficiency activities; uphold safety and GLP standards.
• 📊 Culture collection:
  Maintain and update the laboratory culture collection per department practices.
• 🔬 Digital/lab systems:
  Use SharePoint/DM templates and LIMS/recording tools for sample tracking and data entry (as applicable to Valhalla).

• ✅
  
  Education:
  
  B.S. in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or related discipline with microbiology coursework/labs.
• ✅
  
  Experience:
  
  1–3+ years hands‑on experience in a microbiology lab (or equivalent academic, internship or co‑op experience) performing standard methods (serial dilutions, pour/spread plates, colony counting, culture transfers).
• ✅ Technical skills:
  Proficient aseptic technique; operation of micro lab equipment (autoclave, incubators, membrane filtration, pH meter, balances, biosafety cabinet); accurate documentation.
• ✅
  
  Soft skills:
  
  Strong attention to detail, ability to follow written procedures, teamwork, communication, and time management in a fast‑paced R&D environment.

• ✅ Familiarity with Pepsi Co or similar beverage micro testing/release procedures for R&D consumption products.
• ✅ Experience with LIMS or structured data capture platforms in a lab setting (e.g., WinLIMS/Lab Vantage or equivalent

Ready to make an impact? 🚀 Apply now and let's grow together!