Production Microbiologist

Overview:

At Locus, we are seeking Production Microbiologist, an entry-level professional  who will be responsible for bringing technical expertise to the production process. The Production Microbiologist spend 20% of their time in a lab setting conducting various microbiology lab procedures and 80% of their time on the production floor performing tasks related to the downstream production process.

Key responsibilities for upstream production (20%):

• Prepare upstream materials for both bacterial and fungal fermentation production.
• Utilize aseptic techniques at all times when handling production cultures.
• Prepare solid substrate fermentation materials.
• Collect and turnover culture samples to quality control for testing.
• Actively participate in production meetings by voicing concerns, recommendations for process improvements and providing production updates. 
• Maintain accurate batch records and other documentation as required.
• Utilize good laboratory practices and perform lab procedures in accordance with the SOPs

 Key responsibilities for downstream production (80%):

• Prepare reactors for fermentation including the loading raw materials, setting parameters, testing equipment functionality, and inoculation of culture.
• Operate PLC to gather data and set temperature, pH, and other parameters.
• Prepare scheduled samples for testing and analysis by quality control.
• Clean and sterilize equipment, reactors, and all parts utilized in production.
• Maintain warehouse area and ensure high level of cleanliness and organization of materials.
• Perform routine maintenance on reactors, tanks, pumps, and other production equipment.
• Wear required PPE while carrying out position responsibilities.
• Follow SOP’s and protocols to maintain product quality.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.  

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology or related scientific field. 
• Entry level experience in a laboratory setting.  
• Preferred: Familiarly with microbiology techniques.       

Compensation: $24.50 per hour

 Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to move through the warehouse 60% of the time and remain in a stationary position 40% of the time.  The employee is required to consistently position self as appropriate to operate and maintain equipment in the warehouse and progress production cycles. The employee will occasionally lift and or carry up to 50 lbs.  Employee will occasionally use computer, phone, copier and other office equipment in the course of a day. 

 Work Environment: Work is performed in a temperature-controlled warehouse environment.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time.  This may include warm, hot or cold temperatures.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.