Perdue Foods is part of Perdue Farms, a family-owned company heading into its second century of growth and innovation. With a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins, we create products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe, while changing the way animals are raised for food.SummaryWe are recruiting for a Microbiology Laboratory Technician 4 who will provide sample creation, identification, tracking, preparation, receiving and cataloging as well as performing quantitative and qualitative microbiological and chemical test procedures.Regular working hours are Thursday through Sunday from 8:00 am - 6:30 pm, but additional work may be required to help during busy times, projects, vacations, and absences.Principal and Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesPerform microbiological testing on finished product, raw materials and in process samples to meet company and customer requirements and to monitor process control. Testing includes indicator and pathogenic organisms.Perform microbiological testing on environmental samples to monitor sanitation efficacy and to meet company, customer, and regulatory requirements.Perform limited chemical testing on finished product and processing aids to support the needs of the plant.Accurately sort, identify, and log daily samples collected for testing.Accurately interpret, report, and file test results using defined methods.Prepare culture media necessary for completing sample testing and collection. This involves using autoclaves, balances, and other measuring, weighing, and dispensing devices and handling various chemicals and reagents – some of which may require protective gear and safe handling techniques.Perform microbiological, odor, and other testing for shelf-life projects. This includes handling products beyond spoilage dates.Maintain lab sanitation and cleanliness.Maintain and verify equipment accuracy.Keep work area free of safety hazards and work safely.Use a computer to perform tasks such as create/log/identify samples, record and validate data, print paperwork and reports, etc.Minimum EducationAA/AS degree in science or related field. A Bachelor's degree in a science related field may be substituted for experience.Experience Requirements2 - 4 years of relevant experience.Good written and oral communication, science, math, and reading skills.Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products.Experience PreferredEnvironmental Factors and Physical RequirementsPosition is active and requires standing/walking on feet for long periods of time. Must be able to move throughout the facility to collect/move samples, equipment, and supplies. Must be able to observe color changes in reactions and on product samples. Must be able to detect odors using sense of smell. Must be able to bend, twist, reach, grasp, and climb stairs. Reaching, standing, walking, sitting, and grasping varies in repetition, distance, degrees, angle, weight, and height depending upon the task required. Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds and carry 40 pounds for a short distance.Most of the workday will be inside the laboratory where environmental conditions are generally 60-80? and humidity is ambient to 85%. The position also may require entry to the processing plant. When in a plant environment exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating surfaces. May be exposed to temperatures ranging from 0-120?, humidity from 0 – 100%, and noises ranging from 50 to 110 db. When in plant environment all required PPE must be worn as designated by the Company.Position requires exposure and handling of chemicals and reagents used for testing and media preparation as well as handling hot and cold liquids in a variety of containers. May be exposed to all chemicals used in poultry, food, and processing facilities. Must be able to wear and use all protective and safety equipment required for the job as directed by the Company. May be exposed to pathogenic organisms and hazardous chemicals. (SDS sheets available).Perdue Farms, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
