Job Title: Global R&D Microbiological Sciences Technician
Location: Valhalla, New York 10595
Duration: 06+ Months Contract/Possibility of extension
Monday-Friday, 8AM-5PM EST
Pay Rate : $28/hr
Responsibilities:
Work location: Valhalla R&D Technical Center (Onsite)
Team: Global R&D Microbiological Sciences (FSQA)
Reports to: Valhalla Micro Lab Manager / designated Microbiologist
Role Summary:
The R&D Microbiology Lab Technician supports daily testing and lab operations for Valhalla Microbiology team. This role performs routine microbiological tests on beverages and ingredients, prepares basic lab materials, follows Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and helps run small studies under the direction of the Microbiology team. Accurate sample handling, testing, documentation, and communication are essential.
Key Responsibilities:
- 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.
- Culture collection: Maintain and update the laboratory culture collection per department practices.
- Media & reagent preparation: Prepare high‑quality culture media, buffers, and reagents; perform sterility checks; maintain lot and expiration records.
- Result reporting: Record, verify, and route test outcomes; notify stakeholders of releases or out‑of‑spec findings in line with Valhalla release procedures.
- Quality system & GLP: Follow SOPs, data integrity, and traceability practices; support QC programs and proficiency activities; uphold safety and GLP standards.
- Digital/lab systems: Use SharePoint/DM templates and LIMS/recording tools for sample tracking and data entry (as applicable to Valhalla).
Minimum Qualifications:
- Education: B.S. in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or related discipline with microbiology coursework/labs.
- Experience: 1+ years hands‑on experience in a microbiology lab (or equivalent academic, internship or co-op experience)
- Soft skills: Strong attention to detail, ability to follow written procedures, teamwork, communication, and time management.
Tools & Equipment (Valhalla Lab)
- Role involves routine use of autoclave (bench/stand‑alone), incubators (walk‑in/benchtop), membrane filtration units, biosafety cabinet/laminar flow hood, refrigerators/freezers, waterbaths, colony counters, microscopes, pH meters, balances, UV lamp; plus standard PPE and lab supplies per Valhalla SOPs.
- Compliance, Health & Safety
- Adhere to site EHS policies, micro lab safety manuals, and GLP standards; complete required safety modules and maintain LQS logs (temperature recording, cleaning schedules).
- Follow R&D micro release requirements and documentation practices when products are intended for consumption by non‑R&D person
