First District Association is a dairy cooperative that manufactures wholesome dairy products from high quality milk supplied from our family farms located in Minnesota. We have an on-site Pathogen Lab that operates 7 days a week. The Microbiology Associate will work Sunday through Thursday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. Responsibilities will include all tasks associated with the pathogen lab from sample receipt to handling, sample integrity maintenance, identity and chain of custody.

Essential Functions:

• Tracking samples after they have been received and accepted for analysis; maintaining the identity and integrity of the sample throughout the testing process
• Organizing samples for specific tests dependent of product code and customer requirements
• Prepare media for various test methods and record quality check information
• Understand testing methods for microbiological organisms such as Salmonella, Listeria sp. and/or Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus, E. coli, Coliforms, Sulfite Reducing Bacteria, Bacillus cereus and Yeast and Mold but not limited to via the accredited methods
• Responsible for proper disposal of hazards such as autoclaving
• Recording results accurately and properly through First District Association reporting system, documenting all stages of testing, from receipt of samples to reporting of results
• Responsible for informing supervisor of presumptive and/or positive results
• Supply inventory management as required for the pathogen lab
• Housekeeping tasks such as cleaning the environment within the lab, cleaning sample containers, washing glass apparatuses and all other duties assigned
• Maintain a clean environment and wear appropriate PPE
• Follow the hand washing procedure to reduce the risk of cross contamination
• Maintain an organized environment to allow no cross contamination from sample receipt to reporting of results
• Must be detailed oriented
• Must participate in pathogen lab proficiency program
• Must participate in proficiency programs to demonstrate competency requirements of education and training
• Must be able to follow with detail all written procedures and data collection tools, sample traceability/chain of custody, equipment maintenance and calibration, validated testing methods, and analysis controls
• Must be willing to successfully participate in the First District Association Quality Department
• Follow all job-related procedures
• Follow all company policies
• Ensure compliance with the International Standard (ISO 17025) by following the laboratory quality manual and ensure continuous improvement
• All other tasks assigned by management

Job Requirements:

• Minimum 4-year degree, or associate degree in biology, microbiology, or relevant science degree or related field; well versed in food microbiology, analytical methods of food sampling, and foodborne pathogens
• Must be able to thoroughly understand the Quality Assurance Management System
• Must be self-motivated, and be able to schedule time to fulfill your responsibilities
• Independently work as the only associate in the lab at times
• Weekend availability is required
• Willingness to work together as a team to complete daily tasks
• Must be able to coordinate multiple tasks at the same time and be goal oriented
• Strong computer skills including quality control applications, word processing, spreadsheets, and databases
• Thorough understanding of general safety requirements
• Thorough understanding of the tested organisms and to maintain a clean surrounding, willing to accept the stringent pathogen lab cGMP’s including no drink, food, personal cellular devices and strict adherence to lab clothing and footwear

Physical Requirements:

• Most tasks are performed while standing.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
• The ability to stoop or crouch to retrieve inventory items and perform cleaning responsibilities in the lab.

First District Association offers a rich benefit and compensation package including medical, dental, disability and life insurance. Participation in 401K with company match and eligibility for annual bonus also included. Candidates must successfully complete a background, drug and fitness for duty tests prior to start. To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to C2@firstdistrict.com. Applications may be completed at our Main Office in lieu of a resume.