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 and the Microbiology Associate will be responsible  for 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 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 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, maintain a clean surrounding, willing to accept the stringent pathogen lab cGMP’s including no drink, food, personal cellular devices, and a strict adherence to lab clothing and footwear
• Detailed oriented

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 or by filling online below in lieu of a resume.

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