Microbiologist Technician - job 1 of 2

From tree to table, POM Wonderful delivers a whole lot of healthy. Known for our iconic double-bubble bottle, we grow, harvest, package, and market fresh pomegranates, pomegranate arils, and a selection of delicious pomegranate-blended juices and teas. With over 9,000 acres in California's Central Valley, POM Wonderful is committed to unleashing the antioxidant power of our handpicked pomegranates. 

The Microbiology Technician is responsible for performing routine microbiological testing to ensure product quality and safety in a manufacturing environment. The Microbiologist Technician will assist in sample collection and testing for Environmental and Water Monitoring Programs, and specific projects. Conduct daily in-house micro-testing for finished goods. Coordinate and follow up on all outside laboratory testing programs. Support the microbiologist with all other microbiology testing needs.

Environmental and Water Monitoring Programs: Assists with the Environmental and Water Monitoring Program prepares samples for 3rd party laboratory testing and performs in-house testing as needed.

On-Site Micro Testing: Assist in daily micro testing for finished goods and/or raw ingredients, to identify the microbial contaminants in samples and ensure that the product is in compliance.

Harvest Lot Testing: Prepare samples from raw materials, production intermediates, and final products for microbiological analysis. Assists in collecting samples and preparing them for 3rd party laboratory testing.

Data Entry and Recordkeeping: Logs all testing results in the designated location and communicates results to the department management. Assists in maintaining testing records, including food safety, ingredients, and special project results.

Technical Assistance: Assists in providing technical assistance to the Quality Assurance and Operations team, and aids in achieving product quality and food safety by assisting in the development of microbiological and chemical capabilities.

Continuous Improvement:  Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and suggest improvements for lab processes or testing methods.

• Familiarity with state-specific food safety laws and the biology of micro-organisms.
• Assists in the preparation of technical reports and providing recommendations based on research outcomes.
• Ability to see the plan with business perspectives and work hands-on to complete given tasks.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to provide guidance and assistance to all levels of employees with professional communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills, ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines consistently, and perform efficiently and effectively in a fast-paced deadline-oriented environment.
• Ability to be flexible and adaptable to scheduling and environments.
• Demonstrate problem-solving and conflict-management skills.
• Ability to perform analysis and communicate results effectively.
• Computer-literate, intermediate skills in Microsoft Office Suite.

Education & Experience:

A Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology, Food Science, or any other applicable science discipline is ideal. 1-3 years of microbiology experience in a manufacturing, laboratory, or similar setting preferred.

Compensation Range: $24.00 - $30.00

• Competitive benefits package including Medical (including 24/7 online access to a physician), Vision, Dental and 401k with match eligibility
• Access to a fully equipped On-site Gym
• On-site subsidized Cafe
• Opportunities for development and internal mobility
• Manager and leadership training, biweekly L&OD webinars, and eLearning offerings
• Companywide problem solving and continuous improvement training
• Wonderful Giving (wonderfulgiving.com) - allowing you to donate company money to a cause of your choice
• Company focus on wellness and health including virtual yoga and mindful meditation classes

POM Wonderful is the largest grower and producer of fresh pomegranates and pomegranate juice in the United States as well as the worldwide leader in fresh California pomegranates and pomegranate-based products, including our 100% pomegranate juices, healthy juice blends and teas. With nearly two million pomegranate trees in Central California, we grow, handpick and juice our own pomegranates to ensure the highest quality. Sold throughout the world and in the vast majority of North American retailers, our selection of products includes pomegranate-based juices and teas, fresh fruit when in season, and fresh arils.

POM Wonderful is part of The Wonderful Company, a successful, fast-growing privately held $6 billion company with 10,000 employees worldwide. The Wonderful Company’s connection to consumers has health at its heart and giving back in its DNA. The company has a long-standing commitment to corporate social responsibility, including more than $1 billion invested in environmental sustainability; $65 million in charitable giving, education initiatives, and innovative health and wellness programs each year; and $143 million toward the construction of two charter school campuses in California’s Central Valley. To view the current Corporate Social Responsibility report, visit csr.wonderful.com. 

The Wonderful Company is an Equality Opportunity Employer that provides opportunities for advancement. We are committed to creating a diverse workforce that embodies a deep culture of acceptance, equity, and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories.

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