Microbiologist PositionBalchem is committed to making the world a healthier place by delivering trusted, innovative, and science-based solutions for the health and nutritional needs of the world. Balchem employs approximately 1,400 employees worldwide who provide the service, quality, and technology that enables our customers to win with their customers. We have built a reputation for delivering results to all of our stakeholders.
Founded in 1967, Balchem, a Maryland corporation, became a publicly traded company in 1970 and is listed on Nasdaq under the symbol "BCPC." Our corporate headquarters is located in Montvale, New Jersey, and we have a broad network of sales offices, manufacturing sites, and R&D centers, primarily located in the U.S. and Europe. The Company consists of three business segments: Human Nutrition and Health, Animal Nutrition and Health, and Specialty Products.Position SummaryPerform and manage the day-to-day microbiological testing of raw materials and finished goods.
Assist in risk evaluations for microbiological hazards as a member of the food safety team. Assist in the management and maintenance of the environmental monitoring program, and other associated testing in the laboratory. Contribute to Balchem network microbiological problem solving for environmental monitoring (EM) and product testing.Essential FunctionsMicrobiological testing and release/rejection of raw materials and finished productsCollect, analyze, and monitor environmental samples, and manage each program.
Revise and update EM programs as neededPerform OOS investigation and root cause analysis for out of specification and out of trend resultsDevelop and validate microbiological methods for use in dietary supplement and food applicationsResponsible for specifying and ensuring satisfactory outcome of 3rd party proficiency testingTrain and provide guidance to laboratory personnelPerform data verification, interpretation, and analysisResponsible for the operation, maintenance, calibration and repair of microbiology laboratory instruments and equipmentInspect/audit lab activities and data to ensure implementation of quality systemsProvide back fill coverage in all other lab positions and contribute experience and scientific knowledgePerform mathematical and statistical analyses of resultsDeveloping and formalize laboratory procedures and practicesWrite laboratory reports, protocols, SOPs and work instructionsEnsure audit preparedness for the microbiology labAssist with audit of 3rd microbiology lab services providersOther duties as assignedRequirementsBachelor's degree in Microbiology or closely related field2-4 years of experience in a cGMP microbiology laboratoryExperience with microbiological assays and aseptic techniques; familiarity with cGMPs, FDA guidelines, and good laboratory practicesEnvironmental Monitoring Program training and experience preferredIn depth knowledge of USP, AOAC, FDA BAM microbiological testing methodsKnowledge of allergen testing methodsKnowledge of ISO 17025 requirementsWorking ConditionsWorks inside a laboratory, subject to fumes, odors, gasesMSDS reference for hazardous materialsOccasional work in production facility with exposure to dust, heat and stairwaysBalchem is committed to a workplace culture that values and promotes diversity, inclusion, equal employment opportunities, and a work environment free of harassment and hostility.