QC Microbiologist

COMPANY OVERVIEW:

Balchem Corporation develops, manufactures and markets specialty ingredients that improve and enhance the health and well-being of life on the planet, providing state-of-the-art solutions and the finest quality products for a range of industries worldwide. Our corporate headquarters is located in New Hampton, New York, (Hudson Valley area) and we have a broad network of sales offices, manufacturing sites, and R&D centers, primarily located in the US and Europe. Founded in 1967, Balchem is a publicly traded company (NASDAQ - "BCPC") with annual revenues over $640 million and a market cap exceeding $3.0 billion. The company consists of four business segments: Human Nutrition & Health; Animal Nutrition & Health; Specialty Products; and Industrial Products. Balchem employs over 1,400 people worldwide who are engaged in diverse activities, committed to developing the company into global market leadership positions. To learn more about our dynamic, stable and growing company, visit www.balchem.com

POSITION SUMMARY:

Perform 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 FUNCTIONS:

• Microbiological testing and release/rejection of raw materials and finished products
• Collect, analyze, and monitor environmental samples, and manage each program. Revise and update EM programs as needed
• Perform OOS investigation and root cause analysis for out of specification and out of trend results
• Develop and validate microbiological methods for use in dietary supplement and food applications
• Responsible for specifying and ensuring satisfactory outcome of 3rd party proficiency testing
• Train and provide guidance to laboratory personnel
• Perform data verification, interpretation, and analysis
• Responsible for the operation, maintenance, calibration and repair of microbiology laboratory instruments and equipment
• Inspect/audit lab activities and data to ensure implementation of quality systems
• Provide back fill coverage in all other lab positions and contribute experience and scientific knowledge
• Perform mathematical and statistical analyses of results
• Developing and formalize laboratory procedures and practices
• Write laboratory reports, protocols, SOPs and work instructions
• Ensure audit preparedness for the microbiology lab
• Assist with audit of 3rd microbiology lab services providers
• Other duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology or closely related field
• 2-4 years of experience in a cGMP microbiology laboratory, must have environmental monitoring experience in a production facility
• Experience with microbiological assays and aseptic techniques; familiarity with cGMPs, FDA guidelines, and good laboratory practices
• Environmental Monitoring Program training and experience preferred
• In depth knowledge of USP, AOAC, FDA BAM microbiological testing methods
• Knowledge of allergen testing methods
• Knowledge of ISO 17025 requirements

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Works inside a laboratory, subject to fumes, odors, gases
• MSDS reference for hazardous materials
• Occasional work in production facility with exposure to dust, heat and stairways

#IN

Balchem is committed to a workplace culture that values and promotes diversity, inclusion, equal employment opportunities, and a work environment free of harassment and hostility.