Microbiology Laboratory Technician
Location: Garrett Laboratories, Inc. – Niles, Michigan
Position Summary
Garrett Laboratories, Inc. is seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Microbiology Laboratory Technician to perform microbiological testing of dairy products, water samples, environmental samples, and food products. The technician will be responsible for sample preparation, microbiological analysis, data recording, quality control activities, and maintaining laboratory compliance with established procedures and industry standards.
The ideal candidate will possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to producing accurate and timely laboratory results.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Receive, log, and prepare samples for analysis.
- Perform microbiological testing on raw milk, pasteurized milk, cultured dairy products, ice cream, water, environmental swabs, and food products.
- Conduct testing including:
- Standard Plate Count (SPC)
- Aerobic Plate Count (APC)
- Coliform Testing
- E. coli Testing
- Yeast and Mold Counts
- Preliminary Incubation (PI) Counts
- Environmental Monitoring
- Pathogen Screening
- Water Microbiology Testing
- Prepare and inoculate media according to established procedures.
- Incubate, read, and interpret microbiological cultures.
- Perform colony counts and calculate results accurately.
Laboratory Operations
- Prepare microbiological media, reagents, and laboratory supplies.
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment including:
- Incubators
- Autoclaves
- Colony counters
- Pipettes
- Balances
- Water baths
- Laboratory information systems
- Maintain laboratory inventory and assist with ordering supplies.
- Ensure proper sample storage and disposal.
Quality Assurance and Compliance
- Follow laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Maintain accurate laboratory records and data entry.
- Perform quality control testing and documentation.
- Participate in proficiency testing and internal audits.
- Comply with laboratory safety requirements and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).
- Report non-conforming results, equipment issues, and quality concerns to laboratory management.
General Duties
- Maintain a clean, organized, and professional laboratory environment.
- Assist laboratory staff with special projects and client requests.
- Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.
- Support Garrett Laboratories' commitment to providing exceptional customer service and accurate laboratory results.
Qualifications/Education
- Associate degree in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, Laboratory Science, Chemistry, or related scientific field preferred.
- Relevant laboratory experience may be substituted for education requirements.
Experience
- Previous microbiology laboratory experience preferred.
- Experience in dairy, food, water, or environmental testing is a plus.
- Entry-level candidates with appropriate scientific education are encouraged to apply.
Skills and Abilities
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to follow written procedures and instructions.
- Basic knowledge of microbiological testing techniques.
- Strong math and recordkeeping skills.
- Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and laboratory software systems.
- Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced laboratory setting.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
- Manual dexterity for pipetting and handling laboratory equipment.
- Ability to work safely around microbiological cultures and laboratory chemicals.
Benefits
- Paid holidays
- Paid time off
- On-the-job training
- Professional development opportunities
About Garrett Laboratories
Garrett Laboratories, Inc. has provided microbiological testing services to the dairy, food, water, and environmental industries for more than 50 years. Our mission is to deliver accurate, timely, and dependable laboratory results while providing exceptional service to our clients throughout Michigan and surrounding states.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Work Location: In person
