The Central Quality Control Microbiology Lead reports to the Microbiology Lab Manager and supports the maintenance of ISO17025 Quality Management System thorught assurance of the day-to-day operations of the Central Quality Control Microbiology Lab in various capacities to optimize the testing capacity of the lab.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform, monitor, review, and report testing in area of the Microbiology Department
• Maintain working knowledge of all lab methods. This role will assist with routine finished product microbiology lab testing in times of high-test volume or low technician availability.
• Oversee non-conforming work investigations related to ISO17025.
• Prepare for & participate in the annual Internal Audit & accreditation activities for ISO17025 program.
• Actively participates in Quality Control testing on proficiency and any re-tests requested by Lab Manger.
• Assists in maintaining quality system records to comply with all accrediting agencies.
• Assist with the review/maintenance of controlled documents – test methods, SOPs, quality manual, lab forms.
• Communicate status of the technicians training for both on-boarding and method updates to Lab Manager
• Keeps the Lab Manager informed of issues or problems in the Lab.
• Identifies and communicates results that require further discussion with the Lab Manager.
• Perform regular maintenance of laboratory equipment and instruments by inspecting calibrating, cleaning, or sterilizing.
• Maintain cryopreserved cultures in BSL-2 culture lab.
• Learns new techniques and technologies as appropriate.
• Perform / oversee BSL-2 culture lab projects.
• Oversee archival process for lab paperwork and sample retains.

ISO 17025 SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITES

• ensures that all health and safety regulations are followed
• writes test methods
• writes and/or approves SOPs
• maintains records and manages all aspects of testing activities
• orientates new personnel
• facilitates operational concerns in their area
• prioritizes workload
• coordinates purchasing requests
• ensures accurate and consistent testing procedures through the validation of all current procedures and by developing, validating, and implementing new procedures
• ensure the identification, documentation, and correction of nonconformities and potential nonconformities on the Corrective Action Tracking Worksheet

COMPETENCIES

• Accuracy
• Orientation to details
• Initiative
• Communication
• Team Player
• Dependability
• Productivity

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in a biology-based area of study (Biology, Microbiology, Cellular/Molecular Biology, Genetics). Microbiology preferred.

EXPERIENCE

• 5+ years lab experience with a minimum of 2 years microbiology lab experience, preferably with BSL-2 laboratory experience.
  • Including a working knowledge of the following techniques: isolation streaking, dilution plating (spread and/or pour), aseptic technique, gram staining, bacterial culture propagation & cryopreservation, membrane filtration; rapid methods.
  • Including a working knowledge of the use/maintenance of the following equipment: Class II Biological Safety cabinet, phase-contrast microscope, autoclave, incubator, VIDAS, pan balance, pH meter.
• Working knowledge of ISO 17025 requirements preferred.
• Experience with GLP documentation and following SOPs

SKILLS / KNOWLEDGE

• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
• Excellent computer skills – Word, Excel, Outlook, MDE, SAP

Location: Hoffman Estates, IL

Work Hours: 8:00 to 4:30 pm Monday-Friday (some flex in the start and end times may be allowed; weekend work as required)

California Consumer Privacy Act ("CCPA")

The Company is committed to complying with the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”) and all data privacy and laws in the jurisdictions in which it recruits and hires employees. We collect the following categories of personal information for the purpose of hiring the best qualified applicants and to comply with applicable employment laws: Name and contact information; Job preference and work availability; Social Security Number and/or other identification information; Education and qualifications; Employment history and experience; Military service; Reference and background check information, including relevant criminal history and credit history; Social media information; Pre-employment test results; Post-offer medical examination information and results, including drug test results; Voluntary self-disclosure information regarding minority, veteran, and disability status; and Information provided by you during the hiring process.

Tate & Lyle is an equal opportunity employer, committed to the strength of an inclusive workforce.