Microbiologist

Job description

Job Purpose:

This position is responsible for raw milk and product testing and ingredient screening for presence of harmful bacteria. The role involves analyzing chemical composition by examining chemical or biological samples, identifying cell structures or locating bacteria or extraneous material using a microscope.

Main Tasks & Accountabilities:

General Responsibilities

Microbiological testing

Examine chemical or biological samples to identify cell structures or to locate bacteria or extraneous material, using a microscope

Examine characteristics or behavior of living organisms
Analyze chemical compounds or substances

Preparing sample

Prepare or incubate slides with cell cultures

Prepare biological samples for testing or analysis

Support product development

Mix, blend, or cultivate ingredients to make reagents or to manufacture food or beverage products

Prepare compounds or solutions for products or testing

Health, Hygiene and safety

Design, document and help implement hygiene programs and ensure compliance with good manufacturing practices (GMP's)
Ensure HACCP / ISO compliance
Conduct audits for workplace hygiene to ensure compliance
Implement training programs to create awareness about the importance of hygiene in dairy operations

Address complaints from consumers

Handle complaints or enquiries from customers on food hygiene matters forwarded by the hygiene specialist

Teamwork

Support in developing, organizing, and administering training for HACCP and hygiene, and food safety topics
Effective communication within and outside the team
Create a supportive environment for the team members
Contribute to the team, letting others know information that may be useful or important
Help to create a fun, supportive work environment

People management and reporting responsibilities

Liaison with management and other line managers (as part of cross function team) for implementing company quality policy and procedures
Conduct scheduled and adhoc hygiene meetings.
Produce end of month hygiene report highlighting concerns if any
Ensure tasks are understood by the team members, and performed responsibly and diligently
Help others in the team if needed; Support relief staff in their duties

Main Contacts and Working Relationships

Internal: All Department Heads and Line Managers.
External: Stakeholders, customers, agencies etc.

Education Level –    Minimum Requirement

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Food Science, biotechnology, or related field preferred

Professional   Qualifications

Professional certificate in microbiology is preferred
Valid driver’s license

Work Experience

Experience of 3 years in a similar position; Experience in dairy plant preferred
Knowledge of chemistry/microbiology
Familiarity with all applicable equipment and perform quality inspections on all related items
Familiarity with and working knowledge of documentation required for quality testing and control procedures
Being able to resolve technical issues

Job Specific Skills

Testing and development
Critical thinking and complex problem-solving skills
Knowledge of industry safety practices

Generic Skills

Must be alert, strive for accuracy, and have ability to exercise independent thinking and judgment, be a self- motivator, and attention to detail
Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability
Integrity, discretion and loyalty

Position Location

To be based in Al Suninah and travelling to all depots in Oman