Food Safety Microbiologist

Overview

In this role you will provide microbiological results from raw materials and finished goods testing to protect product integrity and consumers. You will collaborate with shift operations to embed hygiene standards and strengthen quality processes. You drive continuous improvement in laboratory practice and contribute to quality and environment plans. This is a pivotal position in a fast-paced FMCG environment where robust food safety and microbiology expertise ensure safe, high-quality products.

Pay / Benefits

• Monthly product allowance
• Private medical options
• Life assurance
• Company bonus scheme
• Access to 24/7 GP services
• Enhanced pension contributions/generous pension plan? (referenced as Enhances pension contributions)

Responsibilities

• Run the microbiological laboratory and ensure it operates to standard
• Interpret and communicate results from microbiological testing
• Identify and implement opportunities for lab and quality management improvements
• Conduct internal audits, monitoring, and verification to ensure effectiveness of management systems
• Maintain quality management systems and policies to meet audit standards
• Contribute to development of Quality and Environment plans
• Support trials and new product introduction processes
• Build partnerships with regulatory bodies and government agencies
• Develop, implement and maintain training to raise microbiological awareness and capability
• Investigate microbiological issues via hygiene assessments across sites to protect product integrity
• Develop communication systems to ensure broad awareness of hygiene and quality standards
• Provide data and guidance to site operations for quality and food safety decisions

Key requirements

• Relevant degree in microbiology/biology is essential
• Ability to operate and maintain instruments (pH meters, densitometers, luminometers)
• Sound knowledge of food production processes
• Experience in a specialist microbiological analytical lab
• Knowledge of risk assessment tools and systems implementation
• Knowledge of relevant legislation (food safety, quality, water, health & safety, microbiology)
• Experience in quality, food safety, microbiology in an FMCG environment preferred
• Strong Microsoft Excel knowledge (SAP advantageous)
• Well-developed interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills
• Understanding of Food Defence is desirable
• HACCP and Food Hygiene intermediate level desirable

• relationship building
• facilitation
• written and verbal communication
• Instrument operation: pH meters, densitometers, luminometers
• Quality management systems
• Microsoft Excel; SAP (advantage)

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