What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality Control Microbiologist position at FermaBlend Technologies?
QC Microbiologist
FermaBlend Technologies
Solon, Ohio | Full-time | Operations Department
FermaBlend Technologies is seeking a full-time QC Microbiologist to join our Operations team in Solon, Ohio.
This role is responsible for microbiological testing, product quality testing, quality documentation, and operational support for fermentation-based production. The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on laboratory experience, excellent attention to detail, knowledge of CFU testing and other microbiological testing methods, and a willingness to cross-train in fermentation production and other operational areas.
Position Summary
The QC Microbiologist will support quality control activities across raw materials, in-process samples, finished products, environmental samples, and related operational workflows. This position works closely with production, inventory, and quality personnel to ensure testing, documentation, and product release activities are completed accurately and on time.
Key Responsibilities
• Perform microbiological quality control testing, including CFU testing and other microbiological product testing.
• Conduct routine testing of raw materials, in-process samples, finished products, and environmental samples as needed.
• Prepare, handle, and maintain microbial cultures, media, reagents, samples, and laboratory supplies.
• Accurately complete QC documentation, including Certificates of Analysis, batch records, test records, and related quality forms.
• Review test results for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with FermaBlend Technologies specifications.
• Support product release activities by ensuring test data and documentation are complete and accurate.
• Participate in customer complaint investigations, including sample review, testing, documentation, and assistance with root-cause analysis.
• Communicate test results, quality concerns, and production issues to the COO and appropriate team members in a timely manner.
• Support fermentation production activities as needed and participate in cross-training for production-related duties.
• Assist with inventory control, material tracking, sample organization, laboratory supply management, and other operational needs.
• Follow FermaBlend Technologies SOPs, safety procedures, sanitation practices, and quality standards.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory work area.
• Assist with continuous improvement efforts related to QC testing, documentation, production support, and operational efficiency.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
• Degree in Microbiology, Biology, Biotechnology, Food Science, Chemistry, or another related scientific field.
• 1–2 years of laboratory experience required.
• Prior experience working in a laboratory environment.
• Knowledge of CFU testing and other microbiological product testing methods.
• Ability to accurately complete QC documentation, including Certificates of Analysis and batch records.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate recordkeeping.
• Ability to follow written procedures, SOPs, testing protocols, and safety requirements.
• Willingness to cross-train and assist with fermentation production, inventory, and other operational duties.
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced operations environment.
Preferred Qualifications
• 3–5 years of laboratory experience preferred.
• Experience in fermentation, food, beverage, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, agricultural, or microbial product manufacturing.
• Experience with customer complaint investigations, deviation documentation, corrective actions, or root-cause analysis.
• Experience with inventory tracking, production documentation, and product release testing.
Physical and Work Environment Requirements
• Ability to work in both laboratory and production environments.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive laboratory tasks.
• Ability to lift and move materials up to 50 pounds.
• Comfortable wearing required personal protective equipment and following safety protocols.
• Comfortable working around fermentation equipment, microbial cultures, laboratory materials, and production-related supplies.
• May require occasional work outside standard business hours depending on production or testing needs.
Compensation
Compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, and company pay structure.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
FermaBlend Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.