Job Description

Microbiology TechnicianThe Microbiology Technician prepares and analyzes samples for microbiological and chemical testing in a fast-paced laboratory environment. This role supports food safety and quality programs by applying aseptic techniques, maintaining laboratory media and reagents, and performing routine quality control checks. The technician contributes to accurate, reliable test results by following established procedures, maintaining clean and safe lab conditions, and supporting team goals through effective communication and collaboration.ResponsibilitiesPrepare samples for indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemical analyses in accordance with established laboratory procedures.Apply aseptic techniques consistently in all daily tasks to prevent contamination and ensure reliable test results.Maintain and prepare media, reagents, and other materials required for microbiological testing.Monitor, inventory, and report expendable supplies and materials needed for testing to ensure continuous laboratory operations.Perform routine preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment, including cleaning, sanitizing, and proper trash disposal.Conduct quality control monitoring by recording incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, running media controls, and documenting results.Follow assigned processes, procedures, and techniques in line with laboratory policies, standard operating procedures, and customer requirements.Maintain laboratory conditions by ensuring equipment is in good working order, supplies are organized, quality assurance programs are followed, and accurate records are kept throughout all procedures.Perform all activities in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner to support a clean and compliant laboratory environment.Share information openly and in a timely manner with team members and leadership to support effective communication and workflow.Assist in managing daily priorities and schedules to help the team achieve individual and collective goals.Ensure personal safety and the safety of others within the work area by adhering to strict safety protocols and guidelines.Complete all required training and maintain up-to-date knowledge of laboratory practices, safety procedures, and quality standards.Support sample management activities, including sample receipt, labeling, handling, storage, and tracking as needed.Participate in general lab support tasks such as preparing solutions, cleaning and maintaining equipment, and organizing workspaces.Essential SkillsExperience working in a laboratory environment with a focus on microbiology, microbiological testing, or related lab support activities.Knowledge of microbiology laboratory practices, including sample preparation, sample collection, sample analysis, sample testing, and sample management.Ability to apply aseptic techniques consistently to prevent contamination and ensure accuracy of microbiological results.Familiarity with quality control procedures in a lab setting, including running controls, monitoring equipment, and documenting results.Experience working with lab equipment commonly used in microbiology and food testing laboratories.Understanding of lab safety practices and the ability to work safely with hazardous chemicals and microbiological pathogens.Broad knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures of a food testing laboratory.High school diploma or GED.Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow protocols and standard operating procedures accurately.Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced lab environment handling a high volume of samples.Effective communication skills and the ability to share information clearly and in a timely manner.Ability to organize tasks, manage time, and support team priorities and schedules.Additional Skills & QualificationsAssociate degree in a Life Science discipline is preferred.Two years of laboratory experience is preferred.Experience or coursework in food safety or food science.Exposure to PCR or molecular techniques in a laboratory setting.Ability to travel is preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience.Interest in learning new microbiology techniques and expanding technical skills.Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in an interactive, team-based lab environment.Work EnvironmentThis role is based in a microbiology testing laboratory that operates on multiple shifts to support high sample volumes. There is one opening on 2nd shift (2:00 PM10:30 PM, Tuesday through Saturday) and one opening on 3rd shift (9:00 PM5:30 AM, Tuesday through Saturday). The lab receives a large volume of samples, often 2,000 or more per day, creating a fast-paced and dynamic work setting. The environment is interactive and team-oriented, with multiple tests and experiments running simultaneously and frequent communication among team members. Noise levels and temperatures may vary depending on equipment and processes, ranging from quiet to loud and from hot to cold. The work involves diverse duties, including preparing samples and solutions, cleaning and maintaining equipment, and supporting routine testing activities, which keeps daily tasks varied and engaging. Strict safety protocols are in place due to the use of hazardous chemicals and microbiological pathogens, and maintaining a clean, sterile environment is essential to prevent contamination and ensure accurate test results. The lab emphasizes continuous learning, offering opportunities to develop new techniques and build a strong foundation for career growth and specialization in microbiology. Dress and conduct align with standard laboratory expectations, including appropriate lab attire and adherence to hygiene and safety requirements.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Omaha, NE.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $20.96 - $22.43/hr.Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Omaha,NE.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Oct 12, 2026.

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