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Job Description
The Food Safety Scientist plays a crucial role in supporting daily operations at the Innovation Center Microbiology Laboratory by conducting routine microbiological testing on products and environmental samples, while assisting in microbiological analyses to support investigative efforts. This hands-on laboratory position offers the opportunity to develop skills in applied food microbiology, aseptic technique, and regulatory compliance.
ResponsibilitiesReceive, log, and prepare product and environmental samples for microbiological analysis following established protocols.Perform routine testing such as total plate count, yeast and mold, lactic acid bacteria, and other relevant assays.Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment, including incubators, autoclaves, balances, and pipettes to ensure accuracy and reliability.Prepare media, reagents, and sterile supplies according to laboratory standards.Record observations, test results, and activities accurately in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems.Comply with Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and all safety procedures to protect sample integrity and ensure accurate results.Safely handle and dispose of laboratory waste in accordance with safety and environmental regulations.Participate in training and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance laboratory efficiency, quality, and innovation.Support environmental monitoring and sanitation verification programs across facilities as needed.Collaborate with team members to achieve departmental goals and maintain seamless laboratory operations.Perform additional duties as assigned by your supervisor.Essential SkillsBachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or a related field.Minimum of 1–2 years of relevant experience in a laboratory or related setting.Foundational knowledge of microbiological concepts and aseptic techniques.Familiarity with laboratory equipment operation and general safety practices.Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standard operating procedures.Effective organizational, documentation, and communication skills.Proficiency with basic computer applications, including Microsoft Office Suite.Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, or holidays as needed.Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience with microbiology, plating, and autoclave operations.Work Environment
The role is based in the Microbiology lab at the Innovation Center, a beautiful and clean facility that is not a manufacturing site. The lab is smaller with dedicated desk spaces, and you will work alongside two other Food Safety Scientist I's and a part-time Microbiology Lab Tech. The team often celebrates birthdays and holidays together, and there is potential for career progression, from Food Safety Scientist I to Food Safety Scientist II, Principal Scientist, and leadership roles. Flexibility to work alongside team members, including a future Microbiology Lab Supervisor, is expected.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lewis Center, Ohio.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $24.00 - $27.00/hr.
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 Type
This is a fully onsite position in Lewis Center,OH.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Sep 9, 2025.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.