Job Description

A Sustainable, Forward Thinking Protein Company

Maple Leaf Foods is a leading meat and plant-based protein company, employing over 11,500 people and publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange. We are proud of our roots, which trace back well over 100 years, but our vision and purpose are decidedly forward looking. As we pursue our vision to become the most sustainable protein company on earth, we are committed to creating shared value – creative business value through addressing some of the world’s most critical social and environmental challenges. Our goal is to build a more sustainable food system, which provides nutritious affordable food, operates within planetary limits, cares for animals responsibly, and meaningfully engages with our communities to advance a more just society. We are advancing bold changes within Maple Leaf and more broadly within society to pursue our vision. We deeply believe this is the sustainable path to growth

Our job is to make great food

Maple Leaf Foods embraces a strong values-based culture, where our people are deeply engaged in work that is purposeful, fast-paced and challenging. We cultivate an open, non-bureaucratic and inclusive workplace that fosters safety and transparency, along with individual leadership and accountability. Each Maple Leaf team member has a voice and plays an active role in helping all of us achieve our goals with passion and discipline. We support one another to grow professionally, to learn new skills and to take on challenging experiences in the spirit of continuous improvement

Raise the Good in Food

We have united behind a shared purpose – to Raise the Good in Food. This spans a dramatic transformation of our flagship Maple Leaf brand, replacing anything artificial with simple, natural ingredients; investments and process changes to reduce our environmental footprint by 50% by 2025; building a diverse and inclusive culture where all talent thrives; becoming a leader in animal care; and advancing food security through our charitable foundation, the Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security.

Our Leadership Values

Eight core values guide us in everything that we do.

• Do What’s Right
• Shared Value
• High Performance
• Diverse and Inclusive Teams
• Disciplined Decision Making
• Our Accountability
• Intense Curiosity
• Transparency and Humility

The Opportunity

The Microbial Technologist is responsible for the assurance of accurate sample analysis, reporting and participating in projects. This includes following occupational health and safety standards and supporting the laboratory programs through good laboratory practices. The Microbial/Chemical Technologist is organized, has a high attention to detail, is well versed in a variety of technological methods and is able to work professionally in a fast paced and dynamic environment.

A snapshot of some of the exciting things you will lead and do:

• Analysis: Perform testing on samples received into the lab as directed by the lab supervisor or delegate and accurately report results into appropriate test forms or databases. This may include the handling of pathogenic organisms and hazardous chemicals/materials. Participation in proficiency testing and internal or external audits is required.
• Projects: Design and implement viable experiments for investigative projects. This includes the development of the experimental design, conducting the investigation, and forming conclusions. Creating a summary report which includes raw data, project hours and supply usage.
• Develop/modify procedures and test methods and perform verification/validation of methods as needed.
• Perform startup/ shut down procedures for the Laboratory. This may include equipment start-up/shut down, laboratory disinfection / cleaning, incubator/ refrigerator checks, balance checks, etc.
• Calibrate and maintain testing equipment and record calibration / maintenance activities and results as per laboratory technical procedures and/or work instructions.
• Enter test results/ data into the LIMS database. Enter data onto laboratory forms. Verify the accuracy of data entered.
• Sample preparation: Perform preliminary sample preparation to label, scale and grind samples for analysis. Conduct pre-analytical testing on packaging and samples.
• Assist in the training of newly hired laboratory staff.
• Sample receipt: Receive all customer submissions and ensure the sample integrity is maintained following aseptic techniques and record sample condition (including, but not limited to temperature checks, submission form accuracy, and test requests). Properly identify lab samples for analysis and assign report numbers as appropriate. Provide aid to customers as requested.
• Sample log in: Enter samples into LIMS and any associated paperwork. Verify the accuracy of data entered. Label and prepare samples for analysis with LIMS numbers assigned. Ensure all samples are redirected to the appropriate area.
• SAP receiver: Receive items into SAP, acquire C of A's for inventory. Receive and store inventory as per lab protocols
• Media/Solution preparation: Prepare solutions, reagents and /or growth mediums as outlined per Laboratory Technical Procedure and /or work instructions.
• May require handling of hazardous chemical/materials.
• Housekeeping: Using Six Sigma tools to maintain an organized lab while maintaining good housekeeping practices and notifying 1-up managers of any issues associated with the lab environment or equipment. Handle waste disposal and glassware cleaning.
• Report Generation: Perform a review, approval, and issue/distribute laboratory reports, including email notifications to the appropriate distribution lists and/or customers.
• Responsible for the knowledge of and compliance to all aspects of the Quality Management System.

What we have to offer you:

• Be part of a company with an inspiring and unique vision, with a deep commitment to sustainability and expanding its leadership in sustainable protein across North America
• Professional and career development opportunities
• Competitive Health and Wellness benefits that start on your first day of employment
• Defined Contribution Pension Plan
• Commitment to Learning – courses, resources and tools provided to all employees
• Employee Assistance Program

What you will bring:

• Minimum: B.Sc. or Technical Diploma in relevant sciences; Microbiology (preferred) or Biology/Food Science with emphasis on food/environmental biology. Minimum 1 year of work experience in a microbiology laboratory or food industry.
• Strong multi-tasking capability and comfortable with routine work
• Competent computer skills
• Must be business results, and values oriented, work as part of a functional team, abide by the company’s Code of Business Conduct, be able to display impartiality and be an exceptional fit with our Maple Leaf Leadership values.

Maple Leaf Foods is committed to ensuring the health and safety of all our employees. As part of this commitment, we have adopted a number of COVID-19 safety measures, including a requirement for all employees to be fully vaccinated by March 31, 2022 and to show proof of vaccination. In keeping with this policy, successful candidates will need to provide proof of vaccination by March 31, 2022 (or prior to their first day of work if the start date is after March 31, 2022). We will of course consider accommodations for anyone unable to be vaccinated following human rights and other applicable laws
We thank all applicants for their interest in exploring employment opportunities with Maple Leaf Foods; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Applicants may be subject to a background check and must meet the security criteria designated for the position.
Championing diversity and inclusion is a critical component to advancing our collective purpose and vision, living the Maple Leaf Leadership Values, and delivering winning results. Accommodation is available upon request for applicants with disabilities in the recruitment and assessment process and when hired; please contact our Talent Attraction Team at accommodations@mapleleaf.com.