Job Description

The Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre Inc. (Food Centre) has an immediate need for a Microbiology and Analytical Technician to work in its new Fermentation & Bioengineering program. You will be part of a team involved in fermentation projects for food and non-food applications for external clients and internal initiatives. You will have opportunities to learn and develop skills in fermentation technology over time. You will be a willing and enthusiastic learner.


Duties, responsibilities and qualifications:

• Extensive understanding of microbiology principles and extensive hands-on experience including proper aseptic techniques, microbial testing, cell banking, plate counts, staining techniques. etc.
• Experience with a wide variety of analytical techniques for carbohydrates, starch, proteins, metabolites, etc.
• Experience with DNA, RNA and protein isolation from bacteria, fungi and plants.
• Experience in performing quantitative real-time PCR assays.
• Strong ability to read and understand operating manuals and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Generate, complete and maintain Batch Records.
• Excellent laboratory organization and record keeping.
• Ability to perform basic data analyses in Excel.
• Follow QA/QC standards, practices and protocols established at the Food Centre.
• Monitor growth of microorganisms and progress of fermentation.
• Perform in-process testing during fermentation runs including plating, microscopic analyses, and various analytical procedures, as necessary.
• Contribute to improve and optimize process quality and efficiency.
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration of equipment.
• Follow all safety protocols and safely operate equipment.
• Maintain inventory of supplies, consumables and strains.
• In consultation with supervisor, request quotes from suppliers and order laboratory supplies.
• Ability and willingness to work after hours, if needed, depending on project demands.
• Ability to lift weight up to 22.5 Kg.


Qualifications:


• Diploma or degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology and/or related fields.
• Required assets: superior attention to detail, good communication, computer knowledge, ability to observe, report and participate in process optimization.


Email resume and cover letter to Dr. Pooba Ganeshan pganeshan@foodcentre.sk.ca Resumes will be accepted until position is filled. We thank all applicants, however only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.