Lead Microbiologist

SC Labs is the largest multi-state laboratory bringing together the industry’s most reputable testing labs. SC Labs, founded in 2010, is one of the cannabis industry’s oldest licensed testing labs and the first to develop a national hemp testing panel. The company is licensed and accredited in California, Oregon, Colorado, Michigan, and Arizona.

The combination brings together three of the longest standing and most respected cannabis and hemp testing organizations in the U.S. and forms the foundation of a national testing network. The combination will bring value to both the hemp and cannabis industries, ranging from access to a broader range of testing resources, improved data delivery, innovative science, instrument redundancy and increased testing capacity, and improved operations to accelerate turnaround times.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a full-time Lead Microbiologist to join the team. This position will be based in our Santa Cruz, CA lab facility. The Lead Microbiologist will assist and support the routine and non-routine day to day operations within the Laboratory. This position will be responsible for overseeing the successful operations of the Microbiology department including: Sample throughput and deadlines, Ensuring quality of data, Overseeing staff training and safety, Quality assurance documentation, Routine department maintenance and cleanliness.

• Seeking applicants who already reside in the Santa Cruz, CA region.
• Preferred Knowledge: Familiarity with DCC regulations. Strong knowledge base and experience in analyzing microbial pathogens including Aspergillus, Salmonella, STEC, etc.
• Preferred Methodologies: Experience with Medicinal Genomics and other qPCR methodologies.

Schedule

Full-time non-exempt position and will include weekend days. Exact hours/schedule/days to be determined by the Lab Director.

Pay Rate:

Starting hourly pay rate range is $28.00 – $32.00, based on experience, with final determination to be made by the Lab Director.

Requirements:

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in one of the natural sciences.
• At least 4 – 5 years of full-time experience performing microbiology or diagnostic testing in a regulated laboratory environment.
• Strong knowledge of testing processes and procedures within a GMP environment.
• Knowledge and application of good aseptic technique, PCR and DNA extraction, and culturing techniques.

Specific Duties/Responsibilities:

• Performs and oversees routine and non-routine testing, and analyses using the appropriate qualified equipment.
• Receives as well as processes samples in a safe and aseptic manner.
• Calculates results, and records and reports results using the laboratory Management System.
• Performs and oversees daily and weekly cleaning procedures of the laboratory.
• Performs and oversees instrument cleaning procedures as necessary.
• Performs and oversees equipment calibration and qualifications as requested.
• Maintains equipment in proper working order, and maintains a clean work environment.
• Completes all required training in a timely manner, and maintains training on updated policies and procedures.
• Trains new employees on test methods.
• Practices safe work habits, including complying with all safety, health, and environmental rules and regulations.
• Help to maintain laboratory inventory, and properly label and store chemicals and supplies.
• Leads validation planning and execution.
• Updates/revises/develops SOPs when necessary.
• Communicates to Lab Management any laboratory testing issues related to health, safety, or testing practices.
• Performs competency testing and PT testing as needed, and will report results to lab management for review.
• Performs other related duties as assigned or as delegated by Lab Management.

Qualifications:

• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Education:

A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in one of the natural sciences.

Benefits Offered:

• Medical (HDHP with HSA is one option), Dental, and Vision insurance.
• Paid Holidays and Flexible Paid Time Off.
• 401(k) Plan with a Company Match.
• Employer Paid Life coverage, as well as Optional Life Coverage.
• Flexible Spending Account.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time at the Company’s discretion.

All employment offers will be contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

SC Labs provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.