Senior Scientist - Microbiology

Company Description

Everyday our experienced team of 1800+ people work alongside farmers, producers, and others throughout the food supply chain to help them uphold what Aotearoa stands for in food - a higher standard of quality and safety.

We are passionate about our shared role as Kaitiaki Kai, guardians of food, and have a deep responsibility to do the right thing for food and the environments it comes from. We are committed to attracting, developing, and retaining great people, and supporting them to be the best they can be.

We know diverse teams are stronger teams and we believe in fairness and opportunity for all. Helping Aotearoa shape a better food world.

The Opportunity:

We have a career-defining opportunity available for a Senior Scientist/Microbiologist to join our expert team at our Auckland Laboratory. You will be responsible for performing specialist work including:

• Microbiological analysis of food or food related samples. 
• Molecular biological analysis including PCR and Whole Genome Sequencing.
• Scientific report writing and expert interpretation of microbiological data.
• Technical training and troubleshooting for internal and external customers.
• Method validation and instrument qualification.
• Specialist project work such as microbiological challenge studies, product formulation validation or shelf-life verification protocols.  
• Guidance and advice to internal and external customers.

On-plant technical support for our customers will also be a requirement for this role, hence good working knowledge of HACCP, CIP and manufacturing processes will be expected. You will also be involved in method development and expected to be a leader in innovation, keeping AsureQuality ahead of the curve in terms of technology and new developments in the industry.

 About You:

To be considered for this role you will need:

• Strong technical expertise in food microbiology.
• At least five years relevant experience in a microbiology laboratory accredited to ISO 17025.
• At least ten years of relevant experience in process microbiology, understanding industry practices, regulations, cleaning in place (CIP) and associated microbiological challenges.
• A formal degree or equivalent qualification in microbiology.
• Hands-on experience with techniques such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), and Bioinformatics, which are essential for genetic analysis and microbial identification.

Along with this background, your leadership, problem solving and investigative skills will be vital to your success in this role.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential. You thrive on providing quality service to both internal and external customers are a motivated fast learner and have an excellent eye for detail.