Temporary Assistant Microbiologist bei Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA)

Temporary Assistant Microbiologist

Come join the Tillamook Team, one of the fastest-growing dairy brands in the US, where we Play to Win to create over 200 dairy products in 7 different categories: cheese, ice cream, yogurt, sour cream, butter, cream cheese and frozen meals. Our Uncompromising Quality has led us to become the #1 Cheddar, #2 Cream Cheese and #3 Family Size Ice Cream brand, but we’re not stopping there. We’re loading up for our best years to come and want you to join us.

As a farmer-owned cooperative since 1909, we know that being Good Stewards for our stakeholders and doing a little extra always pays off. We’re looking for team members with a One Team and Genuine Care mindset who are inspired to share the delight of the Tillamook brand with each other and others every day.

*This Temporary role will be for a duration of approximately 5 months*

What you will do:

The Temporary Assistant Microbiologist provides microbial technical support to the production facilities and other internal laboratories in addition to both the dairymen and field department, accomplishes testing in compliance with laboratory certifications, ensures timeliness of results, supplies inventory as related to internal laboratory needs and farm service, and works directly with dairymen, production facilities, and other laboratories on microbiological issues.

Here’s a day in the life: 

• Conduct microbiological testing on milk, cheese, ice cream, whey, and lactose products 

• Perform molecular testing including DNA extractions, PCR, and preparation of PCR primers and master mix 

• Ensure timely sample testing and process efficiency while maintaining meticulous aseptic technique

• Review and oversee test results

• Coordinate with external labs for routine and confirmation testing 

• Collaborate with production team, coop members and lab personnel to troubleshoot microbial issues

• Data entry, and reporting to internal teams and patrons via email and Laboratory Information Management System

• Maintain inventory and order lab supplies as needed

• Use Microsoft Office, SharePoint, Teams, Word, PowerPoint; Excel proficiency preferred. LIMs and Madcap knowledge a plus

• Juggle various testing schedules to meet turnaround time requirements 

• Strong time management and ability to work independently required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology, or related field. 

• 1 to 3 years working in biological, molecular, or dairy testing labs preferred. 

• Must be able to work at least one weekend day and some holidays. 

Physical Requirements:

• Sitting

• Standing and/or walking

• Lifting 55 lbs.

• Vision for machine or computer operations

• Hearing

We are committed to creating a culture of inclusion where all employees are heard, valued and feel a sense of belonging. We rely on different perspectives, thoughts, backgrounds and cultures to inform our work, to help us be better as a brand and as an employer and to fuel our success. We are seeking talent from a wide range of diversity, perspectives, and backgrounds to join our exceptional organization and help us build our future.

Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) is a Drug-Free Workplace. EEO TCCA prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, disability status (including those related to pregnancy and childbirth), protected veteran status, membership/non-membership in a labor organization, or any other characteristic protected by law.