We are looking for a Senior Microbiologist to join our team in Omaha, Nebraska!
As the Senior Microbiologist, reporting to the Manager of Scientific Affairs, you will analyze and study the general properties of bacteria and other microorganisms in both food and food processing environments at the Corporate Microbiology Laboratory. You will design and execute testing in the lab to support plant operations and/or R&D projects. Additionally, a significant portion of your time will explore new technologies and develop new capabilities across the organization.
Located along the Missouri River, our Omaha office is within walking distance to downtown shops and restaurants. Join us for yoga or strength training classes offered at the onsite fitness center. Conagra's R&D facilities in Omaha are state of the art, including a large super lab, open benchtop space for prototype development, a top-of-the-line culinary kitchen, and a 50,000 square foot pilot plant.
What you'll do in this role:
- Develop and implement leading-edge methods for detecting and identifying microorganisms (pathogenic or spoilage organisms) across the organization.
- Support plant investigative testing by conducting pathogen screening (initial screen and confirmation).
- Develop R&D or plant support projects such as method development, shelf-life studies, challenge studies, and other assorted projects.
- Proficient in data manipulation, data management, and LIMS.
- Guide and trains all lab personnel. Interact and guide/train plant laboratory personnel.
- Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment and a clean laboratory work environment.
- Prepare and edit technical reports, monthly reports, procedures for test methods, and quality management documents.
- Collect and analyze data using statistics, draw conclusions based on facts, and write concise reports.
- Champion a positive food safety culture, take ownership, and empower others to take immediate action on matters concerning food safety.
Position qualifications:
- BS degree in Biology, Microbiology, Food Science, or Biochemistry or related field required.
- 5+ years of related lab experience. MS or PhD graduate studies or laboratory work may be considered as a substitute for work experience.
- Advanced technical knowledge in molecular techniques such as PCR primer design, PCR programming and next-generation sequencing (whole genome sequencing, 16S/ITS metagenomics).
- Knowledge of food safety, food development processes, aseptic technique, and molecular microbiology techniques.
- Experience presenting and communicating scientific data to many audiences.
We require applicants for this role to be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring employer sponsorship either now or in the future.
Physical Requirements
- You will operate autoclaves, dishwashers, computers, and analytical equipment.
- You may lift objects up to 40 lbs.
- Exposure to lab equipment noise, and odors from microbiological testing.
Our benefits include medical, dental, vision, 15 vacation days, 6 additional days off and 11 paid holidays. Check out our 401k plan too! Conagra will match 100% up to the first 6% of pay you save. The company will also provide a 3% non-elective contribution to your account regardless of your participation (that's 9%)!
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Our Benefits:
We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role:
- Health: Comprehensive healthcare plans, wellness incentive program, mental wellbeing support and fitness reimbursement
- Wealth: Great pay, bonus incentive opportunity, matching 401(k) and stock purchase plan
- Growth: Career development opportunities, employee resource groups, on-demand learning and tuition reimbursement
- Balance: Paid-time off, parental leave, flexible work-schedules (subject to your location and role) and volunteer opportunities
Our Company:
Conagra Brands is one of North America's leading branded food companies. We have a rich heritage of making great food, and a team that’s passionate about innovation and growth. Conagra offers choices for every occasion through iconic brands, such as Birds Eye®, Marie Callender's®, Banquet®, Healthy Choice®, Slim Jim®, Reddi-wip®, and Vlasic®, and emerging brands, including Angie's® BOOMCHICKAPOP®, Duke's®, Earth Balance®, Gardein®, and Frontera®.
We pride ourselves on having the most impactful, energized and inclusive culture in the food industry. For more information, visit www.conagrabrands.com.
Conagra Brands is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law.