Manager- Microbiology

MAJOR ROLE:

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Microbiology Department

1. Laboratory Management

• Oversee daily operations, including staff management, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Ensure all laboratory activities comply with ISO 17025:2017 and relevant regulations.
• Develop and implement laboratory policies, procedures, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to maintain operational efficiency.

2. Quality Assurance and Compliance

• Maintain and enhance the laboratorys ISO 17025:2017 accreditation by ensuring compliance with management and technical requirements.
• Ensure adherence to food safety regulations, such as those from the FSSAI, EIC & APEDA & others.
• Implement and maintain a Quality Management System (QMS) per ISO 17025:2017 standards.
• Conduct internal audits, manage non-conformances, and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
• Coordinate external audits and assessments by accreditation bodies and customers.

3. Technical Oversight

• Provide technical leadership for food testing methodologies for microbiological testing.
• Ensure the validity, reliability, and accuracy of test results.
• Stay updated on advancements in food testing technologies and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee method validation, proficiency testing, and metrological traceability.
• Reviewing and verifying raw data, as well as authorization of Test-Reports.

4. Personnel Management

• Recruit, train, and develop laboratory staff to ensure competency in their roles.
• Conduct performance evaluations and support continuous professional development.
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure staff are trained in ISO 17025:2017 requirements and laboratory safety protocols.

5. Stakeholder Communication

• Liaise with clients, regulatory bodies, and accreditation bodies to meet expectations.
• Prepare and present reports on laboratory performance, compliance, and test results.
• Represent the laboratory in meetings, conferences, and industry forums.

6. Budget and Resource Management

• Manage the laboratory budget, including equipment procurement, maintenance, and calibration.
• Ensure efficient resource use to meet operational needs while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
• Plan and implement upgrades to laboratory infrastructure and technology.

7. Risk Management

• Identify and mitigate risks related to laboratory operations, such as contamination or equipment failures.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of food samples and hazardous materials.

Skills and Competencies

• Leadership and Team Management:

  Ability to lead and motivate a diverse team.

• Quality Management:

  Proficiency in implementing and maintaining ISO 17025:2017-compliant quality systems.

• Technical Expertise:

  Deep knowledge of microbiological food testing techniques.

• Regulatory Compliance:

  Familiarity with food safety standards (e.g., FDA, FSSAI, Codex Alimentarius).

• Communication:

  Excellent verbal and written skills for client and regulatory interactions.

• Problem-Solving:

  Strong analytical skills to address operational and technical challenges.

• Project Management:

  Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

• Software Proficiency:

  Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and relevant software.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines.
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of laboratory safety and quality.
• Dedication to fostering continuous improvement and innovation.