Microbiologist (Food Processing Plant)

Job Description Microbiologist (Food Processing Plant)

Job Title: Microbiologist

Department: Quality Control (QC) / Quality Assurance (QA)

Company: Wardwizard Foods & Beverages Ltd.

Location: POR, Vadodara, Gujarat

Employment Type: Full-time

Reports To: QC Incharge / QA Manager / Plant Head

Job Purpose:

The Microbiologist will be responsible for microbiological testing and validation of raw materials, in-process samples, finished goods, and environmental hygiene. The role ensures compliance with FSSAI, HACCP, GMP, ISO, and food safety standards. The Microbiologist plays a key role in monitoring hygiene, food safety, bacterial control, and sterility in Ready-to-Eat (RTE) and frozen food manufacturing operations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Microbiological Testing & Analysis

• Perform routine microbiological tests on:

Raw materials (vegetables, dairy, spices, etc.)

Water samples (RO, steam condensate, handwash water)

In-process samples (during preparation, cooking, cooling)

Finished goods (RTE pouches, frozen snacks, gravies, curries, etc.)

• Conduct microbial analysis tests such as:

TPC (Total Plate Count)

Yeast & Mold count

Pathogen monitoring based on FSSAI standards

• Verify sterility of retort-processed products where applicable.

2. Environmental Monitoring & Hygiene Control

• Conduct environmental and surface swab testing:

Work tables, cutting tools, equipment

Air plates for monitoring microorganisms

• Monitor sanitation effectiveness of production areas & cold rooms.
• Validate hand hygiene practices of preparation and packing teams.

3. Retort & Food Safety Validation

• Work closely with Retort Operator and QC Incharge for:

Sterility validation of retort batches

Temperature & pressure monitoring records

Verification of CCPs (Critical Control Points)

4. Documentation & Record Keeping

• Maintain microbiology laboratory records and test reports.
• Prepare COA (Certificate of Analysis) for finished products.
• Maintain media preparation logs, equipment calibration logs, and sanitation validation reports.
• Ensure documentation compliance as per FSSAI, HACCP, GMP, ISO 22000.

5. Lab Operations & Equipment Handling

• Handle & maintain laboratory equipment and instruments such as:

Laminar Air Flow (LAF)

Autoclave

Incubator

Colony counter

pH meter, Microscope

• Prepare culture media and maintain stock of reagents and consumables.

6. Corrective & Preventive Action (CAPA)

• Identify deviations and contamination sources.
• Recommend corrective actions to maintain consistent product hygiene.
• Train production staff on personal hygiene and sanitation protocols.

Skills & Competencies Required:

• Strong knowledge of microbiological testing methods and food safety standards.
• Experience in handling microbial cultures, autoclaving, serial dilution, and plating.
• Good analytical skills with attention to detail.
• Familiarity with food safety norms: FSSAI, HACCP, GMP, ISO 22000.
• Ability to maintain strict laboratory hygiene and documentation discipline.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelors / Master’s degree in:

Microbiology / Food Microbiology / Biotechnology / Food Technology

• 2–6 years of experience in QC microbiology in a food manufacturing setup.

Experience in RTE / Frozen Foods / FMCG / Dairy / Beverages is preferred.