Job Summary

As a Microbiologist in the Microbiology Laboratory of the Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC), you will support and perform routine microbiological assays on commercial animal feed, fertilizer and seed products. The successful candidate will have in-depth knowledge of lab procedures and understand the importance of maintaining a clean workspace by following all lab regulations for health and safety. In this role, you will perform routine or specialized procedures/tests of animal feed samples for microbial counts, antibiotic concentration determination, and pathogen detection. You will also participate in section and laboratory team environment to solve problems, distribute information and work toward continual process improvement.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Setting up laboratory microbiological tests which include retrieving microbiological samples and preparing them for testing as appropriate
• Maintaining control bacteria and assay standards
• Assessing whether test results meet laboratory standards, documenting any quality issues, and ensuring waste materials are properly discarded
• Reviewing and reporting the results of microbiological analyses in a timely manner
• Identifying and communicating results that may require further investigation or discussion with the supervisor
• Upkeep of the laboratory including managing lab inventory, preparing and cleaning lab glassware and instruments, ensuring all work areas are clean
• Lab inventory including checking supplies, requesting orders, and organizing laboratory documents

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or biology or related field is required
• 6 months of relevant work within a research laboratory (relevant UG and Grad student work is accepted)
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered. (Associate's + 2.5 years of experience)
• Excellent aseptic technique
• General laboratory technique
• Skills of pipetting, making solutions, media, operation autoclave
• Team worker, time management and inventory management skills 
• Attention to detail
• Recordkeeping and tracking
• Ability to read and follow procedures
• Skills in Microsoft Word and Excel

What We'd Like You to Know:

• A Microbiology laboratory is not a proper place to work for people who have immune system disorders (Autoimmune diseases) or compromised immune systems since microorganisms, especially pathogens in the lab may be considered as immunogens triggering a reaction for sensitive immune systems.  
• Learn more about Purdue’s benefits summary
• Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A Background Check is required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contributions Waiting Period

Career Stream

Professional 1

Pay Band S055
Link to Purdue University's compensation guidelines: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/mngcareer/compguidelines/index.php
Job Code #20003621
Link to Career Path Maker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/

*Effective August 1, Purdue implemented a new background screen policy: any internal transfer will receive a new background screen if one has not been run within the last year.

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

EO 

Purdue University is an EO/EA University.