Job Location: Stuarts Draft, VA

Summary:

The Hershey Company Stuarts Draft plant is a Non-Union plant producing products such as Reese’s Pieces, Reese Cups, Reese Shapes, Reese Bars, Mr. Goodbar, Mounds, Almond Joy, NutRageous, Oh Henry, FastBreak, Whatchamacallit, Baking Chips, etc. in a high-speed complex environment.

This position is responsible for microbiological media preparation & sample analyses. Successful candidate will work under general supervision to prepare all the microbiological media needed for in-house testing and as needed, to perform microbiological tests which require standard procedures and moderately complex instrumentation. Responsibilities include receiving routine food microbiology samples; preparation and analyses; preparation & maintenance of the media inventory and quality control.

Weekend work is required at least 1x per month

Responsibilities:

• Receive and log customer samples using Lab Information Management systems (LIMS) for microbiological analyses of ingredients, finished product, and environmental swabs
• Process and communicate accurate microbiological analyses and data
• Prepare and maintain controls and documentation of all microbiological media & reagents for in-house testing purposes
• Maintain an inventory and well stocked of prepared and commercially available microbiological media formats to support testing
• Coordinate the destruction of samples after results entry
• Attend assigned training & learning projects including proficiency testing
• Maintain sample library
• Inventory and purchase all lab supplies
• Sustain ISO requirements
• Analytical Testing
• Maintenance and calibration of Analytical equipment
• Water testing
• Compressed Air testing
• Coordinate required corporate analytical samples and studies

Minimum knowledge, skills and abilities required to successfully perform major duties/responsibilities:

• Working knowledge and comfort in aseptic technique, microbiological test methods, microbiological media, and autoclave usage
• Ability to follow standard procedures and methods
• Ability to work independently and to interact with Plant QA and Corporate Micro Research Services personnel
• Proficiency in computer programs / software such as Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, Power Point, LIMS system,
• Knowledge of regulatory and quality system requirements - HACCP, ISO, SQF, Good Manufacturing Process (GMP), Good laboratory practices (GLP), etc.
• Ability to lift 15-25 pounds.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret data

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

• B.S. in Food Science, Microbiology or related field required
• Previous work experience in a microbiology laboratory is preferred

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The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The policy of The Hershey Company is to extend opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual's race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, citizenship status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other categories protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority/Female/Disabled/Protected Veterans

If you require a reasonable accommodation as part of the application process, please contact the HR Service Center (askhr@hersheys.com).