Research Associate I

Certified Group is a leading North American provider of laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services. The Certified Group of companies includes Food Safety Net Services (FSNS), Certified Laboratories, EAS Consulting Group, and Labstat International Inc. The Certified Group provides analytical testing and regulatory guidance services in the food & beverage, dietary supplements & NHP, cosmetics, OTC, personal care, tobacco, cannabis, nicotine, and hemp industries.

Job Summary: The Research Associate conducts testing procedures for project-based studies, such as shelf-life studies, inoculated challenge studies, process validation studies, etc., as described in client proposal agreements. In addition, the Research Associate supports the work of other contract research laboratory personnel. The Research Associate also has elevated responsibility with regard to performing laboratory work that requires a higher level of technical expertise, including being a resource for operation of specialized instrumentation and for performing methods that are technically challenging.

Essential Function:

• Conducts all testing procedures in accordance with standard operating procedure and quality guidelines.
• Accurately generates and transcribes pertinent data.
• Interacts well with and serves as a training and troubleshooting resource to other department members.
• Manages time and resources of their work and assists others in maximizing overall operational efficiency.
• Can be relied upon to accurately execute scheduled tasks and assignments independently.
• Proactively seeks ways to improve processes and better utilize departmental resources.
• Acts as a resource for operation of specialized instrumentation and for obtaining thorough training on such instrumentation from the manufacturer.
• Acts as a resource for execution of technically challenging methods that require higher levels of training. Basic understanding of the scientific fundamentals of each method.

Position Objectives:

• Execute all pertinent scheduled preparation and testing procedures as described in project proposals.
• Maintain meticulous records of procedures performed related to contract research studies.
• Demonstrate proficiency in all testing procedures as assigned, including recording and maintaining accurate and timely results based on the analyses performed.
• Complete personal training assignments as directed and oversee the completion of training for others as assigned.
• Learn new techniques and technologies as needed to complete project assignments.
• Identify and communicate anomalous results and/or incongruent data sets with Department Manager/Supervisor.
• Use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to resolve project or analysis related issues.
• Perform appropriate quality control tasks pertinent to the department including proper documentation and record keeping, in compliance with accreditation bodies.
• Perform maintenance of laboratory equipment and instruments, including inspection, calibration, cleaning & sanitization, as directed.
• Participate in special projects as assigned by the Department Manager/Supervisor.
• Provide support or assistance within the department as directed, and work effectively with other departments.
• Maintain a clean and sanitized laboratory work environment.
• Collaborate in study design and planning discussions
• Prepare data tables as assigned by scientists and coordinators.
• Ability to execute a wide range of contract research study types (e.g. process validation studies, method validation studies, cooking instruction validation studies, challenge studies, shelf-life studies, etc.).

Position Requirements:

• B.S., preferably in Biology/Microbiology, and appropriate industry specific experience.
• 2-5 years relevant laboratory experience or food production/testing environment experience.
• Good conceptual basis in microbiology with proven ability to perform basic and advanced microbiology and molecular techniques.
• Competence with effectively delivering and receiving oral or written communication.
• Familiarity with FDA BAM, USDA MLG, CMMEF, APHA, and AOAC methodology.
• Basic computer skills required.
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite applications, proficient with MS Excel.
• LIMS experience preferable.
• Manual dexterity.
• Ability to distinguish colors, preferred.
• Ability to stand for prolonged periods.
• Ability to lift 25 lbs.

Benefits:

• Progressive 401k Retirement Savings Plan
• Employer Paid Short- Term and Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance
• Group Medical
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Dental
• Paid Holidays and Time Off

Certified Group values diversity in its workforce. The company is firmly committed to a policy of Equal Opportunity and will administer its policies in a manner that treats each employee and applicant for employment on the basis of merit. Certified Group will take affirmative action to seek out qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, handicap, or veteran status.