Analytical Laboratory Supervisor/Microbiologist

Bigelow Tea is the number one specialty tea company in the United States. We are a family-owned and operated business and a Certified B Corporation. Being a certified B Corp officially recognizes a commitment that has been part of the company’s DNA since it was founded 80 years ago. Our purpose has always been about much more than making profits. We are committed to good citizenship, ethical business practices, accountability, transparency, protecting the environment, sustainability and supporting our communities. We pride ourselves in caring about each and every one of our employees. We have a long-term outlook and are constantly working to create an environment that inspires people to make positive contributions every day. Bigelow is currently looking for a select, talented individual, that shares our values, to join our growing team.

MISSION STATEMENT- TEA DIVISION

To drive business growth by developing innovative blends, exploring new technologies and improving manufacturing efficiencies while remaining critically focused on quality, safety and healthy ingredients. Maintain long-term relationships and identify alternate suppliers to ensure sustainable sourcing while balancing the financial needs of the business.

SUMMARY

The role of Analytical Laboratory Supervisor is to oversee the day to day operation of the Magner Analytical Laboratory and to assess and mitigate risks associated with microbiological hazards for Bigelow products. This position will be a member of the Food Safety and Quality teams and be the subject matter expert on microbial concerns associated with incoming ingredients, blending, packaging, and co-manufacturing operations. The Analytical Laboratory Supervisor will recommend appropriate assessment activities based on risk and adhere to protocols in compliance with food safety and quality plans and Safe Quality Food policies and procedures. Under the direction of the Corporate Food Safety and Quality Manager, this position will work collaboratively with key stakeholders including Ingredient Procurement, R&D, Blending, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Consumer Services, and Food Safety and Quality teams.

JOB DESCRIPTION

TEAM ALIGNMENT, LEADERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT

• Supervise, train, and assist in recruiting and selecting analytical laboratory staff. Conduct proficiency testing on critical functions including sensory and physical properties. Ensure staff and sensory panels have sufficient depth to provide timely evaluations.
• Provide support and training to plant teams and warehouses on sample collection.
• Be an active member of the FSQ Teams in evaluating microbial risks associated with incoming ingredients and manufacturing processes including co-manufactured items.
• Provide training and support to the Blending team on sanitation and other food safety and quality programs in collaboration with Fairfield site leadership team.
• Manage and maintain lab budget.

MONITORING & ANALYZING

• Assist in the daily set up and clean-up of start-up, raw ingredients, buying season and etc. when needed.
• Participate in the tasting panel of all R.C. Bigelow products. (Example: start-up, inbound ingredients, tea blends, consumer complaints, shelf life and packaging studies, etc.)
• Perform and assess environmental monitoring of tea blending and production areas.

• Work with Laboratory Technicians and FSQ Data Analyst to assess ingredients and products for conformance to specification. Recommend sampling plans including collection and retention based on required tests and risk.

• Manage and coordinate the needs for outside lab testing. Maintain a matrix of outside laboratory capabilities, sample sizes, test codes, costs and contact information.

• Isolate and identify contaminants related to consumer complaints for off flavors. Initiate plant investigation and follow up if mishandling of ingredients or processes/procedures have occurred.

• Isolate and identify contaminants found in any raw materials or finished products.
• Prepare customer Certificates of Conformance as required.

TRACKING & REPORTING

• Ensure logs for routine and special testing are meticulously maintained. Prepare regular reports on laboratory activities.
• Manage the maintenance of standard procedures for Analytical testing of all raw ingredients and products produced by R. C. Bigelow, and co-packed items. Report findings for inconsistencies or nonconformance to manager, supplier, and/or site as needed.
• Coordinate all storage studies for product or material qualifications. Report to qualification team monthly.
• Coordinate with R&D and FSQ on developing ingredient and product specifications. Coordinate with FSQ Data Analyst in preparing ingredient supplier ‘report cards.’

AUDITING & IMPROVING

• Audit Analytical Laboratory practices to ensure analytical testing is being performed in accordance with procedure and best practices. Review internal testing procedures to ensure consistency of data collected. Identify analytical gaps and develop new test methods and procedures as needed.
• Analyze test data and recommend appropriate test frequency for both internal testing and external testing including supplier CoA and Bigelow CoA verification activities.

• Keep abreast of any new procedures that could be a benefit to R.C. Bigelow.

STRATEGIC THINKING AND GOAL DEVELOPMENT

The person in this role must think strategically, proposing solutions which take into consideration challenges with sourcing and manufacturing yet uphold Bigelow’s commitment to food safety and quality.

SKILLS REQUIRED

• Good knowledge of testing methods, interpretation and analysis of quality testing results including sensory analysis.
• Creative and innovative thinker with strong analytical skills and keen attention to detail.
• Ability to supervise, train and motivate individuals and teams.
• Strong administrative and computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, & PowerPoint.
• Excellent oral / written / interpersonal communication skills with the ability to influence others.
• Ability to self-initiate and manage multiple project tasks independently to meet business objectives.

DIRECT REPORTING POSITIONS

• Analytical Laboratory Technician(s)

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in a Biology, Chemistry, or related science
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in Food and Beverage or in a related industry with some supervisory experience.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• Up to 10 percent travel to other Bigelow manufacturing sites and warehouses

Bigelow Tea is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Bigelow Tea does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.

Education

Required

• Bachelors or better in Biology

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.