Plant Microbiologist

Plant Microbiologist

Responsibilities / Activities

Quality, Testing & Laboratory Systems

• Responsible for maintaining a full understanding and complying with Colgate Quality Micro Standard governing the laboratory system.
• Develop and implement microbiological sampling and testing programs for water, raw materials, WIP, environmental samples and finished goods in the facility based on Colgate Quality Standard and conform to the specifications prior to release.
• Ensure all testing and releasing is performed according to corporate methods, policy and adheres to specification. This includes the set up and administration of a laboratory quality assurance system that covers method and material qualification as well as equipment Installation Qualification / Operational Qualification / Performance Qualification, calibration & maintenance.
• Responsible for the design, implementation and administration of validation strategy for CIP, utilities (e.g., water) etc.
• Conduct raw materials and finished product releasing in S4 Hana system.

Safety & Compliance

• Develop and maintain safety documentation such as Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Risk Control (HIRARC), including keeping high-risk equipment in safe working condition and ensuring the validity of certification.
• Manage laboratory safety equipment and instructions, precautions in handling and disposing of biological materials, in accordance with local environmental regulations.
• Compliance to Colgate Biohazard Control Measure, Laboratory Safety standards and Foundational Safety Expectations.

Continuous Improvement & Investigations

• Report and lead the investigation of microbiological failures with plant operation and engineering team.
• Drive continuous improvement such as plant Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Cleaning and Sanitation (C&S) activities, Micro Vulnerability Assessment (MVA) including optimization activities for laboratory instruments, methods, and processes.
• Evaluate and track the trending tools of Micro Susceptibility Index (MSI), C&S Index (CSI) and laboratory KPI periodically. Proactively identify, develop and implement Control Point Monitoring (CPM) and review gaps based on the CSI, CPM, MSI and Process Validation.

Audits & Documentation

• Participate in internal audits and external audits (contract manufacturers & labs, suppliers, etc.).
• Support Internal/External Audits and ensure all non-conformances are adhered to in a timely manner.
• Interface with Global & Divisional Quality/Microbiology teams to provide input on programs, procedures and methods, and receive guidance & support on implementation of programs.
• Initiate change control documentation in the respective area prior to the execution of the changes that affect the quality of the products.
• Ensure lab documentation and records are managed, controlled, maintained and updated on a regular basis and in compliance with data integrity.

Team Leadership, Training & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Maintain laboratory staff by recruiting, selecting, orienting, developing and training to ensure consistent performance with right skill and competency.
• Develop and implement microbiology training for plant floor management and operators.
• Provide Micro Awareness training to Operator & MicroLab Analysts.
• Maintain the inventory of media, chemicals/reagents & other accessories required for the microbiological analysis. Monitor and control the NVO/lab spending wisely.
• Participate actively in Site C&S Team.
• Participate as plant Water Team member.

Requirements

• Possess bachelor degree or diploma in microbiology or related biological science.
• Minimum 2 years working experience in Microbiology Laboratory or Manufacturing plant QC Laboratory.
• Familiar with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.

Perks & Benefits

• Nearby public transport
• Central location