Microbiology Job at Sargento Foods USA
Looking for a microbiology job in the USA? Sargento Foods is hiring a Microbiology Specialist at its Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, facility. This role is an exciting job opportunity for life science graduates who want hands-on experience in quality assurance, food safety, and laboratory operations. Perfect for candidates seeking jobs in the USA that combine microbiological testing with continuous improvement projects in a leading branded food company.
About Sargento Foods
Founded over 70 years ago, Sargento Foods is a family-owned leader in cheese and natural food products. Based in Plymouth, Wisconsin, Sargento employs over 2,400 people and is known globally for quality, innovation, and a culture that values its employees. Joining Sargento provides a biological science job with real impact in food safety and quality.
Job Details:
- Job Title: Microbiology Specialist
- Company: Sargento Foods Inc.
- Location: Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, United States
- Category: Compliance / Quality / Governance
- Job ID: MICRO004050
- Job Type: Full-Time
Position Overview
The Microbiology Specialist supports the efficient operation of the Corporate Microbiology Laboratory located at the Sargento Foods Elkhart Lake facility. The role involves conducting basic microbiological and environmental pathogen testing and supporting the consolidation of microbiological testing from all plant locations into the Corporate Microbiology Laboratory.
What does the Microbiology Job Role Do?
- Support efficient operations of the Corporate Microbiology Laboratory at the Elkhart Lake facility
- Conduct basic microbiology and environmental pathogen testing
- Assist with consolidating microbiological testing from all plant locations into the Corporate Microbiology Laboratory
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure Sargento Foods Inc. products and facilities meet safety, quality, and legal standards through monitoring and execution of QA policies, including accurate record-keeping
- Conduct microbiological testing and verify critical process parameters in compliance with SOPs and specifications
- Serve as a technical resource to cross-functional departments, applying knowledge of regulatory requirements and customer expectations
- Lead specific laboratory programs and manage projects with minimal supervision
- Apply quality tools and approaches, including root cause analysis, Pareto charting, process mapping, and cause-and-effect analysis
- Collect, evaluate, trend, and analyze data; prepare reports documenting deviations from existing programs
- Assist in the development, communication, and training of Quality and Food Safety Systems Programs and SOPs
- Perform administrative duties, maintain a clean work environment, coordinate courier services, and support student work-based learning opportunities
Education & Experience
- Associate degree required
- Bachelor’s degree in a biological science with college-level microbiology coursework strongly preferred
- 1–3 years of experience in an approved laboratory or QA environment required
- Valid driver’s license required for travel between Sargento facilities for sample collection
- PCQI certification preferred
Benefits of a Microbiology Job
- Comprehensive medical coverage, including fertility and adoption benefits, dental, and vision insurance
- Onsite Health & Wellness Center
- Employer 401(k) contribution in the top 1% nationally
- Tuition Assistance
- Access to the Employee Store
