Microbiologist

About the Role

Join MBRF, a leading global food company that touches the lives of thousands of families worldwide by delivering quality and innovation. This role is centered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the safety and quality of food products.

Key Responsibilities

• Collect, prepare, and analyze samples as per approved sampling protocols, laboratory procedures, ISO standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct microbiological testing on finished goods, raw materials, ingredients, water, surfaces, air, and rework samples, ensuring thorough traceability throughout each step.
• Review and interpret lab results against set benchmarks, identify any deviations, and communicate findings effectively to Quality Assurance and relevant teams.
• Generate and approve accurate laboratory reports; maintain detailed testing records and provide analytical insights and trend analyses to aid business decisions.
• Manage lab testing processes to deliver precise and timely outcomes, assisting in investigating product or process quality concerns.
• Maintain laboratory documentation and traceability using systems such as LIMS and SAP.
• Support validation, proficiency testing, external laboratory collaborations, and technical audits.
• Collaborate closely with Production, Quality Assurance, R&D, and other stakeholders to back new product launches, supplier approvals, and quality initiatives.
• Drive continuous enhancements in laboratory quality systems aligning with ISO 17025, Good Laboratory Practices, and company policies.
• Ensure lab equipment is properly calibrated, maintained, and functioning efficiently; manage supplies including chemicals, consumables, and media.
• Foster a safe, clean, and compliant laboratory environment adhering to health, safety, environment, food safety, and food defense standards.
• Contribute to the creation of new methodologies, technologies, and process improvements; provide technical guidance and training when required.

Candidate Profile

• Possess a Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Food Technology, Veterinary Sciences, or related disciplines.
• Have at least 5 years of relevant experience in microbiology, laboratory operations, or food quality.
• Demonstrate solid understanding of ISO 17025 and laboratory quality management systems.
• Proficient in English at business level; knowledge of Arabic is advantageous, Portuguese is a plus.
• Experience utilizing laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and enterprise software such as SAP.
• Currently based in Jeddah or open to relocating there.

Essential Competencies

• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional attention to detail ensuring adherence to quality and food safety protocols.
• Well-developed organizational, planning, and time management skills.
• Capacity for collaboration and effective stakeholder management.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Proactive, flexible, and dedicated to continuous improvement.
• Initiative-taking, research-oriented with aptitude for knowledge sharing.

What MBRF Offers

• Opportunity to work in a global, collaborative, and dynamic environment.
• A strong corporate culture focused on customers, employees, and community.
• Career growth opportunities across vertical, horizontal, and cross-functional dimensions.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.