QC Microbiology Shift Lead

We’re on a journey to Grow the Future of Materials. How? By unlocking the unique properties of mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms. Our patented technology, Fine Mycelium™, unleashes a new class of materials crafted from nature, engineered for performance, and built for a resilient future.We’re seeking passionate learners to join us in pioneering a materials revolution and creating an epic place to work.

MycoWorks offers competitive equity and benefits programs to support the health, well-being, and financial empowerment of all our employees.We root our relationships with our partners and one another in our core values: Be Mycelial, Cultivate Quality, and Grow the Future, and we're committed to building a diverse team and an inclusive environment where all employees belong. Women, gender expansive individuals, people of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and LGBTQ+ candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Job Summary

MycoWorks is seeking a QC Microbiology Shift Lead to support and lead the QC Microbiology shift at our manufacturing site in Union, SC. This position is onsite, and the selected candidate will work under the direction of our Site Microbiologist, overseeing the work of QC Microbiology Technicians. 

This role includes hands-on testing and sample preparation, managing shift-specific QC microbiology operations, and ensuring team alignment with quality standards.  The goal will be to ensure the compliance of the critical quality parameters for the manufacturing of biomaterials - Fine Mycelium. 

Responsibilities: 

• Supervise QC Microbiology Technicians on shift, providing guidance on testing protocols and overseeing daily workload distribution.
• Conduct and oversee sample preparation and testing for incoming materials, in-process samples, and environmental monitoring (e.g., air particles, airborne contaminants, and surface samples) to maintain compliance with quality parameters for Fine Mycelium production.
• Ensure quality control protocols are strictly followed, including bioburden testing and environmental monitoring from internal and external sources.
• Perform and guide technicians in aseptic techniques and other microbiology procedures.
• Oversee the calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of microbiology lab equipment, ensuring all tools are functional and accurate.
• Review and compile test data, maintaining detailed records and supporting the analysis and reporting of quality findings.
• Communicate regularly with internal stakeholders, providing shift updates, summaries of results, and resolving quality-related queries.
• Support SOP documentation, equipment operating protocols, and other necessary technical documentation related to quality assurance.
• Manage inventory for media, reagents, and other expendable supplies, coordinating with the shift team to maintain testing resources.
• Ensure the microbiology lab is maintained in a clean, safe, and compliant manner, adhering to all safety and hygiene protocols.
• Lead quality monitoring activities, including incubator checks, media control testing, and control organism inoculation.
• Step in to perform daily QC tasks, including sample preparation, testing, and environmental monitoring, as needed to cover team absences or scheduled vacations, ensuring continuity and compliance with quality requirements.
• Participate actively in plant audits and internal inspections, leading the team to support compliance goals.
• Conduct and facilitate team training, focusing on both technical competencies and quality standards.
• Perform all activities in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner.
• Responsible for the safety of oneself and others working within their area.
• This role requires wearing a tight-fitting respirator and compliance with MycoWorks’ facial hair and fit testing policies.

Qualifications:

• 2+ years of experience in a laboratory role within the food, consumer products, biotechnology, or similar industry, with experience in a GMP and environmental monitoring program.
• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, or a related field.
• Prior experience supervising or leading a small team in a laboratory or manufacturing setting is preferred.
• Demonstrated integrity and commitment to quality standards.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; capable of conveying technical details clearly to team members and other departments.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive, results-oriented approach.
• Ability to manage shift operations independently, ensuring timely completion of deliverables.
• Working knowledge of data analysis, statistical methods, and data reporting.
• Must be able to