• Senior Director of Laboratory Services

    Perdue Farms, Inc. (Salisbury, MD)


    Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. **That's Perdue.**

    Summary

    The Director of Laboratory Services is accountable for the planning, directing and coordinating of all microbiological and other food-based analysis such as organoleptic and food chemistry programs within lab services at Perdue Foods. This position is accountable for setting the strategic vision for lab services to maximize value and the integrity of the information it-provides to the business.

     

    The salary range for this position is $143,000.00 - $215,000.00 per year, based on experience and qualifications with annual bonus available (variable depending on performance).

     

    In addition to the base salary, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vison, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.

    Principal and Essential Duties & Responsibilities

    + Establish and oversee testing programs and associated standards related to the execution of each activity: laboratory practice efficiencies, standardization, quality, productivity, performance standards and USDA and Stated regulatory compliance.

    + Support the safe and wholesome production of products by providing analytical services with both the live and operations side of the business. Microbiological, Organoleptic, Electrical Stimulation, Woody Breast etc.

    + Maintains strict compliance with USDA regulations and laboratory accreditations. Maintains accurate records of accreditation for second- or third-party auditing purposes.

    + Ensure Good Laboratory Practices with established quality, safety, technician proficiency and preventative maintenance and monitoring programs for Food Safety, Quality and Animal health testing programs.

    + Operate laboratory within prescribed annual budget while continually seeking for ways to optimize both cost and data relevancy. Directly manages salaried staff and directs firm leadership of Lab Safety issues, proactively seeking preventive methods for the safety of the lab staff.

    + Provide scientific leadership and direction to plants and associated teams, including onsite pathogen interventions review and design of experiments to prove and define needs or theories as directed.

    + Actively participates within Industry and Scientific communities to ensure cutting edge relevance with our testing programs and process. Maintains relevance and accuracy of written SOP’s and policies for the lab within the company FSQA Manual. Conducts at minimum an annual audit of all lab written SOP’s.

    + Reviews and distributes company reports that communicates test results, study findings, including recommendations to improve pathogen control, microbial quality, and product shelf-life.

    + Provides as requested corporate memos concerning product microbial quality, shelf-life, pathogen control and other science-based needs for customers, consumers, regulators, and others as directed.

    + Develops and conducts microbial quality training for lab personnel as well as designing training for all company personnel to enhance understanding and knowledge.

     

    Minimum Education and Experience

     

    Masters Degree in Food Science, Microbiology or related field and 15+ years of Laboratory Management.

     

    Environmental Factors and Physical Requirements

     

    Work environment is a chemistry lab. Position requires person to stand several hours daily and wear appropriate safety gear to handle potentially hazardous chemicals. Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

     

    _Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status._