Seasonal Microbiology Technician

Position Title: Seasonal Microbiology Technician

Reports to: Production Manager

Department: Quality Control

Classification: Seasonal, Hourly (Non-Exempt)

Pay: $20.75 - 21.50 per hour. Effective July 1st pay will increase to $21.50 - $22.50 per hour.

Stanislaus Mission

To attract quality-oriented restaurateurs with consistently superior tomatoes and olive oil, keep them through legendary service, and invest in talented people who share our dedication to customer success.

The Company

Stanislaus Food Products is a nationally recognized, family-owned company known for crafting the finest Italian-style tomatoes and sauces for top-quality Italian restaurants and pizzerias.

If you take pride in the quality of your work and prefer working on a team of talented individuals who share your passion for excellence, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity! This is a seasonal, full-time position located on-site at our Modesto Cannery.

The Seasonal Microbiology Technician is responsible for supporting laboratory and quality processes within a fast-paced production environment. This position requires strong attention to detail, adaptability, and the ability to manage priorities while contributing to both individual and team objectives. This role will be expected to work at least 6 days a week during our Fresh-pack Season from mid-July to late September. Our Cannery runs 24/7 so flexibility to work any shift (Days, Swing or Graveyard) is required.

This position will be primarily responsible for:

• Collecting production samples from various locations throughout our facility.
• Preparing and enriching samples to monitor and evaluate microbial growth.
• Performing Gram staining and using microscopy to classify and analyze bacteria.
• Conducting bacterial identification following established laboratory procedures.
• Maintaining laboratory supplies and ensure the lab is properly stocked.
• Documenting and reporting daily laboratory results, including microbial growth and key observations.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively.
• Flexibility to work varying schedules and extended hours as needed.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

Physical Requirements:

Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; some stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and frequent fine finger dexterity. Generally, the job requires the following percentages of time committed to physical activity: 25% or more sitting, 50% or more walking, and 50% or more standing. The job is performed under occasional temperature variations and in an food production environment. Unrestricted visual and audio abilities are required for the safety of all employees. The ability to lift up to 45 lbs. is required.

Wellbeing: 

In addition to our solid track record as a stable, growing employer, we offer a variety of different benefits:  

• Social Wellness – Work Experience, Company Holidays, California Sick Time, and Federal and State Leave of Absences.
• Emotional Wellness – Dedicated People Operations Department - our Leaders have an Open Door Policy.  
• Financial Wellness – Bi-Weekly Pay.
• Nutrition Wellness – Access to best-in-class tomato sauce and olive oil products.