Amanda Abel
Environmental Monitoring Program Coordinator
Appleton
Summary
Environmental Monitoring Program Coordinator with a strong background in microbiology and food safety. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all organizational levels. Adept at training and mentoring staff, driving continuous improvement, and ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards. Recognized for strong communication skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Eager to step into a supervisory role to lead a high-performing microbiology team, support quality and food safety objectives, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Environmental Monitoring Program Coordinator
McCain Foods
03.2023 - Current
- Monitored performance metrics closely to evaluate areas requiring intervention or adjustment, making data-informed decisions that contributed positively towards overall results
- Facilitated regular meetings with cross functional team members to discuss progress updates, address challenges, and brainstorm solutions for ongoing success
- Conducted line sanitation validations, allergen validations, and CIP validations
- Acquired state extended run approval
- Led Construction Risk Assessments
- Completed CFS Hygienic Design Certification
- Performed root cause investigations driven by environmental and finished product trending
- Investigated, led trials, and acquired approval for a new produce cleaning process
- Identified risks and developed mitigation plans with a proactive mindset
- Conducted internal GMP inspections
- Provided Environmental Monitoring Training
- Participated in the planning for hygienic zoning
- Led food safety day and other activities to promote a stronger food safety culture
- Completed International HACCP Alliance accredited Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) course
- Completed Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) course
- Completed BRCS internal auditor training
Microbiology Lab Technician
McCain Foods
02.2016 - 03.2023
- Maintained accurate records of test results, observations, and data in compliance with laboratory protocols
- Followed, reviewed, and updated microbiology standard operating procedures (SOPs)
- Followed standard operating procedures (SOPs) for sample handling, processing, storage, and disposal
- Ensured compliance with safety regulations by adhering to proper handling techniques for hazardous materials
- Calibrated laboratory equipment regularly to maintain accuracy of measurements
- Trained new technicians on laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and quality assurance practices
- Participated in proficiency testing programs to ensure accuracy of test results
- Maintained a clean and organized laboratory workspace to ensure accurate and efficient work
- Assisted in the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for new assays or techniques
- Prepared and sterilized culture media, reagents, and equipment for microbiological analysis
- Performed various laboratory testing methods for food testing such as: TPC, Coliform, E. coli, Yeast, Mold, S. aureus, Listeria, Salmonella, Enterobacteriaceae, and VIDAS
Laboratory Technician II
Appvion-Encapsys
04.2014 - 10.2016
- Performed laboratory tests and experiments to support research and development projects
- Prepared chemical solutions, reagents, and samples for analysis
- Reduced errors in data entry by meticulously reviewing and validating information before submission.
- Contributed to a safe working environment by consistently following established safety procedures and guidelines within the lab setting.
- Analyzed data using various techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and titration
- Interpreted test results and prepared reports summarizing findings for review by senior scientists
- Managed inventory of chemicals, supplies, and equipment to ensure availability for testing procedures
- Maintained accurate records of experiments, observations, procedures performed, and results obtained
- Assisted in the development of new analytical methods or modifications of existing methods
- Troubleshot instrumentation issues during testing procedures
- Collected, prepared, and analyzed samples using various laboratory techniques and equipment
- Calibrated and maintained laboratory instruments to ensure accuracy and reliability of test results
- Conducted quality control checks on laboratory equipment to ensure proper functioning
- Maintained documentation on tests performed in lab.
- Performed routine lab and department maintenance to keep area clean and orderly.
Education
Associate's Degree - Applied Science
Fox Valley Technical College
Appleton, WI 01.2010 - 12.2015
Skills
- Writing Skills
- Research & Development
- Laboratory Procedures
- Aseptic Technique
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microbiology
- Pathogen Testing
- Ability to Spot Inconsistencies in Data Quickly
- Microsoft Office - Including Access and Excel Data Entry and Spreadsheets
- Researching New Test Methods
- Mathematics
- SAP
- Micro ID
- CGMP
- VIDAS
- CEM
- Quality Assurance
- ELISA
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Access
- Cell Culture
- Developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and Reviewing Existing Procedures
- Chromatography
- Ability to Communicate Professionally in Both Written and Oral Communications
- Gas Chromatography
- PCR
- Chemistry
- API Proficiency
- Microsoft Excel
- Organizational Skills
- Project Management
- LGC
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- GC
- High-Performance Liquid Chromatography
- Food Safety
- Laboratory Experience
- Data Entry
- DSC
- 3M Petrifilm
Timeline
Environmental Monitoring Program Coordinator
McCain Foods
03.2023 - Current
Microbiology Lab Technician
McCain Foods
02.2016 - 03.2023
Laboratory Technician II
Appvion-Encapsys
04.2014 - 10.2016
Associate's Degree - Applied Science
Fox Valley Technical College
01.2010 - 12.2015
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