Microbiologist (Entry-Level, Pharma Industry)

Microbiologist

Job Description

This entry-level Microbiologist role focuses on environmental monitoring and microbiology testing in a laboratory and production setting. You will support lab operations by collecting samples on the production floor, performing sample testing, and assisting with data review, reporting, and validation. This position offers an excellent opportunity for recent graduates to gain hands-on laboratory experience and apply their academic microbiology or biology coursework in a professional environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine environmental monitoring activities in laboratory and production areas in accordance with established procedures.
• Collect samples from the production floor and other designated areas for microbiological testing.
• Conduct microbiology testing and analyses using appropriate aseptic techniques and microbiology laboratory methods.
• Support lab assistants with day-to-day laboratory activities and workflow.
• Prepare, handle, and sterilize materials, equipment, and media required for microbiological testing.
• Document all laboratory activities, observations, and results accurately and in a timely manner.
• Gather, compile, and generate reports based on test results and environmental monitoring data.
• Review and validate data to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with internal standards and procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory work area in line with laboratory best practices.
• Communicate effectively with team members regarding test results, issues, and laboratory needs.

Essential Skills

• Foundational knowledge of microbiology principles and techniques.
• Experience with or academic exposure to environmental monitoring in a laboratory or controlled environment.
• Proficiency in aseptic technique for handling samples and performing microbiological tests.
• Ability to work effectively in a microbiology laboratory setting, including safe handling of samples and materials.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent documentation skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Solid organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, samples, and reports.
• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology or Biology.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Recent academic coursework in microbiology, biology, or related laboratory sciences, with hands-on lab participation.
• Understanding of sterilization practices and microbial control concepts.
• Familiarity with environmental monitoring programs and related documentation.
• Interest in gaining lab exposure and building a career in microbiology or quality-related roles.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and adhere to laboratory protocols.

Work Environment

This is a first-shift, on-site laboratory role with typical hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You will work in a microbiology laboratory and regularly enter production areas to collect environmental samples. The environment involves routine use of microbiology laboratory equipment and materials, including sterilization processes and aseptic techniques. This is a contract position with the possibility of extension, offering structured lab experience and exposure to professional microbiology and environmental monitoring practices in a collaborative team setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Minneapolis, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $27.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Minneapolis,MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 18, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.