Microbiology Lab Technician

Job Title: Lab Technician

Job Description

This role focuses on performing routine microbiological laboratory procedures and analyses to support safe, accurate, and reliable testing. The lab technician prepares and processes specimens, maintains and calibrates equipment, and documents all data in accordance with established procedures and safety standards. This position offers the opportunity to develop technical expertise in microbiology while contributing to high-quality analytical testing in a rapidly growing organization.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine microbiological laboratory procedures and analyses in accordance with established protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain, calibrate, clean, and verify the sterility of laboratory equipment to ensure accurate and reliable test results.
• Isolate and prepare cultures of bacteria and other microorganisms from various sample types.
• Conduct microbial analyses on samples collected from a variety of sources, following appropriate microbiological techniques.
• Prepare specimens and samples for testing, ensuring correct labeling, handling, and storage.
• Document all data, observations, and results in specified forms and systems with a high level of accuracy and completeness.
• Prepare detailed reports of laboratory results and findings for internal use and client reporting.
• Adhere to correct laboratory procedures, policies, and health and safety guidelines at all times.
• Work in full compliance with laboratory safety standards, including the proper use of personal protective equipment and safe handling of biological materials.
• Apply modern microbiological techniques, including plating and pipetting, in daily laboratory activities.
• Perform titration and other relevant analytical procedures as required.
• Support quality control and quality assurance activities by following established quality systems and documentation practices.
• Collaborate with other lab technicians and team members to meet testing timelines and workload demands.
• Manage tasks effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, handling moderate stress while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Communicate clearly with colleagues and supervisors regarding test progress, issues, and findings.

Essential Skills

• Associate or Bachelor degree in Microbiology or Biology.
• Biology and microbiology knowledge with a focus on laboratory applications.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment, microbiological procedures, and safety regulations.
• Knowledge of modern microbiological techniques, including plating and pipetting.
• Experience preparing cultures of bacteria and other microorganisms.
• Experience with titration procedures.
• Exposure to quality control and quality assurance practices in a laboratory setting.
• Strong communication and writing skills for documentation and reporting.
• Strong computer knowledge for data entry, documentation, and report preparation.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to maintain a positive attitude.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical skills.
• Ability to handle moderate stress in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Professional working proficiency in English, including the ability to read, write, and speak effectively.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• New graduates are welcome; prior laboratory coursework and practical training are valued.
• Preferred 6 months to 1 year of experience in a laboratory setting or as a microbiology laboratory technician, or in a transferable laboratory environment.
• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed procedures and standard operating protocols.
• Capability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in response to changing workloads.
• Interest in contributing to quality control and quality assurance initiatives.
• Motivation to grow professionally within a rapidly expanding laboratory organization.

Work Environment

This is a first-shift position, Monday through Friday, with flexibility required as hours may vary. You will join a collaborative laboratory team currently consisting of five lab technicians. The environment is fast-paced with a strong emphasis on safety, accuracy, and adherence to laboratory standards. You will work with modern microbiological equipment and techniques in a professional laboratory setting, contributing to analytical testing that supports safer, healthier, and more sustainable products and environments.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Warrenville, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $21.00/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 Warrenville,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 31, 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 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

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.