Microbiology Laboratory Analyst II

Job Title: Microbiology Laboratory Analyst IIJob Description

The Microbiology Laboratory Analyst II plays a hands-on role in performing microbiology testing, managing samples, and supporting laboratory operations in a GMP/GLP-regulated environment. This client-facing position requires a strong quality mindset, excellent documentation skills, and the ability to perform both routine and advanced microbiological assays while maintaining strict compliance with regulatory and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological testing in accordance with SOPs, GMP, GLP, USP, EP, and ISO requirements.
• Conduct bioburden testing following USP / guidelines.
• Perform endotoxin testing in alignment with USP requirements.
• Execute sterility testing according to USP standards.
• Perform antimicrobial effectiveness testing following USP methods.
• Conduct container closure integrity testing (CCIT).
• Perform environmental monitoring of cleanrooms and controlled environments.
• Conduct TOC, conductivity, and pH testing for water and utilities.
• Support cleaning and disinfection validation activities.
• Perform environmental monitoring and water/utility sampling as scheduled or requested.
• Support method development, verification, validation, and method transfers.
• Investigate out-of-specification (OOS) and non-conforming results and complete associated CAPA activities.
• Maintain laboratory inventory, reagents, equipment, and associated documentation.
• Ensure the laboratory remains compliant, clean, organized, and audit-ready at all times.
• Deliver accurate and reliable test results within required turnaround times.
• Support custom studies and client-specific projects as needed.
• Collaborate with internal teams and clients to ensure clear communication of testing requirements and results.
• Document all activities accurately and contemporaneously in accordance with regulatory and quality expectations.

Essential Skills

• Minimum 2+ years of experience in a GMP/GLP or FDA-regulated laboratory environment.
• Strong microbiology laboratory techniques and aseptic practices.
• Hands-on experience with environmental monitoring.
• Experience performing bioburden testing.
• Proficiency working within cleanroom and controlled environments.
• Excellent technical writing and documentation skills.
• Strong attention to detail and a demonstrated commitment to quality.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic laboratory environment.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks while maintaining accuracy and compliance.
• Effective communication skills for a client-facing role.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• BS, MS, or PhD in Microbiology, Biology, Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline preferred.
• Experience supporting method development, verification, validation, and method transfers.
• Familiarity with USP, EP, ISO, and other relevant regulatory and compendial standards.
• Experience conducting cleaning and disinfection validations.
• Background in working within cGMP/GLP testing services such as toxicology, biocompatibility, pharmacology, analytical chemistry, or microbiology.
• Ability to participate in investigations, including OOS and non-conforming results, and support CAPA activities.
• Bay Area location or ability to work on-site in the region preferred.
• Motivation to contribute to a mission-driven organization focused on enhancing public health through testing services.
• Adaptability to evolving workflows and modernized laboratory processes.

Work Environment

The role is based in a regulated laboratory environment that supports cGMP/GLP testing services in areas such as toxicology, biocompatibility, pharmacology, analytical chemistry, and microbiology. The position involves working extensively at the lab bench for up to 8 hours per day and standing for extended periods of time, up to 6 hours. The analyst regularly works in biosafety cabinets, laminar airflow units, and cleanrooms, and must be comfortable fully gowning to enter a sterility suite, which requires balance and coordinated movements. The work includes repetitive motion tasks with hands and arms and requires the ability to lift up to 30 pounds. The laboratory operates in a fast-paced, dynamic setting with a strong emphasis on quality, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement. The organization is investing in modernizing workflows, upgrading facilities, and enhancing the employee experience, offering an environment where talented, energetic scientists and professionals can contribute to a mission of enhancing public health through high-quality testing services.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Hercules, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $34.00 - $53.65/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 Hercules,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 14, 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.