Scientist, Microbiology

Job Description Summary:

The Scientist, Microbiology performs microbiological testing and environmental monitoring activities that support product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance programs. As part of an End-to-End (E2E) Laboratory Modernization Program, this role supports laboratory operations through the execution of microbiological analyses and associated quality activities.

The Scientist is responsible for conducting microbial testing, preparing culture media and reagents, performing environmental monitoring activities, and evaluating microbiological data generated within the laboratory. The role collaborates with scientific and quality teams to support investigations, method validation activities, and continuous improvement initiatives while ensuring compliance with applicable procedures and regulatory requirements. The level of responsibility, autonomy, and technical complexity will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Job Responsibilities

• Conduct microbiological analyses and environmental monitoring activities supporting product quality and safety programs.
• Prepare culture media, reagents, and microbiological supplies in accordance with approved procedures.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment used for microbiological testing and sample analysis.
• Perform microbial identification and enumeration activities and evaluate microbiological data for accuracy and compliance.
• Support investigations involving atypical results, deviations, and corrective actions.
• Participate in method validation, verification, and technology transfer activities.
• Maintain laboratory records and documentation in accordance with quality requirements and good documentation practices.
• Collaborate with laboratory personnel and quality teams to ensure timely delivery of high-quality results.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Maintain training and compliance in health, safety, environmental, and operational requirements.

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities of this job at any time.

Critical Skills:

• Strong understanding of microbiological principles, aseptic technique, and laboratory safety protocols.
• Proficiency with microbiological equipment including microscopes, autoclaves, and incubators.
• Attention to detail in colony counting, data recording, and quality documentation.
• Understanding of ISO 17025 quality management systems.
• Ability to follow written methods and procedures precisely.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in microbiology, biology, or related scientific discipline.
• OR Associate degree with 2+ years of relevant microbiology laboratory experience.
• Relevant microbiology laboratory experience commensurate with level (entry-level candidates through experienced scientists will be considered).
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a regulated laboratory environment.
• Adaptable, self-motivated, and capable of maintaining aseptic technique in a production-paced laboratory.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience performing microbiological analyses and environmental monitoring activities.
• Familiarity with microbial identification and culture techniques.
• Experience working within ISO 17025, GLP, GMP, or FDA-regulated laboratories.
• Experience supporting investigations, deviations, and CAPA activities.
• Knowledge of consumer products, pharmaceuticals, or regulated products.
• Experience supporting method validation and technology transfer activities.

Working Environment:

• Must be able to work in a laboratory, controlled environments requiring personal protective equipment (e.g., lab coat, safety glasses, etc.) in laboratory.
• Job pace may be fast and job completion demands may be high.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position more than 25% of the time.
• The person needs to occasionally move between labs, corridors, adjoining rooms, and buildings onsite. Frequently operate on instruments, objects, tools or controls, which will require regularly bending, squatting, stretching and reaching in order to perform in a service function.
• Occasionally move or lift up to 25 pounds (potential for occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds).
• Specific vision abilities required by this position include without limitation, the ability to observe details at close range distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus in order to perform the essential service functions of this position.
• Occasionally operates a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer.
• Employee may be required to handle hazardous waste according to local, state, and federal regulations. Duties may include identifying, handling, generating, accumulating, storing and labeling hazardous waste.
• Potential risk to lab-based hazards including but not limited to extreme temperature, biological materials, and hazardous chemicals.
• May be required to complete Medical Clearance, Respiratory Protection Training, and Fit Testing to wear a respirator as protection against hazards present in the laboratory environment.