Microbiologist

Nestle Operational Services Worldwide SA•Town of Islip, NY

1d•$65,000 - $75,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Microbiologist plays a key role in supporting product quality and consumer safety by performing routine microbiological testing and laboratory activities within the Quality Control Microbiology Laboratory. Working under general supervision, this position utilizes established laboratory techniques, equipment, and procedures to generate accurate and reliable results while ensuring compliance with quality and regulatory standards. The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience with microbiological testing, a strong foundation in laboratory operations, and the ability to troubleshoot and maintain laboratory equipment. This role also offers the opportunity to develop and apply advanced expertise in specialized microbiological testing methods while contributing to a collaborative, quality-focused team environment.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biological Sciences, or a closely related discipline preferred.
3–5 years of microbiology experience required.
Knowledge of regulatory and compliance requirements.
Experience in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, or food industry preferred.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Familiarity with laboratory record-keeping systems.
Relevant certifications in quality management or laboratory practices may be required.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret, analyze, and communicate data trends.
Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively under pressure.

Responsibilities

Perform assigned responsibilities independently with minimal supervision.
Conduct microbiological testing of samples, which may include collecting samples from various production areas.
Perform clerical and administrative activities using established systems to gather information, define testing requirements, and communicate results to internal laboratory customers.
Accurately record data, perform calculations, analyze results, and prepare and authorize reports.
Conduct peer reviews of data and provide critical assessments of laboratory systems while keeping management informed of progress and significant findings.
Effectively prioritize workload to meet established timelines and product release requirements. Availability to work weekends and adjust schedules as needed is required.
Monitor and communicate equipment and supply needs to ensure uninterrupted testing operations.
Maintain accurate records and report results in compliance with approved regulatory requirements, quality standards, and laboratory procedures.
Adhere to all applicable operational procedures, testing protocols, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and health and safety requirements.
Demonstrate strong housekeeping practices to minimize data errors, laboratory contamination, and safety risks. Properly handle biohazardous materials and waste in accordance with established safety procedures.
Promptly escalate unexpected, atypical, or out-of-specification (OOS) results to ensure appropriate investigations are initiated and documented.
Participate in investigations and studies involving atypical or nonconforming results, as required.
Periodically perform responsibilities associated with higher-level roles to support training and professional development.
Interpret and communicate findings based on test results and data analysis.
Serve as a subject matter expert in specialized or complex testing methodologies, such as challenge studies and preparatory testing.
Provide guidance, oversight, and training to less experienced microbiologists on specialized testing techniques.
Perform basic and intermediate-level maintenance, troubleshooting, and operational support for laboratory instrumentation and procedures.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.