Scientist I - Microbiology
About The Position
The Microbiologist is responsible for performing microbiological testing accurately, on time, and in compliance with established methods, aseptic practices, and regulatory requirements. The role works across the microbiology workflow - from sample preparation through plating, incubation, reading, and data entry - and contributes to media production, instrument upkeep, and a clean, compliant lab. Reporting to the Supervisor - Microbiology, the Microbiologist executes routine and more complex microbial testing, prepares media and samples, operates and maintains instrumentation, and records results with strong documentation discipline. This is a hands-on bench role that keeps the workflow moving while upholding the aseptic discipline and timing precision that microbiological testing demands. We are looking for someone technically capable and detail-oriented - a careful, process-disciplined bench scientist who executes accurately, communicates issues early, supports continuous improvement, and helps develop less-experienced team members.
Requirements
- B.S. in Microbiology, Biology, Medical Laboratory Science, or a closely related science discipline; or equivalent combination of education and relevant laboratory experience.
- Experience with, or strong foundational knowledge of, microbiological testing techniques - aseptic technique, media preparation, plating, serial dilutions, and incubation.
- Familiarity with SOP-driven workflows, LIMS systems, and good laboratory practices (GLP).
- Strong attention to detail, organization, and documentation discipline.
- Ability to manage time-sensitive workflows and meet turnaround targets.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in a contract laboratory or regulated testing environment (dietary supplements, food and beverage, cosmetics, or pharmaceutical).
- Familiarity with compendial microbiological methods (USP <61>, <62>, <2021>, <2022>, AOAC, BAM, ISO, or equivalent).
- Experience with qPCR/PCR methods and plate-reader systems.
- Experience with environmental monitoring programs.
- Experience mentoring or training junior team members
Responsibilities
- Perform sample preparation - homogenization, weighing, and documentation of sample weights - for microbial analysis, following SOPs.
- Prepare media, broths, and agars; perform serial dilutions, inoculate samples, and incubate per method requirements.
- Read and record plating results, count colonies (manually and via plate reader), and calculate CFU/ g.
- Support qPCR/PCR testing preparation and execution.
- Organize, label, and store samples; prioritize preparation and retests based on testing schedules and deadlines.
- Operate laminar flow hoods, plate readers, incubators, PCR instruments, and related equipment.
- Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, calibration, and diagnostics; record on bench sheets and incubation logs.
- Monitor instrument performance during runs, perform basic troubleshooting, and escalate issues as needed.
- Enter and track sample data in the LIMS accurately and on time; upload data and confirm retest needs with Data Review.
- Examine blanks and controls for contamination; spot-check calculations for accuracy and data integrity.
- Record retests in the retest log and communicate sample delays to the Supervisor and Client Services.
- Support the implementation, optimization, and validation of plating and microbial methods under the direction of the Supervisor.
- Contribute to process improvements and testing efficiency.
- Maintain a clean, sanitary, aseptic workstation; complete daily and weekly cleaning tasks; dump samples and support disposal efforts.
- Uphold environmental controls and contamination-prevention practices.
- Monitor and audit stock levels of reagents, consumables, and instrument parts; perform and record routine pipette and dispensette checks; flag discrepancies to the Inventory team.
- Work closely with the Supervisor and team, and mentor and support less-experienced microbiologists.
- Perform additional duties as the role evolves or as directed by the Supervisor - Microbiology or laboratory management.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
