QC Microbiologist I / Scientist IPosition Summary
The QC Microbiologist I / Scientist I supports microbiological testing activities in a cGMP-compliant Quality Control laboratory responsible for the manufacture and release of biological products. This role performs routine microbiological testing, supports validation activities, maintains laboratory documentation, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure quality and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate has hands-on microbiology laboratory experience, strong attention to detail, and an interest in developing expertise within a regulated pharmaceutical or biotechnology environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform microbiological testing on water, in-process, environmental, and product samples in accordance with approved procedures.
- Conduct bioburden testing, bacterial endotoxin testing (BET), growth promotion testing, biological indicator testing, and maintenance of stock cultures.
- Support microbiological method validation and qualification activities.
- Collect, analyze, document, and communicate experimental data, observations, and test results accurately and in compliance with cGMP requirements.
- Prepare and maintain laboratory documentation, including test records, logbooks, protocols, reports, and controlled documents.
- Assist with investigations related to out-of-specification (OOS), out-of-trend (OOT), and other laboratory events, including root cause analysis and corrective actions.
- Utilize aseptic techniques and established microbiological methods to ensure reliable and accurate results.
- Apply microbiological techniques including culturing, plating, gram staining, light microscopy, microbial identification, and taxonomy.
- Coordinate sample receipt, handling, tracking, and disposition activities to ensure timely completion of testing.
- Manage laboratory inventory and order supplies in accordance with departmental procedures.
- Maintain laboratory equipment, workspaces, and records in a state of inspection readiness.
- Collaborate with Quality, Manufacturing, Validation, and other cross-functional teams to support product release and manufacturing operations.
- Adhere to all laboratory safety, environmental, and quality requirements.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Life Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
- Minimum of 6 months of microbiology laboratory experience gained through industry, internships, research projects, academic laboratories, or equivalent experience.
- Hands-on experience with aseptic technique and basic microbiological testing methods.
- Experience with laboratory sample preparation, handling, documentation, and data collection.
- Familiarity with microbiological techniques such as culturing, plating, gram staining, microscopy, and microbial identification.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to data integrity and quality.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and within a team environment.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in a cGMP, GLP, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, food, or related regulated environment.
- Experience performing bioburden testing, bacterial endotoxin testing (BET), growth promotion testing, environmental monitoring, sterility assurance, or microbial identification testing.
- Familiarity with laboratory quality systems and electronic systems such as LIMS, TrackWise, Documentum, or equivalent platforms.
- Experience supporting investigations, deviations, OOS/OOT events, or CAPA activities.
- Experience drafting or revising SOPs, protocols, reports, and laboratory documentation.
- Knowledge of biologics, pharmaceutical manufacturing, or quality control laboratory operations.
Key Competencies
- Microbiology Laboratory Operations
- Aseptic Technique
- Quality Control Testing
- Data Collection & Analysis
- Documentation & Compliance
- Problem Solving
- Attention to Detail
- Collaboration & Teamwork
- Adaptability
- Technical Communication
- cGMP & Quality Systems
What You'll Gain
- This role provides an excellent opportunity for early-career scientists to develop expertise in GMP microbiology, biological product testing, validation activities, quality systems, and pharmaceutical manufacturing while working alongside experienced microbiology professionals in a highly regulated environment.
Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Saint