Microbiology Lab Technician

Microbiology Lab TechnicianThe Microbiology Lab Technician performs routine microbiological testing on environmental samples, raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure compliance with internal quality standards and regulatory requirements. This role maintains and troubleshoots laboratory equipment, accurately documents and reports test results, and supports investigations into microbiological issues and product quality concerns. The technician collaborates closely with Quality Control and Production teams, contributes to the development and implementation of new testing methods, and consistently follows GMP, GLP, GDP, and laboratory safety requirements in a fast-paced, evolving environment.ResponsibilitiesPerform routine microbiological testing of environmental samples, raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure compliance with company and regulatory standards.Accurately document, review, and report test results in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and company standard operating procedures (SOPs).Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and instruments to support accurate and reliable testing.Assist with investigations involving microbiological issues, product quality concerns, and potential contamination, including recommending corrective actions.Maintain and update laboratory records, SOPs, work instructions, and other required documentation.Support the development and implementation of new microbiological testing methods as needed.Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Documentation Practices (GDP), and laboratory safety requirements at all times.Collaborate with Quality Control, Production, Compounding, Engineering, and other cross-functional teams to support product quality and compliance.Walk the production floor to collect samples and return to the laboratory to perform testing and analysis.Manage multiple testing tasks and documentation activities while meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.Perform other job-related duties as assigned.Essential SkillsBachelor of Science degree in Microbiology, Biology, or a related scientific field.One to two years of microbiology laboratory experience preferred.Hands-on experience with microbiological testing methods and laboratory techniques, including aseptic technique and environmental monitoring.Familiarity with FDA regulations, GMP requirements, laboratory safety protocols, and quality standards.Understanding of laboratory equipment, testing methods, and technologies used in microbiological testing.Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate testing and documentation.Excellent organizational, time management, and prioritization skills.Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.Ability to manage multiple tasks, competing priorities, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.Comfort working independently in a small laboratory team.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience working in a GMP-regulated environment.Familiarity with FDA guidelines and regulatory expectations for microbiological testing.Knowledge of GLP and Good Documentation Practices (GDP).Experience following and updating SOPs and work instructions.Proven ability to react effectively to issues within the lab by utilizing available resources and problem-solving skills.Demonstrated strong attention to detail, supported by examples of accurate testing and thorough documentation.Effective time management skills, with the ability to prioritize workload and meet testing deadlines.Ability to thrive in both collaborative and independent work settings.Work EnvironmentThis position is primarily based in a laboratory setting within a smaller department of approximately one to two people, resulting in a highly independent work style. About 80% of the time is spent performing laboratory testing, including preparing samples, executing microbiological analyses, and walking out to the production floor to gather materials and samples. The remaining 20% of the time is dedicated to desk work, such as recording, reviewing, and analyzing results, and maintaining documentation and SOPs. The role offers regular cross-functional interaction with departments such as Quality Control, Compounding, Engineering, and Production, contributing to a close-knit and inclusive culture. The environment is fast-paced and continually evolving as new product lines, including personal care and over-the-counter lotions and creams, are developed and supported by expanded R&D processes. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, first shift, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Benefits include accrued paid time off, paid holidays, and safe/sick pay, supporting work-life balance in a dynamic and growth-oriented setting.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Eden Prairie, MN.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $22.00 - $26.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. 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)