Microbiologist

Job Description

Job Description

Long Island Labs LLC is a third-party laboratory focused on raw materials and finished products in the nutritional & dietary supplements space. We operate to USP compendial methods and maintain ISO 17025–ready systems. We’re hiring a hands-on Microbiologist to prepare media, operate autoclaves, perform daily instrument checks, execute USP microbiological testing, and keep the lab humming with strong aseptic technique, documentation, and housekeeping.

Sample testing (USP)

• Perform microbial enumeration per USP <61> / <2021> and specified microorganisms per USP <62> / <2022> for raw materials and finished products.
• Execute appropriate sample prep, dilutions, neutralizers (as applicable), and transfers using aseptic technique in a BSC.
• Document OOS/atypical results, support root cause analysis, and assist with CAPA actions.

Media preparation & qualification

• Prepare and sterilize media, buffers, and reagents; label, lot, and track inventory.
• Run autoclave cycles (liquids/solids/waste), verify cycle parameters, and complete logs.
• Perform Growth Promotion Testing (GPT) / media suitability in alignment with USP and internal SOPs.

Environmental Monitoring (EM)

• Conduct viable air and surface monitoring, maintain EM maps/schedules, and trend results.
• Investigate excursions and support continuous improvement; align with GMP expectations and USP <1116> principles.

Equipment operations & daily checks

• Perform and document daily calibrations/verification for pH meters and balances; escalate issues as needed.
• Operate and maintain autoclaves, incubators, biosafety cabinets, and EM samplers (e.g., SAS Duo 360 or equivalent).
• Support IQ/OQ/PQ activities and routine equipment maintenance as assigned.

Compliance & documentation

• Follow Good Documentation Practices (GDP); maintain accurate batch records, EM logs, autoclave logs, GPT records, and instrument check sheets.
• Draft/review SOPs, forms, and method verifications; maintain ISO 17025–ready documentation.
• Participate in internal/external audits and implement corrective actions.

Housekeeping & safety

• Perform daily room cleanings, wipe-downs, and routine lab maintenance; manage biohazard waste and chemical hygiene per SOPs.
• Maintain a safe work environment with proper PPE and aseptic practices.

Minimum qualifications

• BS in Microbiology, Biology, related field or 3+ years industry experience.
• 1+ year hands-on microbiology lab experience (academic, internship, or industry) with media prep, autoclaves, and aseptic technique.
• Working knowledge of USP <61>/<62>/<2021>/<2022> workflows, GPT/media suitability, and basic EM.
• Strong GDP and attention to detail.

Nice to have (preferred)

• Experience with USP <85> Bacterial Endotoxins Test (LAL).
• Prior work in an ISO 17025 or GMP environment.
• Exposure to method validation/verification and assisting with equipment IQ/OQ/PQ.
• Experience with microbial ID tools (e.g., MicroSEQ, Vitek 2, MALDI-TOF) a plus.
• Experience with rPCR and Flow cytometer.

Physical & schedule requirements

• On-site role; standard business hours.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to ~35 lbs.
• Consistent use of PPE.

What success looks like (first 90 days)

• Consistent, correct media prep + GPT execution with complete logs.
• Reliable daily pH/balance checks and well-maintained autoclave and EM records.
• Competent, on-time execution of USP 61/62/2021/2022 tests with clean documentation.
• Proactive contribution to EM trending and lab housekeeping standards.

Job Type: Full-time