Scientist - Microbiology

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Scientist – Microbiology Job Description

This role supports a Quality Control (QC) team in a GMP-regulated pharmaceutical environment, with a primary focus on validation and qualification of microbiological methods. The scientist ensures that microbiological testing methods are compliant, robust, and aligned with regulatory expectations while contributing to continuous improvement of quality systems, validation practices, and laboratory operations. This position is ideal for a microbiology professional who wants to deepen their experience in QC method validation and advance their career in a biomanufacturing setting.

• Lead and support the validation and qualification of microbiological methods to ensure compliance with GMP and regulatory requirements.
• Assist with the development, execution, and documentation of method validation protocols, including IQ, OQ, and PQ activities.
• Perform and support routine and non-routine microbiological testing such as bioburden, endotoxin, sterility, and related assays.
• Record, analyze, and document validation and testing results in accordance with quality standards and data integrity expectations.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including Quality Control, Quality Assurance, and operations, to plan and execute validation activities.
• Support QC method validation or method transfer activities to ensure smooth implementation and consistency across laboratories.
• Utilize electronic systems and documentation tools, such as LIMS, to manage data, track samples, and maintain accurate records.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of microbiology methods, laboratory processes, and quality systems by identifying opportunities and proposing enhancements.
• Maintain adherence to GMP, regulatory guidelines, and internal procedures during all laboratory and documentation activities.
• Support training and knowledge sharing within the QC team related to microbiological methods and validation practices.

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biology, or a related scientific field.
• 2–5+ years of experience working in a GMP-regulated microbiology laboratory.
• At least 2 years of hands-on experience with endotoxin and bioburden methods.
• Strong understanding of GMP principles and regulatory compliance requirements for pharmaceutical microbiology.
• Experience supporting QC method validation or method transfer activities.
• Demonstrated knowledge of method qualification and validation concepts, including IQ, OQ, and PQ.
• Proficiency in performing microbiological assays such as bioburden, endotoxin, and sterility testing.
• Ability to accurately document laboratory activities and results in alignment with data integrity and quality standards.
• Experience using electronic systems and documentation platforms, such as LIMS, for sample and data management.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to follow written procedures and protocols.

• Experience working within a pharmaceutical biomanufacturing facility.
• Prior involvement in quality systems and continuous improvement initiatives within a QC laboratory.
• Familiarity with cross-functional collaboration between QC, QA, and operations teams.
• Interest in expanding expertise in method validation and qualification to support career growth.
• Ability to adapt to evolving laboratory processes and contribute ideas for process optimization.
• Strong communication skills to effectively share findings and collaborate across teams.
• Motivation to work on a longer-term project engagement with opportunities for professional development.
• Experience with electronic data integrity practices and compliance expectations in a regulated environment.

The role is based in a pharmaceutical biomanufacturing facility within a quality control testing laboratory. Approximately 80% of the time is spent in the lab performing microbiological testing on samples, with the remaining time spent in an office area located down the hallway due to ongoing lab renovations. The environment is GMP-regulated and focused on high-quality, compliant microbiological testing and method validation activities. Team members work closely with QC, QA, and operations, using electronic systems such as LIMS for documentation and data management. The position follows a 4x10 schedule, with shift options of Sunday through Wednesday or Wednesday through Saturday, allowing some flexibility based on candidate preference. The organization offers competitive compensation and benefits, as well as a strong opportunity for individuals with QC experience to gain deeper involvement in method validation activities and progress their careers in a structured, professional setting.

This is a Contract position based out of Sanford, NC.

The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $45.00/hr.

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)

This is a fully onsite position in Sanford,NC.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 31, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.