Microbiologist

Job Title: Microbiologist IJob DescriptionThe Microbiologist I investigates the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms such as bacteria, algae, and fungi. This role focuses on laboratory analysis, monitoring microbial cultures and samples, and evaluating new products using specialist computer software and a range of microbiological identification methods. The position offers hands-on laboratory experience in a regulated environment and supports quality assurance for cosmetic and related products.

Responsibilities

• Promote a safe working environment and strictly adhere to Health, Safety and Environmental procedures, company safety rules, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) at all times.
• Collect production samples for microbial analysis at three different stages (beginning, middle, and end) when testing packaged finished goods.
• Perform routine Total Plate Count (TPC), Yeast and Mold, and enrichment testing on raw materials, bulk products, and packaged finished goods.
• Conduct gram staining to support identification and characterization of microorganisms.
• Prepare microbiological media for use in a variety of microbiology tests.
• Perform environmental air and surface testing to monitor facility hygiene and control microbial contamination.
• Conduct water sampling and water analysis to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
• Assist in conducting routine Preservative Efficacy Testing to evaluate product preservation systems.
• Assist in conducting routine Method Suitability Testing for TPC and Yeast and Mold methods.
• Record, document, and maintain accurate microbiology test results, supporting timely reporting and quality assurance decisions.
• Carry out laboratory work and associated record keeping in a safe manner consistent with recognized GLP principles.
• Collaborate effectively with laboratory analysts, supervisors, and quality assurance leadership, demonstrating willingness to perform assigned tasks as needed to support laboratory operations.
• Communicate and collaborate with management and colleagues to maintain a professional yet friendly atmosphere and strong working relationships.
• Identify procedural issues in the laboratory and take prompt action to help remedy problems.
• Make suggestions for process and quality improvements and consistently work to enhance laboratory practices.
• Manage time effectively, multi-task, and follow through on project assignments to meet job requirements and deadlines.
• Demonstrate flexibility to work longer hours during peak seasons or on special schedules as needed.
• Lift laboratory materials and equipment up to 25 lbs and stand, walk, and sit for extended periods while performing laboratory and office tasks.

Essential Skills

• High school education or equivalent.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in cosmetics or a related FDA-regulated industry.
• Ability to perform microbiological techniques including Total Plate Count, Yeast and Mold testing, enrichment testing, gram staining, media preparation, environmental monitoring, and water sampling.
• Good time-management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks in a busy laboratory environment.
• Strong English communication skills, including speaking, reading, and writing, to accurately document results and collaborate with colleagues.
• Ability to multi-task and follow through on project assignments from start to completion.
• Ability to quickly identify and help remedy procedural problems in laboratory processes.
• Good interpersonal and customer service skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills to manage samples, documentation, and testing schedules.
• Physical ability to lift up to 25 lbs and to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor of science in a biology-related field (such as microbiology, biology, molecular biology, or biochemistry), or a combination of 2 years of college education and experience in cosmetics or related FDA-regulated industry is preferred.
• Experience or interest in working with cosmetic products and other FDA-regulated items.
• Advanced PC knowledge, including proficiency with MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook), is preferred.
• Familiarity with quality assurance principles and practices in regulated environments.
• Experience or coursework related to USP standards, FDA regulations, and calibration procedures.
• Knowledge of environmental monitoring, including viable and non-viable particle monitoring, and assessment of microbes such as bacteria and fungi.
• Strong people and leadership skills, with the ability to support team initiatives and contribute to a positive laboratory culture.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement and willingness to make suggestions for enhancing processes and workflows.
• Recent graduates with a biology-based degree (microbiology, biology, molecular biology, biochemistry) are encouraged to apply for this entry-level contract role.

Work EnvironmentThis role is based in both laboratory and office environments, providing hands-on experience with microbiological testing and quality assurance activities. The laboratory is equipped for microbiology testing of cosmetics and other regulated products, including environmental monitoring and calibration activities. The noise level is low to moderate, with proper lighting and ventilation to support careful analytical work. The standard shift runs from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with possible rotation between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM start times depending on operational needs. Team members may be asked to work longer hours during peak seasons or on special schedules to meet testing and production timelines. The environment emphasizes safety, adherence to GLP, cGMP, SOPs, and regulatory standards, and supports a professional, collaborative, and improvement-focused culture. Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Chatsworth, CA. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $25.00 - $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) Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Chatsworth, CA. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 19, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Chatsworth,CA.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.

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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.

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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.

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