Job Title: QC Microbiology AnalystJob DescriptionThe QC Microbiology Analyst performs essential microbiological analyses that ensure product quality and safety within a pharmaceutical manufacturing environment. In this role, you conduct microbiological testing on raw materials, finished products, and environmental samples in accordance with established SOPs and GMP guidelines. You prepare media, maintain cultures, identify microorganisms, perform environmental monitoring, and calibrate laboratory equipment while carefully documenting and analyzing test results. You also contribute to method development, support validation projects, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement in laboratory and quality operations. This position offers strong career development opportunities, exposure to multiple areas of pharmaceutical quality, and the chance to directly support a mission focused on making the world healthier, cleaner, and safer.Responsibilities
- Perform microbiological testing on raw materials, in-process samples, finished products, and environmental samples in accordance with SOPs, GMP, and GLP requirements.
- Prepare microbiological media and reagents, ensuring accurate formulation, labeling, and sterility.
- Maintain and handle microbial cultures, including storage, subculturing, and disposal in line with aseptic techniques and safety protocols.
- Conduct environmental monitoring activities, including sampling of air, surfaces, and personnel, and interpret results against established limits.
- Execute microbiological assays such as growth promotion testing and microbial identification using approved methods.
- Calibrate, operate, and perform routine maintenance on laboratory equipment to ensure reliable and accurate test results.
- Document all laboratory activities and test results clearly and accurately in laboratory notebooks, electronic systems, and quality records.
- Analyze data, identify trends or deviations, and escalate issues in accordance with quality and compliance procedures.
- Participate in method development and validation projects to improve or implement microbiological testing procedures.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams in Quality Control, Materials Testing, Sampling, Instrument Maintenance, Microbiology, and Research and Development to support overall quality objectives.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives within the laboratory by suggesting process enhancements and contributing to problem-solving efforts.
- Follow all safety protocols and use appropriate personal protective equipment, including lab coat, safety glasses, and gloves, while performing laboratory tasks.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory workspace that meets regulatory and internal quality standards.
- Manage workload effectively by prioritizing testing activities to meet project timelines and production schedules.
- Work independently on assigned tasks while contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.
- Be available to work various schedules, including occasional weekends, as required by laboratory and production needs.
Essential Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, or a related scientific field.
- Ability to perform microbiology laboratory work without prior industry experience, supported by academic training.
- Strong knowledge of GMP and GLP principles and their application in a laboratory setting.
- Solid understanding and practice of aseptic techniques for handling samples, cultures, and equipment.
- Proficiency in microbiological testing methods, including environmental monitoring, growth promotion testing, and microbial identification.
- Experience with routine laboratory equipment maintenance and calibration.
- Strong documentation skills with the ability to record data accurately and maintain complete, compliant laboratory records.
- Technical writing skills for preparing clear and concise reports, protocols, and test summaries.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
- High level of attention to detail with excellent organizational and time management abilities.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with colleagues and cross-functional teams.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
- Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift 1035 pounds, and perform laboratory tasks requiring manual dexterity.
- Commitment to following safety protocols and proper use of personal protective equipment.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience with LIMS and SAP or similar laboratory and enterprise data systems is preferred.
- Interest in building a long-term career in pharmaceutical sciences with openness to lateral movement across departments such as Materials Testing, Sampling, Instrument Maintenance, Microbiology, Quality Control, and Research and Development.
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities and schedules, including availability for weekend work when required.
- Demonstrated ability to contribute to method development and validation activities is a plus.
- Comfort working in a regulated environment with strict quality and compliance standards.
- Strong problem-solving mindset and willingness to participate in continuous improvement initiatives.
Work EnvironmentThis role is based in a pharmaceutical manufacturing laboratory operating Monday through Friday, typically from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the possibility of working alternative schedules, including weekends, as needed. You work in a controlled laboratory environment that adheres to GMP and GLP standards, using microbiology equipment such as incubators, biosafety cabinets, autoclaves, and calibrated instruments for testing and environmental monitoring. The broader site includes approximately 150 to 160 employees across specialized areas, providing exposure to diverse functions within pharmaceutical quality and opportunities for lateral movement between departments. The culture emphasizes collaboration, continuous learning, and professional growth, with career paths that can extend beyond the initial position into areas like Materials Testing, Sampling, Instrument Maintenance, Quality Control, and Research and Development. Laboratory work requires standing for extended periods, lifting 1035 pounds, and performing tasks that demand manual dexterity. Appropriate personal protective equipment, including lab coat, safety glasses, and gloves, is required and provided to maintain a safe, compliant, and professional work setting. Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cincinnati, OH. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $25.00 - $30.00/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 to Hire position based out of Cincinnati, OH. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 25, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Cincinnati,OH.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 actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.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.
