QC Microbiology Specialist

Boehringer Ingelheim; Pirbright; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Boehringer Ingelheim is seeking a QC Microbiology Specialist to join the Quality Control Microbiology team at the Pirbright site. This role supports microbiological testing and environmental monitoring for the manufacture and release of veterinary vaccines in a GMP environment.

Based onsite in Pirbright, you will work with experienced microbiologists, contribute to continuous improvement, ensure regulatory compliance, and deputise for the Microbiology Supervisor when required.

Qualifications

• Experience in a regulated Quality Control laboratory environment.
• Knowledge of sterile manufacturing and environmental monitoring.
• Familiarity with GMP/GxP and quality systems.

Responsibilities

• Perform in-process and final product testing within scope.
• Coordinate resources and ensure training compliance.
• Lead investigations and CAPAs impacting multiple departments.
• Identify CI projects and drive them to completion.
• Maintain compliance with HSE, biosafety and GMP standards.

Skills

GxP knowledge or quality systems

Attention to detail

Documentation

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or Microbiology

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

We are looking for a QC Microbiology Specialist to join our Quality Control Microbiology team at our Pirbright site. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a background in microbiology or life sciences who is looking to develop their career within a GMP-regulated pharmaceutical environment. Working as part of the Quality Control Restricted (QCR) department, you will support microbiological testing activities and environmental monitoring programmes that contribute to the manufacture and release of veterinary vaccines. You will gain exposure to a wide range of microbiology techniques while working alongside experienced microbiologists in a supportive and collaborative team environment.

Location: Pirbright, UK. This is a fully onsite and fixed-term contract until end of December 2027.

TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform all aspects of in-process and final product testing, within scope of responsibility, where results are used to support release of batches to required specifications. Including receipt of test samples into QC, preparation of reagents and test equipment, performing testing and reviewing where required
• Co-ordinate and forward plan of resources according to priorities and workload. Compliance with all mandatory training requirements
• Lead investigate within the team and in cross functional teams, that independently handles complex, multi-faceted deviations, investigations, OOS, CAPAs and change controls that impact multiple departments. Writing and updating relevant SOPs and material specifications
• Be proactive in identifying Continuous Improvement (CI) projects and lead them to completion
• Ensure compliance of the area with HSE, Biosafety and GMP standards, by regularly reviewing and updating SOPs and participating in audits when necessary
• QC subject matter expert (SME) for microbiological testing within QCR and own a designated quality system
• Review EM data using current industry standards and maintain EM database, sharing data trends collaboratively to support site EM compliance. Support with the site utilities testing program and support the QC team with the site Environmental Monitoring program as required
• Deputise for the Microbiology Supervisor in their absence
• Lead representative on new or complex equipment qualifications and upgrades
• Maintain laboratory equipment, reagents, consumables and controlled documentation
• Support sterilisation activities and waste management processes within restricted laboratory areas

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Microbiology or equivalent
• Experience working in a regulated Quality Control laboratory environment
• Good knowledge of sterile manufacturing and the microbiology lab environment, including environmental monitoring, water testing, sterility testing and microbiological identification
• Understanding of GMP/GxP and quality systems
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to accurate documentation
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
• Well-organised, able to work to deadlines and collaborate effectively within a team
• Comfortable working in a restricted laboratory environment and following biosafety procedures

WHY THIS IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK

Boehringer Ingelheim is recognised as a Top Employer in the UK, reflecting our commitment to exceptional workplace standards, career development and a purpose-driven culture. Our employees contribute to meaningful work, creating long-term value for people, animals and the environment. Learn more about why BI is a great place to work:

https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.co.uk/careers/uk-careers/why-great-place-work

Candidates may be asked to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Security check. Any offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory DBS certificate.

Our Company

Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company active in both human and animal health. As one of the industry's top investors in research and development, the company focuses on developing innovative therapies that can improve and extend lives in areas of high unmet medical need. Independent since its foundation in 1885, Boehringer takes a long-term perspective, embedding sustainability along the entire value chain. Our approximately 54,300 employees serve over 130 markets to build a healthier and more sustainable tomorrow. Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com.

Why Boehringer Ingelheim?

With us, you can develop your own path in a company with a culture that knows our differences are our strengths - and break new ground in the drive to make millions of lives better.

Here, your development is our priority. Supporting you to build a career as part of a workplace that is independent, authentic and bold, while tackling challenging work in a respectful and friendly environment where everyone is valued and welcomed.

Alongside, you have access to programs and groups that ensure your health and wellbeing are looked after - as we make major investments to drive global accessibility to healthcare. By being part of a team that is constantly innovating, you'll be helping to transform lives for generations.

Want to learn more? Visit https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com