Microbiologist

Collins McNicholas Recruitment; Kildare; On-site; EUR 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Full-time position

Pension scheme

Annual leave entitlement

Funded training and development

Career progression opportunities

Supportive working environment

Modern facilities

Employee wellbeing

Job summary

Collins McNicholas Recruitment is seeking a Microbiologist to join the Quality Control team in Athy. The role involves microbiology testing, environmental monitoring, investigations, audits and quality projects within a food manufacturing setting.

You will manage microbiology testing through to completion and provide technical guidance on microbiological matters to internal and external stakeholders. A lab-based role in a food manufacturing environment offering development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology or related discipline.
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Responsibilities

• Carry out standard microbiological sampling and related lab procedures.
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• CoT_job_summary_short
• COMPANY NAME: Collins McNicholas RecruitmentKEY POINTS: QC microbiology role, Athy site, GMP/GLP focus
• job_summary_short :<p>Collins McNicholas Recruitment is seeking a Microbiologist to join the Quality Control team in Athy. The role involves microbiology testing, environmental monitoring, investigations, audits and quality projects within a food manufacturing setting.</p><p>You will manage microbiology testing through to completion and provide technical guidance on microbiological matters to internal and external stakeholders. A lab-based role in a food manufacturing environment offering development opportunities.</p>
• contract_type
• contract_type
• fulltime
• location_type
• on site
• remote_scope
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• perks
• perks
• [{
• stated_min
• null
• stated_max
• null
• stated_absolute
• null
• salary_estimation_cot
• estimated_low
• 35000
• estimated_medium
• 42000
• estimated_high
• 48000
• currency
• EUR
• frequency
• yearly
• bonus
• null
• tax
• gross
• application_email
• null
• job_end_date
• null
• contact_person
• null
• hiring_department_name
• null

Skills

GLP knowledge

GDP knowledge

GMP knowledge

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

MS Office skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology or related field

Tools

Membrane filters

Petrifilm

RODAC plates

Micropipettes

Pipettes

Job description

Our client is seeking a Microbiologist to join their Quality Control team in Athy, reporting to the QC Supervisor.

This is an excellent opportunity for a microbiology professional to work within a food manufacturing environment, supporting microbiological testing, environmental monitoring, investigations, audits, and quality-related projects.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing microbiology-related testing and activities through to completion, while providing technical support and guidance on microbiological matters to internal and external stakeholders.

The role requires someone who is comfortable working in a laboratory and food manufacturing environment, with a strong understanding of microbiological testing, laboratory practices, and food safety requirements. The successful candidate will also be expected to build positive working relationships across the business and contribute to a collaborative, quality-focused environment.

Main Responsibilities

Sampling & Sample Management

• Carry out standard microbiological techniques including sampling, transfers, streaking, dilutions, blending, and related laboratory procedures.
• Use a range of microbiological sampling and plating equipment, including membrane filters, Petrifilm, RODAC plates, sterile swabs, micropipettes, and pipettes.
• Ensure sampling and laboratory activities are carried out accurately and in accordance with established procedures.
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and all relevant health and safety requirements when working within the manufacturing environment.

Testing & Analysis

• Perform standard microbiological testing using recognised methods and protocols, including FDA-BAM, AOAC, Compendium, FSIS, USP, and other applicable methods.
• Interpret and document microbiological results accurately.
• Maintain high standards of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Documentation Practice (GDP).
• Support microbiological studies and generate data to assist with validations and investigations.
• Maintain reliable microbiological results through appropriate controls and verification activities.
• Support and maintain the site's Environmental Monitoring Programme.
• Develop and execute microbiological testing protocols based on accepted scientific principles and relevant industry standards.

Audits & Inspections

• Provide microbiology-related support during internal inspections, audits, and risk assessments.
• Support third-party inspections and audits, providing technical microbiology information and guidance as required.
• Ensure laboratory activities and documentation are maintained to the required quality and compliance standards.

Investigation & Problem Solving

• Investigate microbiological queries, deviations, and out-of-specification results.
• Analyse microbiological data and provide recommendations, possible solutions, or appropriate next steps.
• Support root-cause investigations and contribute to the resolution of microbiological and quality-related issues.
• Apply basic statistical and data analysis techniques where appropriate.

Data & Systems Management

• Accurately enter, manage, and retrieve laboratory data using internal databases and systems.
• Maintain accurate sample information, testing records, and microbiological results.
• Use Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook and Teams, to support communication, reporting, and collaboration.

Communication & Administration

• Communicate technical microbiological information clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Coordinate sample testing and liaise with third-party laboratories where required.
• Provide technical microbiology support and guidance to internal teams and other stakeholders.
• Support the management and ordering of microbiology laboratory supplies.
• Contribute to microbiology-related projects and initiatives as required.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, vendors, customers, and other stakeholders to support departmental and business objectives.

This list is intended as a guide and the successful candidate may be required to undertake additional duties in line with the changing needs of the business.

Role Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology with a focus on Microbiology, or a related scientific discipline.
• Previous experience working in a food microbiology, food manufacturing, quality control, or laboratory environment.
• Strong understanding of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Documentation Practices (GDP), and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Practical experience with microbiological sampling, testing, analysis, and interpretation of results.
• Good understanding of laboratory procedures, controls, and documentation requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a methodical and detail-oriented approach.
• Ability to investigate microbiological results and contribute to root-cause analysis.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain technical information clearly.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple testing activities and priorities.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications such as Outlook and Teams.
• An understanding of basic statistics and data analysis would be advantageous.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and build positive relationships across the business.
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of quality, food safety, health and safety, and regulatory compliance.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary
• Full-time position
• Pension scheme
• Annual leave entitlement
• Funded training and professional development
• Opportunities for career development and skills progression
• Supportive and collaborative working environment
• Modern working facilities
• Employee wellbeing initiatives
• Opportunities to develop specialist expertise within microbiology, quality, and food manufacturing