Microbiologist

Actalent; Dyersburg (TN); On-site; USD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k)

Paid time off

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a motivated Microbiologist to support quality, food safety, and product integrity in a high-volume food manufacturing setting. You will perform microbiological testing, environmental monitoring, and technical reporting to ensure safety and shelf stability of materials and finished products.

The role emphasizes analytical proficiency, attention to detail, and clear cross-functional communication.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of microbiological analysis methods, laboratory practices, and aseptic techniques.
• Ability to plan, execute, and document testing protocols and laboratory investigations.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.
• Ability to communicate findings clearly and effectively.

Responsibilities

• Isolate, culture, and maintain bacteria and other microorganisms.
• Perform quantitative and qualitative microbiological analysis of materials and products.
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Conduct environmental monitoring and water testing.
• Generate technical reports and recommendations from results.
• Support environmental monitoring and food safety programs.

Skills

Microbiology

Laboratory

Biology

Gmp

Aseptic technique

Quality control

Microbiology laboratory

Raw material testing

Pipetting

Plating

Education

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology

Related scientific discipline preferred

Tools

Microscopes

Laboratory instrumentation

Autoclaves

Incubators

Balances

Job description

Microbiologist

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Microbiologist to support quality, food safety, and product integrity initiatives within a high-volume food manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for performing microbiological testing, environmental monitoring, laboratory analysis, and technical reporting to help ensure the safety, quality, and shelf stability of raw materials, in-process materials, and finished products. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical and research skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate findings effectively across cross-functional teams.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Isolate, culture, and maintain bacteria and other microorganisms using appropriate media while controlling aeration, nutrition, moisture, and temperature requirements.

Perform quantitative and qualitative microbiological analysis of raw materials, environmental samples, and finished products.

Prepare, maintain, and order microbiological media and laboratory supplies.

Conduct environmental monitoring activities, including air sampling and environmental swabbing programs.

Perform potable water testing, including coliform and E. coli analysis.

Conduct environmental pathogen monitoring and verification testing programs.

Perform hand hygiene and uniform testing to support food safety initiatives.

Complete and accurately document all laboratory daily checks and testing activities in a timely manner.

Calibrate and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment used in microbiological and analytical testing.

Utilize microscopes and other laboratory equipment to identify and categorize microorganisms based on morphological, physiological, and cultural characteristics.

Collect, evaluate, and analyze samples throughout the facility to identify potential contamination sources and support root-cause investigations.

Generate technical reports, summarize findings, and provide recommendations based on laboratory results and investigations.

Support environmental monitoring, sanitation verification, and other food safety programs through auditing and program reviews.

Develop, improve, and document laboratory testing procedures and microbiological methods.

Operate laboratory equipment including autoclaves, incubators, microscopes, balances, and related instrumentation.

Maintain compliance with food safety regulations, quality standards, and laboratory best practices.

Report food safety, quality, and regulatory concerns promptly to Quality, Operations, or Management teams.

Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to quality systems, laboratory operations, and food safety programs.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Strong understanding of microbiological analysis methods, laboratory practices, and aseptic techniques.

Ability to plan, execute, and document testing protocols and laboratory investigations.

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.

Ability to prepare technical reports and communicate scientific findings clearly and effectively.

High level of accuracy, organization, and attention to detail.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments.

Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications and laboratory information systems.

Ability to stay current with emerging microbiological methods, food safety requirements, and industry best practices.

Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline preferred.

Experience in a microbiology laboratory, food manufacturing facility, quality assurance environment, or related setting preferred.

Working knowledge of microbiological testing techniques, methodologies, laboratory equipment, and supplies.

Experience with microscopes, laboratory instrumentation, culture media preparation, and analytical testing equipment.

Familiarity with food manufacturing regulations, HACCP principles, environmental monitoring programs, and food safety management systems preferred.

Work Environment

Food manufacturing and laboratory environment.

Frequent use of laboratory equipment, chemicals, microbiological media, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

May require standing for extended periods, lifting laboratory supplies, and working in both laboratory and production environments as needed.

Skills

Microbiology, Laboratory, Biology, Gmp, Aseptic technique, Quality control, Microbiology laboratory, Raw material testing, Pipetting, Plating

Top Skills Details

Microbiology,Laboratory,Biology,Gmp,Aseptic technique,Quality control,Microbiology laboratory

Experience Level

Intermediate Level

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Dyersburg, TN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $35.00/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Dyersburg,TN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 12, 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 [e-mail] 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.