Microbiologist

Colgate-Palmolive; Hodges (SC); On-site; USD 51,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global consumer products company is seeking a Microbiologist to perform microbiological testing and maintain lab standards in Hodges, SC. This role involves testing raw materials, ensuring compliance with quality standards, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. Ideal candidates have a B.Sc. in a related field and at least a year of lab experience. Join a company committed to sustainability, health, and innovation.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

401(k) retirement plan with company matching

Paid parental leave

Minimum of 15 vacation/PTO days

13 paid holidays

Qualifications

• 1+ year of practical microbiology laboratory experience.
• Knowledge of general laboratory equipment such as incubators, autoclaves, microscopes, and water baths.
• Practical knowledge of laboratory working environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological testing of raw materials, work-in-process, water, air, equipment surfaces, and finished product.
• Calculate and maintain KPIs to drive continuous improvement.
• Conduct Cleaning & Sanitization validations for products and equipment.

Skills

Results orientation

Communication

Education

Bachelors of Science in Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or related field

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Job description

No Relocation Assistance Offered
Job Number#167080 - Hodges, South Carolina, United States

Who We Are

Colgate-Palmolive Company is a global consumer products company operating in over 200 countries specializing in Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care, Skin Care, and Pet Nutrition. Our products are trusted in more households than any other brand in the world, making us a household name!

Join Colgate-Palmolive, a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for people, their pets, and our planet. Guided by our core values—Caring, Inclusive, and Courageous—we foster a culture that inspires our people to achieve common goals. Together, let's build a brighter, healthier future for all.

The Microbiologist is responsible for performing microbiological testing within the Micro Control Program, and ensuring conformance to the Colgate Quality Standards.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform microbiological testing of raw materials, work-in-process, water, air, equipment surfaces, and finished product following good laboratory practices and the micro control program

• Calculate, maintain, and utilize KPIs to drive continuous improvement, identify trends, and draw conclusions

• Assist with Cleaning & Sanitization validations for products and equipment

• Maintain lab equipment and calibrations

• Complete Failure Investigations and properly document Out of Specification results

• Support implementation and rollout of Global Quality Standards and local procedures

• Provide product and raw materials micro release using SAP system

• Provide support to facility to resolve nonconformance issues and identify corrective and preventive actions

• Perform laboratory quality checks, controls, and media preparation following good laboratory practices

• The position does require flexibility to work on weekends and shift work so as to best meet the facility’s needs and support projects

• Provides operator C&S, Micro Awareness, Swabbing, and Aseptic Sampling training to technicians.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelors of Science in Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or related field.

• 1+ year of practical microbiology laboratory experience.

• Knowledge of general laboratory equipment (such as incubators, autoclaves, microscopes, and water baths).

• Practical knowledge of laboratory working environment is required through job experience or college classwork.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Results orientation - Displays a high energy level, and puts top priority in getting results.

• Working knowledge and practical Experience with good laboratory practices (GLP’s).

• Ability to make decisions and communicate effectively while under pressure.

• Team building/Relationship Building - Develops relationships with people throughout the facility.

• Communication - Speaks and writes effectively, and keeps people up to date with information.

• Maintains lab notebooks and testing documentation

Compensation and Benefits
Salary Range $51,200.00 - $77,500.00 USD

Pay is determined based on experience, qualifications, and location. Salaried employees may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, profit-sharing, and long-term incentives for Executive-level roles.

Benefits: Salaried employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, paid parental leave, disability coverage, and participation in the 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions subject to eligibility requirements. Additional benefits include a minimum of 15 vacation/PTO days (hourly employees receive a minimum of 120 hours) and 13 paid holidays (vacation days are prorated based on the employee's hire date within the calendar year). Paid sick leave is adjusted based on role and location in accordance with local laws. Detailed information regarding paid sick leave entitlements will be provided to employees upon hiring and may be subject to adjustments based on changes in legislation or company policies.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Achieving our purpose starts with our people — ensuring our workforce represents the people and communities we serve —and creating an environment where our people feel they belong; where we can be our authentic selves, feel treated with respect and have the support of leadership to impact the business in a meaningful way.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Colgate is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, marital status, veteran status (United States positions), or any other characteristic protected by law.

Reasonable accommodation during the application process is available for persons with disabilities. Please complete this request form should you require accommodation.

For additional Colgate terms and conditions, please click here.

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