Microbiologist

Applied Medical; Rancho Santa Margarita (CA); On-site; USD 71,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Training and mentorship opportunities

401(k) program with discretionary employer match

Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule

Job summary

Applied Medical is seeking a Microbiologist to support laboratory operations in Rancho Santa Margarita, California. This role involves overseeing lab testing, ensuring compliance with quality standards and guiding junior team members. Ideal candidates will have a background in biology or microbiology and experience in microbial laboratory work.

We offer a competitive salary range of $71,000 to $80,000 annually, comprehensive benefits, education reimbursement, and a commitment to employee growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, or a related field.
• Required experience in microbial laboratory work.
• Knowledge of test procedure standards and guidelines.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Implement and oversee laboratory testing functions.
• Troubleshoot testing procedure workflows.
• Ensure quality and compliance of experiments.
• Guide training for junior team members.
• Communicate test results clearly.

Skills

Laboratory testing skills

Aseptic techniques

Technical writing

Effective communication

Customer service orientation

Education

Bachelor's degree in biology or microbiology

Tools

Microsoft Office

SAP

Adobe Suite

Job description

Applied Medical is a new generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field. Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute in a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.

Position Description

The Microbiologist supports testing and laboratory operations within Applied Medical's Biological Sciences Department in Rancho Santa Margarita, California. This role implements and oversees laboratory testing, guides junior team members, and ensures the quality and compliance of experiments in accordance with established procedures and regulatory standards. The Microbiologist works within a collaborative team environment to meet customer expectations and drive continuous improvement in laboratory quality and efficiency. Professionals with backgrounds in microbiology, biology, clinical laboratory science, or life sciences research will find this role a strong match.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement and oversee laboratory testing functions, including equipment tracking and monitoring, supply management, documentation production, and internal review
• Troubleshoot testing procedure workflows and continuously suggest process improvements prioritizing efficiency and high quality outputs
• Ensure the quality and execution of experiments in accordance with established procedures, guidelines, and the laboratory quality management program
• Guide and coordinate training for Associate Microbiologists and Laboratory Technicians
• Maintain, calibrate, and oversee the proper installation, repair, and servicing of laboratory equipment, including biosafety cabinets, incubators, and autoclaves
• Produce, review, and maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation in accordance with specifications
• Support safety standards in conjunction with the Safety Team, including maintaining Safety Data Sheets and inspecting safety equipment
• Communicate test results clearly to the Laboratory Manager and cross-functional stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and internal teams
• Assist in the auditing of internal procedures and recommend improvements to testing processes and equipment

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Laboratory testing is completed accurately, on time, and in full compliance with established procedures and quality standards
• Junior team members are well-trained, supported, and consistently performing at a high level
• Laboratory equipment is maintained proactively, with minimal disruption to operations
• Documentation and laboratory records are thorough, accurate, and audit-ready
• Process improvement recommendations lead to measurable gains in testing efficiency and quality
• Cross-functional partners view the Microbiologist as a knowledgeable, communicative, and dependable resource

Position Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, or a related field
• Knowledge of ISO/IEC 17025 and/or 21CFR part 58
• Required experience in microbial laboratory work, including genetic identification, sequencing, and gram‑staining
• Experience with aseptic laboratory techniques and good laboratory practices
• Knowledge of test procedure standards and guidelines
• Technical writing skills, including the ability to produce and review laboratory documentation
• Ability to understand and stay current with regulations, guidance documents, and standards
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, SAP, and Adobe Suite
• Analytical, meticulous, and detail‑oriented approach to laboratory work
• Ability to multitask and prioritize multiple projects
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Customer service‑oriented mindset

Preferred

• Experience executing protocols and writing technical reports
• Experience in investigations and root cause analysis

Benefits

• Competitive compensation range: $71000 - $80000 / year (California).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Training and mentorship opportunities.
• On‑campus wellness activities.
• Education reimbursement program.
• 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
• Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply.

Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well‑being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.

All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.