Microbiologist

Actalent; United States; On-site; USD 34,440 - 39,950; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) Retirement Plan

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a Microbiologist for a contract to hire position based in Jackson, WI. The role focuses on performing microbiological testing on various samples to ensure product quality and safety. You will work alongside a quality team, participating in routine laboratory analyses and contributing to cross-training efforts.

Candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or Biology, with hands-on experience in microbiological techniques. The position offers ongoing professional development and a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or Biology with several microbiology-focused courses.
• At least 1 year of microbiological testing experience in an industry setting.
• Familiarity with FDA or GLP testing practices.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological analysis on raw materials and finished products.
• Conduct testing on environmental samples to monitor microbiological control.
• Document all test procedures and observations accurately.

Skills

Gram staining

Streaking techniques

Plating techniques

Microbiological testing

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or Biology

Job description

Microbiologist

The Microbiologist will perform microbiological testing on raw materials, in-process samples, finished goods, and environmental samples within an OTC pharmaceutical facility. This role supports product quality and safety by conducting routine laboratory analyses and contributing to a collaborative, growth-oriented quality team.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological analysis on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products in accordance with established procedures and regulatory expectations.
• Conduct testing on environmental samples from within the facility to monitor and maintain microbiological control.
• Carry out basic microbiological tests, including gram staining for organism identification, streaking, and plating techniques.
• Prepare, plate, and incubate samples using appropriate microbiological methods to detect and quantify microorganisms.
• Document all test procedures, observations, and results accurately and in a timely manner in laboratory records and systems.
• Follow FDA, GLP, and internal laboratory standards to ensure data integrity and compliance.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, work areas, and supplies in a clean, organized, and safe condition.
• Collaborate with the quality team, participate in cross-training, and support colleagues to ensure consistent coverage of key laboratory functions.
• Assist in troubleshooting test methods or unexpected results and communicate findings to relevant team members.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the microbiology laboratory and quality organization.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or Biology with several microbiology-focused courses.
• At least 1 year of microbiological testing experience in an industry setting (preferred).
• Hands-on experience with core microbiology techniques such as gram staining, streaking, and plating.
• Familiarity with microbiological testing in a laboratory environment, preferably within pharmaceutical or OTC settings.
• Understanding of FDA or GLP testing practices, with 1+ years of related experience considered a major plus.
• Ability to follow standardized laboratory procedures and maintain accurate documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy and quality.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented quality and laboratory environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working in an OTC or pharmaceutical microbiology laboratory.
• Exposure to FDA-regulated environments and good laboratory practice (GLP) standards.
• Motivation to learn new techniques and expand responsibilities as the organization grows.
• Willingness to participate in cross-training and support various functions within the quality team.
• Interest in developing a long-term career within an expanding outdoor OTC pharmaceutical market.

Work Environment

This position is based in an OTC microbiology laboratory that supports an expanding pharmaceutical operation. The standard schedule follows a day shift from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The quality team emphasizes collaboration and cross-training, offering opportunities to learn different aspects of microbiological and quality operations. Recent investment in Bag-on-Valve technology and a focus on organic growth create strong prospects for professional development and advancement.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of JACKSON, WI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $29.00/hr.

• 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 JACKSON, WI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 12, 2026.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

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.