Microbiology Lab Analyst

Actalent; Wisconsin; On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent in Wisconsin is seeking a Microbiology Lab Analyst to perform analytical and microbiological testing on food products and environmental samples, supporting quality and safety programs on second shift. You will prepare and analyze samples, maintain the lab, monitor equipment, and thoroughly document results.

The ideal candidate has a biology or chemistry degree and at least two years of hands-on testing experience, with knowledge of GLP and OSHA safety standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or related science.
• At least 2 years of experience in commercial food-testing or analytical lab.
• Hands-on microbiological testing experience in food, ingredients, or environmental samples.
• Proficient in aseptic sampling and routine lab procedures.
• Familiarity with GLP and OSHA safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmental samples.
• Apply microbiological techniques to evaluate indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemistries.
• Prepare and analyze samples and document results.
• Maintain inventory levels of reagents, media, and supplies.
• Provide routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting of equipment.
• Record, interpret, and report test results per documentation standards.
• Adhere to policies, procedures, and customer requirements while following regulations.

Skills

Microbiology testing

GLP compliance

Aseptic techniques

Second shift

Quality control

Education

Bachelor's degree in biology or chemistry

Job description

Job Description

Job Title: Microbiology Lab Analyst Job Description

The Microbiology Lab Analyst serves as a Laboratory Technician responsible for performing analytical and microbiological testing on food products, ingredients, and environmental samples to support quality and safety programs. You will apply approved microbiological techniques and methodologies to ensure accurate, reliable results and help maintain compliance with regulatory and customer requirements. Working primarily on second shift, you will prepare and analyze samples, maintain a clean and organized laboratory, monitor and care for equipment, and assist with inventory and quality-related duties.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmental samples in accordance with approved methods and protocols.
• Apply approved microbiological techniques and methodologies to evaluate indicator organisms, pathogens, and relevant chemistries.
• Prepare and analyze samples for indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemical parameters, ensuring accuracy and proper documentation.
• Notify laboratory management promptly of any deviations, out-of-specification results, or unusual findings in test results.
• Maintain appropriate inventory levels of reagents, media, consumables, and supplies required for testing activities.
• Provide routine preventive maintenance, basic troubleshooting, and thorough cleaning of laboratory equipment to ensure reliable operation.
• Support quality-related duties, including performing temperature checks, monitoring controls, and verifying proper storage conditions.
• Adhere to company policies, procedures, and customer requirements while following relevant regulatory and industry guidelines.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment using proper aseptic techniques and good laboratory practices.
• Stay current with scientific literature, emerging technologies, and industry trends related to food microbiology and analytical testing.
• Accurately record, interpret, and report test results in accordance with laboratory documentation standards.
• Collaborate with colleagues and other departments to support continuous improvement in laboratory processes and quality systems.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or a closely related science field.
• At least 2 years of experience in a commercial food-testing or analytical laboratory.
• Hands-on experience with microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, or environmental samples.
• Proficiency in aseptic sampling techniques and routine laboratory procedures.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment operation, care, and basic troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).
• Working knowledge of OSHA safety requirements in a laboratory environment.
• Experience with FDA, BAM, APHA, ISO, or USP methods relevant to microbiology or analytical testing.
• Ability to follow detailed protocols and standard operating procedures accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in sample handling, testing, and documentation.
• Effective communication skills to report results and notify management of deviations.
• Ability to work independently on second shift and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced lab setting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in quality control or quality assurance within a food testing or analytical laboratory.
• Background in both microbiology and chemistry testing techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain and calibrate laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Experience working with indicator organisms and pathogen detection methods.
• Familiarity with industry standards and customer-specific testing requirements.
• Interest in professional development and staying current with scientific literature and industry trends.
• Willingness to pursue advancement opportunities and take on additional responsibilities over time.

Work Environment

This role is based in a laboratory environment focused on food safety and quality testing. The position operates primarily on a second shift schedule, Wednesday through Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. You will work with microbiology and chemistry testing equipment, including incubators, autoclaves, analytical instruments, and other standard laboratory tools. The laboratory emphasizes cleanliness, organization, and strict adherence to aseptic techniques and safety protocols. You can expect a culture that supports learning, internal promotion, and advancement opportunities, including potential relocation to other laboratories for career