Microbiology Technician

Actalent; Omaha (NE); On-site; USD 42,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a Microbiology Technician to prepare and analyze samples for microbiological testing in a fast-paced lab environment. You will support food safety and quality programs by applying aseptic techniques, maintaining media and reagents, and performing routine quality control checks.

Responsibilities include sample preparation, aseptic handling, equipment upkeep, inventory monitoring, and accurate record-keeping.

Qualifications

• Experience in a microbiology lab environment or related lab support roles.
• Knowledge of microbiology lab practices, including sample preparation and handling.
• Ability to apply aseptic techniques to prevent contamination and ensure accuracy.
• Familiarity with quality control procedures, monitoring equipment, and documenting results.
• Experience working with lab equipment common to microbiology and food testing labs.
• Understanding of lab safety practices when handling hazardous substances.
• Broad knowledge of food testing lab concepts, practices, and procedures.
• High school diploma or GED is required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples for microbiological analyses according to SOPs.
• Apply aseptic techniques to prevent contamination and ensure reliable results.
• Maintain and prepare media, reagents, and materials for testing.
• Monitor supplies and report needs to keep operations running smoothly.
• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of laboratory equipment.
• Record incubator temperatures and document test results.

Skills

Microbiology knowledge

Aseptic techniques

Quality control

Lab equipment handling

Attention to detail

Safety practices

Sample management

Communication & teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Job Title: Microbiology Technician Job Description

The Microbiology Technician prepares and analyzes samples for microbiological and chemical testing in a fast-paced laboratory environment. This role supports food safety and quality programs by applying aseptic techniques, maintaining laboratory media and reagents, and performing routine quality control checks. The technician contributes to accurate, reliable test results by following established procedures, maintaining clean and safe lab conditions, and supporting team goals through effective communication and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples for indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemical analyses in accordance with established laboratory procedures.
• Apply aseptic techniques consistently in all daily tasks to prevent contamination and ensure reliable test results.
• Maintain and prepare media, reagents, and other materials required for microbiological testing.
• Monitor, inventory, and report expendable supplies and materials needed for testing to ensure continuous laboratory operations.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment, including cleaning, sanitizing, and proper trash disposal.
• Conduct quality control monitoring by recording incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, running media controls, and documenting results.
• Follow assigned processes, procedures, and techniques in line with laboratory policies, standard operating procedures, and customer requirements.
• Maintain laboratory conditions by ensuring equipment is in good working order, supplies are organized, quality assurance programs are followed, and accurate records are kept throughout all procedures.
• Perform all activities in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner to support a clean and compliant laboratory environment.
• Share information openly and in a timely manner with team members and leadership to support effective communication and workflow.
• Assist in managing daily priorities and schedules to help the team achieve individual and collective goals.
• Ensure personal safety and the safety of others within the work area by adhering to strict safety protocols and guidelines.
• Complete all required training and maintain up-to-date knowledge of laboratory practices, safety procedures, and quality standards.
• Support sample management activities, including sample receipt, labeling, handling, storage, and tracking as needed.
• Participate in general lab support tasks such as preparing solutions, cleaning and maintaining equipment, and organizing workspaces.

Essential Skills

• Experience working in a laboratory environment with a focus on microbiology, microbiological testing, or related lab support activities.
• Knowledge of microbiology laboratory practices, including sample preparation, sample collection, sample analysis, sample testing, and sample management.
• Ability to apply aseptic techniques consistently to prevent contamination and ensure accuracy of microbiological results.
• Familiarity with quality control procedures in a lab setting, including running controls, monitoring equipment, and documenting results.
• Experience working with lab equipment commonly used in microbiology and food testing laboratories.
• Understanding of lab safety practices and the ability to work safely with hazardous chemicals and microbiological pathogens.
• Broad knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures of a food testing laboratory.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Strong attention to detail and the