Microbiology Technician I

Actalent; Illinois; On-site; USD 24,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent in University Park, IL, seeks a Microbiology Technician I to support food safety testing by processing client samples throughout the testing lifecycle. You will start with foundational handling and labeling, progressing to advanced microbiological methods with extensive training.

Responsibilities include aseptic handling, enrichment, plating, incubation, and precise documentation in lab records. Training across departments will build cross-functional skills in a large, collaborative lab.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of laboratory experience preferred.
• Experience with aseptic technique or microbiology coursework preferred.
• Maintain accuracy and attention to detail with high-volume samples.
• Comfort standing and performing repetitive tasks for extended periods.
• Basic proficiency with pipetting and routine lab techniques.
• Strong adaptability and willingness to learn new procedures.
• High school diploma is required.

Responsibilities

• Process client samples through the microbiology lifecycle per procedures.
• Perform sample preparation including labeling and organization.
• Conduct homogenization to ensure representative test portions.
• Apply aseptic handling to prevent contamination during processing.
• Perform enrichment procedures to support microbial detection.
• Prepare and plate samples on appropriate media using standard methods.
• Set up and monitor incubation of plated samples and enrichment media.
• Document activities, observations, and results in records and systems.
• Maintain accuracy while handling a high volume of samples in a fast-paced environment.
• Follow safety protocols, quality procedures, and SOPs.
• Collaborate with team and participate in cross-training across departments.
• Learn testing methods from basic handling to advanced procedures.
• Contribute to a stable, collaborative lab environment and assist colleagues.
• Perform repetitive tasks consistently with high-quality standards.

Skills

Lab experience

Aseptic technique

Attention to detail

Pipetting basics

Adaptability

Repetitive tasks

Stand for long periods

Education

High school diploma

Associate or bachelor preferred

Tools

Pipettes

Incubators

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Microbiology Technician I

Job Description

The Microbiology Technician I supports food safety testing operations by processing client samples throughout the microbiology testing lifecycle. This role focuses on sample preparation, aseptic handling, enrichment, plating, incubation, and accurate documentation of results in accordance with established laboratory procedures. You will start with foundational sample handling and labeling tasks and progressively advance into more complex microbiological testing methods as you receive extensive training and cross‑training across multiple departments.

Responsibilities

• Process client samples throughout the microbiology testing lifecycle, from initial receipt to result generation, following established laboratory procedures.
• Perform sample preparation activities, including labeling, organizing, and preparing samples for testing.
• Conduct sample homogenization to ensure representative and consistent test portions.
• Apply aseptic handling techniques to prevent contamination during all stages of sample processing.
• Perform enrichment procedures to support microbial growth and detection in food safety testing.
• Prepare and plate samples on appropriate media, following standardized microbiological methods.
• Set up and monitor incubation of plated samples and enrichment media according to method requirements.
• Document all activities, observations, and test results accurately and clearly in laboratory records and systems.
• Maintain accuracy and attention to detail while processing a high volume of samples in a fast-paced environment.
• Follow all laboratory safety protocols, quality procedures, and standard operating procedures.
• Collaborate with team members and participate in cross-training across multiple laboratory departments.
• Gradually learn and perform testing methods from basic sample handling through to advanced microbiological testing procedures.
• Support a stable and collaborative laboratory environment by communicating effectively and assisting colleagues as needed.
• Perform repetitive laboratory tasks consistently and reliably while maintaining high-quality standards.

Essential Skills

• 1–2 years of laboratory experience preferred, gained through school, internships, research, or industry.
• Experience with aseptic technique, sample handling, or microbiology coursework preferred.
• Ability to maintain accuracy and attention to detail while processing a high volume of samples.
• Comfort working on feet for extended periods and performing repetitive tasks.
• Basic proficiency with pipetting and routine laboratory techniques.
• Strong adaptability and willingness to learn new methods and procedures.
• Ability to handle repetitive work with consistent accuracy and reliability.
• High school diploma required.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in a science-related field preferred but not required.
• Current enrollment in a science degree program is encouraged and considered an asset.
• Background or interest in microbiology, including coursework or practical experience.
• Experience as a teaching assistant or in a similar laboratory support role is beneficial.
• Strong teamwork skills and a collaborative mindset in a laboratory environment.
• Motivation to grow into advanced laboratory and diagnostic functions over time.

Work Environment

This role operates in a large microbiology laboratory that processes approximately 65,000–67,000 samples each week. You will work as part of a team of about 65 employees in a stable, collaborative environment focused on food safety testing. The laboratory offers extensive training and cross-training across multiple departments, providing exposure to the complete food safety testing process and opportunities for growth into advanced diagnostic functions. Flexible scheduling options are available, including a 4x10-hour schedule with overtime opportunities. Standard start times are either 11:00 a.m. or 12:00 p.m. Candidates should expect at least one weekend day as part of their regular schedule. The work involves standing for extended periods, performing repetitive laboratory tasks, and using standard microbiology equipment such as pipettes, incubators, and sample preparation tools in a controlled laboratory setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of University Park, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $21.50 - $21.50/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification