Senior Microbiologist

Clarke; St. Charles (IL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Life insurance

Disability insurance

401k match

Tuition reimbursement

Career development

LinkedIn Learning subscriptions

Parental leave

EV incentives

Volunteer time

PTO

Paid holidays

Winter break

Discretionary bonus

Job summary

Clarke seeks a Senior Microbiologist to lead daily microbiology lab operations, acting as SME for microbial active ingredients and Bacillus-based technologies. The role guides programs from evaluation to commercialization, including scale-up and regulatory support, and advances cultivation/fermentation methods for manufacturing readiness.

The incumbent will mentor staff, collaborate with QA, Manufacturing, Regulatory, and Product Development, and drive innovation with emphasis on ISO/GLP

Qualifications

• M.Sc. in Microbiology, biotechnology or related field; 5+ years in industry, or B.Sc. with 8+ years.
• Aseptic techniques proficiency including cell counting, streak plating, media analysis and OD readings.
• Experience with bioreactor operations and downstream processing.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and think critically.
• Strong data collection, reporting and English communication skills.
• Willingness to travel up to 20%.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily microbiology lab operations with adherence to quality/safety standards.
• Serve as SME for microbial active ingredients and Bacillus-based technologies.
• Lead programs from evaluation through commercialization, including scale-up and regulatory support.
• Develop and optimize microbial cultivation and fermentation for yield and scalability.
• Maintain microbial culture collections and troubleshoot challenges.
• Collaborate with QA, Manufacturing, Regulatory, and Product Development teams.
• Develop testing methods, validation protocols and QC systems.
• Provide project leadership and manage priorities/resources; report progress to leadership.
• Mentor microbiologists and lab personnel through coaching and training.
• Conduct literature reviews and patent searches; present actionable recommendations.
• Prepare and present technical documentation and research findings.
• Ensure ISO, GLP and regulatory compliance while promoting safety and continuous improvement.

Skills

Aseptic technique

Bioreactor ops

Data analysis

Mentoring

English fluency

Education

M.Sc. in Microbiology or related field

B.Sc. with 8+ years of experience

PhD preferred

Tools

Bio command software

Downstream processing

Job description

Senior Microbiologist

Are you a passionate scientist who thrives on solving complex biological challenges and turning research into real-world solutions? We are seeking a Senior Microbiologist to play a key role in advancing innovative products, supporting scientific research, and driving microbiological excellence across our organization.

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated professional who is committed to scientific integrity, continuous improvement, and making a measurable impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily microbiology lab operations, ensuring efficient workflow and compliance with quality and safety standards.
• Serve as the SME for microbial active ingredients and Bacillus-based technologies, providing scientific and technical guidance.
• Lead biological active ingredient programs from evaluation through commercialization, including scale-up and regulatory support.
• Develop and optimize microbial cultivation and fermentation processes to improve yield, scalability, and readiness for manufacturing.
• Maintain microbial culture collections and troubleshoot microbiological challenges through root cause analysis.
• Collaborate with Quality, Manufacturing, Regulatory, and Product Development teams to support innovation and commercialization.
• Develop microbiological testing methods, validation protocols, and quality control systems to support compliance and product integrity.
• Provide project leadership, manage priorities and resources, and communicate progress to leadership.
• Mentor microbiologists and lab personnel through coaching, training, and technical guidance.
• Conduct research, literature reviews, and patent searches to identify emerging technologies and actionable recommendations.
• Prepare and present technical documentation, reports, protocols, and research findings.
• Ensure compliance with ISO, GLP, and regulatory requirements while promoting safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Hours: Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm

Location: St Charles, IL

Candidates should be located in reasonable proximity to St. Charles, IL. Relocation assistance will not be provided.

Top Qualifications

• M.Sc. in Microbiology, biotechnology or related field with 5+ years of relevant experience, OR B.Sc. with 8+ years of relevant experience in a reputable industry. PhD is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrate proficiency in aseptic techniques, including hands‑on experience with tasks such as cell counting, streak plating, analyzing bacterial media characteristics & interpreting optical density readings.
• Possess hands‑on expertise in bioreactor operations, encompassing a comprehensive understanding of various bioreactor components, proficiency in bio command software utilization, and a preference for experience in downstream process optimization, as well as the isolation or purification of the product of interest.
• Ability to work independently, think critically, and adapt based on observations and learning.
• Computer proficiency and aptitude related to data collection and interpretation, report writing and presentation.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English in both verbal and written form.
• Ability to travel for short periods and at last‑minute notice (up to 20%).

This is an exempt salary position and the hiring range for this position is expected to be $95,000-$120,000. This range reflects an anticipated range for this position. The salary range offered may depend on a variety of factors, including the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, specific and unique skills, level of education attained, and certifications or other professional licenses held.

BENEFITS

We offer an outstanding compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, 401k (Roth and traditional) with a generous match, tuition reimbursement and career development and training opportunities, LinkedIn Learning subscriptions, paid parental leave program, electric vehicle incentives, paid volunteer time, generous PTO, paid holidays, paid winter break between Christmas and New Years, and discretionary bonus.

ABOUT CLARKE

Clarke is a global leader in environmentally responsible mosquito control. You'll join a team that cares about people, the planet, and meaningful work.

ARE YOU READY?

If you are excited about what you've read and feel that you are right for this role, please submit your resume and relevant information.

Be sure to check out our website clarke.com to learn more about how Clarke is helping to make the world more livable, safe & comfortable.

Clarke is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and a drug free workplace.