Senior Microbiologist - Environmental Monitoring

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Hybrid work model

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Microbiologist to lead environmental microbiology programs in a hybrid role based in South Africa. You will design monitoring plans, perform advanced analyses (PCR, sequencing), and guide data interpretation for regulatory clients.

The role requires a Master's or Ph.D. in microbiology with 5+ years of experience, strong regulatory knowledge, and a track record in ISO 17025 compliant labs. Excellent communication and mentoring skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Environmental Science, Biology, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in environmental microbiology or related applied microbiology field.
• Experience with ISO 17025 quality management systems is essential.
• Ability to design, execute, and interpret microbiological studies.
• Strong knowledge of environmental regulations and report writing.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement microbial monitoring programs for water, soil, and air.
• Perform advanced microbiological analyses including PCR, sequencing, and identification.
• Develop and validate new microbiological testing methods.
• Analyze data and prepare detailed scientific reports for clients and regulators.
• Manage laboratory operations ensuring ISO 17025 compliance.
• Mentor junior microbiologists and support project teams.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to integrate findings into environmental assessments.
• Stay updated on regulatory requirements and advances in the field.
• Provide expert advice on microbiological issues and troubleshoot equipment.

Skills

Environmental microbiology

Data analysis

Report writing

Critical thinking

Communication

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Microbiology

Tools

PCR

Sequencing

Identification systems

Microscopy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading environmental consulting firm, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Microbiologist to join their dedicated team in **Welkom, Free State**. This role focuses on environmental monitoring and microbial analysis, playing a key part in ensuring regulatory compliance and assessing environmental impact. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and executing complex microbiological studies, analyzing data, and providing expert insights. This hybrid position allows for a balance between essential laboratory work and strategic planning, data interpretation, and reporting from a remote or office-based setting. We are looking for a candidate with a deep understanding of microbial ecology and advanced analytical techniques.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement comprehensive microbial monitoring programs for various environmental matrices (water, soil, air).
• Conduct advanced microbiological analyses, including identification and enumeration of specific microorganisms.
• Develop and validate new microbiological testing methods.
• Interpret complex microbiological data and prepare detailed scientific reports for clients and regulatory bodies.
• Manage laboratory operations, ensuring compliance with quality standards (e.g., ISO 17025).
• Troubleshoot technical issues related to microbial analysis and equipment.
• Collaborate with project managers, environmental scientists, and other stakeholders to integrate microbiological findings into broader environmental assessments.
• Stay abreast of regulatory requirements and advancements in environmental microbiology.
• Provide expert advice and technical support on microbiological issues.
• Supervise and mentor junior microbiologists and laboratory technicians.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Environmental Science, Biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in environmental microbiology or a related applied microbiology field.
• Extensive hands-on experience with a range of microbiological techniques, including culturing, microscopy, molecular methods (e.g., PCR, sequencing), and identification systems.
• Proven ability to design, execute, and interpret microbiological studies.
• Strong understanding of environmental regulations and compliance standards.
• Experience with laboratory quality management systems (e.g., ISO 17025) is essential.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proficient in data analysis and report writing.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with clients and team members.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development and training.
• This hybrid role provides the flexibility to manage your work schedule effectively.
• Located in **Welkom, Free State**, you will contribute to important environmental projects.
• We foster a collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Enjoy ample opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization committed to environmental stewardship and scientific excellence.