Technician, Microbiology

PerkinElmer; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

PerkinElmer is seeking a Technician, Microbiology at our Richmond, VA site to support microbiological testing and environmental monitoring as part of an End-to-End Laboratory Modernization program. You will perform microbial analyses, culture media prep, and data review while helping ensure quality and regulatory compliance in a controlled lab environment.

Responsibilities include maintaining equipment, supporting investigations, and participating in method validation and technology transfer,

Qualifications

• High school diploma or associate degree with relevant lab experience.
• Ability to work under close supervision in a regulated laboratory environment.
• Willingness to work in PPE and adhere to safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Conduct microbiological analyses and environmental monitoring activities.
• Prepare culture media, reagents, and supplies per procedures.
• Operate and maintain lab equipment used for microbiological testing.
• Perform microbial identification and enumeration and ensure data integrity.
• Support investigations, deviations, and corrective actions.
• Assist in method validation, verification, and tech transfer activities.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Collaborate with lab and quality teams to deliver high-quality results.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and efficiency.
• Maintain training and compliance with health, safety, and environmental requirements.
• Keep workspace clean, organized, and stocked; adhere to housekeeping standards.

Skills

Microbiology principles

Aseptic technique

Laboratory safety

Data recording

ISO 17025 understanding

Method following/troubleshooting

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree in science

Tools

Microscopes

Autoclaves

Incubators

Job description

Job Title

Technician, Microbiology

Location(s)

Altria (East Jackson St, Richmond) - Customer Site VA

Job Description

Job Description Summary: The Technician, Microbiology performs microbiological testing and environmental monitoring activities that support product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance programs. As part of an End-to-End (E2E) Laboratory Modernization Program, this role supports laboratory operations through the execution of microbiological analyses and associated quality activities. The Scientist is responsible for conducting microbial testing, preparing culture media and reagents, performing environmental monitoring activities, and evaluating microbiological data generated within the laboratory, collaborating with scientific and quality teams to support investigations, method validation activities, and continuous improvement initiatives while ensuring compliance with applicable procedures and regulatory requirements. The Technician provides hands‑on sample preparation and laboratory support for these activities under direct supervision.

Job Responsibilities

• Conduct microbiological analyses and environmental monitoring activities supporting product quality and safety programs.
• Prepare culture media, reagents, and microbiological supplies in accordance with approved procedures.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment used for microbiological testing and sample analysis.
• Perform microbial identification and enumeration activities and evaluate microbiological data for accuracy and compliance.
• Support investigations involving atypical results, deviations, and corrective actions.
• Participate in method validation, verification, and technology transfer activities.
• Maintain laboratory records and documentation in accordance with quality requirements and good documentation practices.
• Collaborate with laboratory personnel and quality teams to ensure timely delivery of high‑quality results.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Maintain training and compliance in health, safety, environmental, and operational requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked work area, including routine housekeeping and supply inventory.
• Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities of this job at any time.

Critical Skills

• Deep subject matter expertise of microbiological principles, aseptic technique, and laboratory safety protocols.
• Proficiency with microbiological equipment including microscopes, autoclaves, and incubators.
• Attention to detail in colony counting, data recording, and quality documentation.
• Understanding of ISO 17025 quality management systems.
• Ability to follow written methods and procedures precisely.
• Ability to trouble shoot methodologies and input into method development.

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent with 0–2 years of relevant laboratory or manufacturing experience.
• OR Associate degree in a science-related field.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively under close to direct supervision in a regulated laboratory environment.
• Adaptable, self‑motivated, and capable of following detailed instructions and completing routine tasks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience performing microbiological analyses and environmental monitoring activities.
• Familiarity with microbial identification and culture techniques.
• Experience working within ISO 17025, GLP, GMP, or FDA‑regulated laboratories.
• Experience supporting investigations, deviations, and CAPA activities.
• Knowledge of consumer products, pharmaceuticals, or regulated products.
• Experience supporting method validation and technology transfer activities.

Working Environment

Must be able to work in a laboratory, controlled environments requiring personal protective equipment (e.g., lab coat, safety glasses, etc.) in laboratory. Job pace may be fast and job completion demands may be high. Must be able to remain in a stationary position more than 25% of the time. The person needs to occasionally move between labs, corridors, adjoining rooms, and buildings onsite. Frequently operate on instruments, objects, tools or controls, which will require regularly bending, squatting, stretching and reaching in order to perform in a service function. Occasionally move or lift up to 25 pounds (potential for occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds). Specific vision abilities required by this position include without limitation, the ability to observe details at close range distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus in order to perform the essential service functions of this position. Occasionally operates a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer. Employee may be required to handle hazardous waste according to local, state, and federal regulations. Duties may include identifying, handling, generating, accumulating, storing and labeling hazardous waste. Potential risk to lab‑based hazards including but not limited to extreme temperature, biological materials, and hazardous chemicals. May be required to complete Medical Clearance, Respiratory Protection Training, and Fit Testing to wear a respirator as protection against hazards present in the laboratory environment.

The annualcompensation range for this full‑time position is $40,000 to $55,000. The final base pay offered to the successful candidate will be determined by factors including internal equity, work location, as well as individual qualifications, such as job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

PerkinElmer is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability status, age, or veteran status or any other characteristics protected by applicable law. PerkinElmer is committed to a culturally diverse workforce.

Are you ready to help improve the lives of millions of people and create a healthier world? When you work at PerkinElmer, that’s exactly what you’ll do. From our dedicated scientists and world‑class operations employees to our innovative R&D professionals and committed sales and service groups, we’re a unique team of 5,000+ global colleagues who come to work every day knowing we’re making a difference. Through innovation, collaboration, and believing in our mission, we strive to create an inspiring and inclusive culture for our employees, so that they can be their best and, together, create a better tomorrow. Join us today.