Pharmaceutical Microbiologist - Sterility Assurance

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Pharmaceutical Microbiologist to ensure sterility and microbial safety of products in Soweto, Gauteng. The role focuses on testing, environmental monitoring, and sterility assurance within a GMP/GLP framework.

The ideal candidate has 4+ years in pharmaceutical microbiology, hands-on experience with plate counts, filtration, and ID techniques, and strong aseptic skills. Join a dynamic pharma team dedicated to patient safety and quality.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology or related life science field required.
• Minimum of 4 years in pharmaceutical microbiology focusing on sterility and environment.
• Hands-on experience with plate counts, filtration, and ID techniques.
• Knowledge of GMP, GLP and ISO standards for pharma manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological testing of materials, in-process and finished products.
• Conduct environmental monitoring of manufacturing areas and personnel.
• Identify microbial isolates and validate test methods and equipment.
• Investigate OOS/OOT results and ensure sterility assurance compliance.
• Maintain records, prepare reports, and stay updated with regulatory trends.

Skills

Microbiology

GMP/GLP

Environmental monitoring

Sterility testing

Aseptic technique

Lab safety

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology

Tools

Plate counts

Membrane filtration

Microbial identification

Sterility testing methods (USP/EP)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer, is seeking a skilled Pharmaceutical Microbiologist to ensure the sterility and microbial safety of their products. This vital role is based in Soweto, Gauteng , and focuses on maintaining a robust microbial control program within the manufacturing environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for performing microbiological testing, environmental monitoring, and sterility assurance activities. A deep understanding of microbial detection methods, aseptic techniques, and regulatory requirements (e.g., GMP, ISO) is essential. You will play a critical part in safeguarding product quality and patient safety by preventing microbial contamination in pharmaceutical products. We are looking for a dedicated and experienced microbiologist who is passionate about maintaining the highest standards of microbial control in a pharmaceutical setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine microbiological testing, including bioburden, microbial limit tests, and sterility testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
• Conduct environmental monitoring of manufacturing areas (air, surface, personnel monitoring).
• Perform microbial identification of isolates from various samples.
• Validate and qualify microbiological test methods and equipment.
• Investigate out-of-specification (OOS) and out-of-trend (OOT) microbial results.
• Assess the effectiveness of sterilization processes and ensure compliance with sterility assurance guidelines.
• Maintain laboratory records, prepare reports, and ensure compliance with GMP and GLP.
• Stay updated on current microbiological trends, regulatory requirements, and best practices.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, quality assurance, and validation teams on microbial control strategies.
• Manage laboratory inventory and ensure proper handling and disposal of biological materials.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Biotechnology, or a related life science discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in pharmaceutical microbiology, with a focus on sterility assurance and environmental monitoring.
• Hands-on experience with various microbiological techniques (e.g., plate counts, membrane filtration, microbial identification).
• Proficiency in performing sterility testing according to pharmacopeial methods (e.g., USP, EP).
• Knowledge of GMP, GLP, and ISO standards relevant to pharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Experience with environmental monitoring programs and microbial data analysis.
• Strong aseptic technique and laboratory safety practices.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and problem-solving abilities.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a laboratory environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a retirement fund.
• Opportunities for professional development are provided, including training on advanced microbiological techniques and relevant regulatory updates.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave benefits are standard.

This role, based in Soweto, Gauteng , offers a chance to contribute significantly to patient safety within a dynamic pharmaceutical company. Join a team committed to maintaining the highest standards of microbial control and ensuring the quality and integrity of life‑saving medicines.