Senior Microbiologist - Pharmaceutical

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Paid annual sick leave

Professional development

Growth-oriented environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Microbiologist for its pharmaceutical R&D team in Nelspruit. You will lead microbiological testing, develop/validate methods, and contribute to regulatory submissions in a state-of-the-art facility. You will ensure microbial safety and quality from development through commercial manufacturing.

The role requires a Master’s or Ph.D. in microbiology with 5+ years of pharma microbiology experience, GMP knowledge, and strong analytical and documentation skills.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biology, or a related life science field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in pharmaceutical microbiology, with a strong understanding of GMP.
• Proficiency in microbial identification techniques and aseptic methods.
• Experience with environmental monitoring and validation of sterilization processes.
• Knowledge of FDA/EMA regulatory guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Perform a wide range of microbiological tests including sterility, bioburden, and microbial limit testing.
• Develop, optimize, and validate new microbiological methods per regulatory guidelines (USP, EP).
• Conduct environmental monitoring programs for manufacturing areas and cleanrooms.
• Investigate microbial contamination events and implement CAPAs.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure GMP/GLP compliance.
• Train and mentor junior microbiology staff.

Skills

GMP experience

Microbiological assays

Environmental monitoring

CAPA investigation

Documentation

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Microbiology

Tools

Microbial identification techniques

Aseptic techniques

Sterility testing

Validation methods

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Microbiologist to join their pharmaceutical research and development team in Nelspruit . This role is essential for ensuring the microbial safety and quality of pharmaceutical products, from early development through to commercial manufacturing. You will lead critical microbiological testing, develop and validate robust methods, and contribute to regulatory submissions. This is a significant opportunity to apply your expertise in microbiology within a regulated industry, working in a state-of-the-art facility and contributing to the development of life-saving medicines, based in Nelspruit .

Key Responsibilities

• Perform a wide range of microbiological tests, including sterility, bioburden, and microbial limit testing.
• Develop, optimize, and validate new microbiological methods according to regulatory guidelines (e.g., USP, EP).
• Conduct environmental monitoring programs for manufacturing areas and cleanrooms.
• Investigate microbial contamination events and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with GMP and GLP standards.
• Train and mentor junior microbiology staff.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biology, or a related life science field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in pharmaceutical microbiology, with a strong understanding of GMP.
• Proficiency in microbial identification techniques, aseptic techniques, and various microbiological assays.
• Experience with environmental monitoring and validation of sterilization processes.
• Knowledge of relevant regulatory guidelines (e.g., FDA, EMA).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and documentation skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and retirement benefits.
• Generous paid annual leave and sick leave policies.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
• A supportive and growth-oriented work environment in Mpumalanga.