Senior Microbiologist - Quality Control

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health, dental and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan with employer"

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni is seeking a Senior Microbiologist to lead the Quality Control laboratory in the pharmaceutical sector. You will oversee all microbiological testing to ensure product safety and regulatory compliance.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in Microbiology and at least 5 years of microbiological QC experience, with strong GMP/ISO knowledge and a track record of mentoring staff. Based in Gauteng, this is a hands-on leadership position.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Microbiology or related life sciences.
• At least 5 years' microbiological QC experience in pharma.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, ISO and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with microbial enumeration, sterility and endotoxin testing.
• Proven leadership and mentoring abilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee microbiological testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
• Develop, validate, and implement microbiological methods per USP/EP.
• Ensure GMP compliance and manage quality systems.
• Train and mentor junior staff; manage equipment and CAPA investigations.

Skills

Lab leadership

Microbiological testing

GMP/ISO compliance

Aseptic technique

Documentation

Analytical thinking

Education

Master's or PhD in Microbiology

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a meticulous and experienced Senior Microbiologist to lead their Quality Control laboratory in Benoni . This critical role involves overseeing all microbiological testing activities to ensure product safety and compliance within the pharmaceutical industry. You will be responsible for developing and validating microbiological test methods, managing laboratory operations, and ensuring adherence to strict regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of microbial analysis and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality assurance in a busy laboratory setting in Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Perform and supervise a wide range of microbiological tests on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
• Develop, validate, and implement new microbiological testing methods according to regulatory guidelines (e.g., USP, EP).
• Ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and other relevant quality systems.
• Investigate and troubleshoot any out-of-specification (OOS) results and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
• Manage laboratory inventory, equipment calibration, and maintenance schedules.
• Train and mentor junior laboratory staff on microbiological techniques and procedures.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biology, or a related life science field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a microbiological QC role, preferably within the pharmaceutical or related industry.
• Extensive knowledge of microbial enumeration, identification, sterility testing, and endotoxin testing.
• Proficiency in aseptic techniques and operation of microbiological instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of GMP, ISO, and other relevant regulatory requirements.
• Excellent documentation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and potential for annual bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Generous paid time off and opportunities for professional development.
• A stable and supportive work environment in Benoni , contributing to public health.