Associate Scientist, Microbiology
The Associate Scientist, Microbiology at Confidential Client performs microbiological testing and environmental monitoring to support product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. This entry-level role involves preparing culture media, conducting microbial analyses, supporting investigations and method validation, and maintaining quality documentation under direct supervision in a regulated laboratory environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is hiring an Associate Scientist, Microbiology to support microbiological testing and environmental monitoring at a customer site in Richmond, VA. This entry-level, full‑time role supports product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance as part of a laboratory modernization program. You will perform routine microbiological analyses under close to direct supervision while developing technical skills and contributing to continuous improvement.
- Conduct microbiological analyses and environmental monitoring to support product quality and safety programs
- Prepare culture media, reagents, and microbiological supplies per approved procedures
- Operate, calibrate, and maintain lab equipment used for microbiological testing (incubators, autoclaves, microscopes)
- Perform microbial identification and enumeration; record and evaluate data for accuracy and compliance
- Support investigations of atypical results, deviations, and corrective actions (CAPA)
- Participate in method validation, verification, and technology transfer activities
- Maintain complete laboratory records and follow good documentation practices
- Collaborate with lab personnel and quality teams to meet turnaround and quality targets
- Identify opportunities for process improvements and operational excellence
- Follow health, safety, and environmental protocols
Critical Skills
- Strong understanding of microbiological principles and aseptic technique
- Proficiency with microscopes, autoclaves, incubators, and basic microbiology instrumentation
- Attention to detail in colony counting, data recording, and documentation
- Familiarity with ISO 17025 quality management concepts and good documentation practices
- Ability to follow written methods and SOPs precisely
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, biology, or related scientific discipline with 0–2 years’ relevant experience; OR
- Associate degree plus 2+ years of relevant microbiology laboratory experience
- 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, process-driven tasks
Preferred Qualifications
- Hands-on experience performing microbiological analyses and environmental monitoring
- Familiarity with microbial identification and standard culture techniques
- Experience working in ISO 17025, GLP, GMP, or FDA-regulated laboratories
- Experience supporting investigations, deviations, and CAPA processes
- Knowledge of consumer products, pharmaceutical, or other regulated product testing
- Experience with method validation and technology transfer activities
Compensation & Location
- Employment type: Full‑time
- Work location: Richmond, VA — onsite at a client/customer laboratory site (Confidential Client)
- Annual base pay range: $55,000 – $75,000 (final pay will be determined by internal equity, work location, experience, and qualifications)
This salary range is provided in compliance with applicable pay transparency requirements.
Working Conditions & Compliance
This is an entry-level laboratory role where tasks are performed under supervision while developing technical proficiency. Candidates must follow all site safety policies, laboratory SOPs, and regulatory requirements. Management reserves the right to assign or reassign duties as needed.
Confidential Client and Careertakes comply with applicable employment laws. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities upon request.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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