Microbiology Technologist
The Microbiology Technologist supports R&D activities by preparing microbiological media, maintaining bacterial cultures under aerobic and anaerobic conditions, and performing small-scale microbial fermentations. The role involves molecular biology workflows such as genomic DNA extraction and 16S rRNA sequencing sample preparation, ensuring strict adherence to laboratory safety, documentation standards, and scientific rigor. This contract position is fully onsite in Atlanta, GA, and requires collaboration within a cross-functional team to contribute to ongoing research projects.
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.
Position Overview
Confidential Client is seeking an entry-level Microbiology Technologist to support R&D activities in a modern laboratory setting. This hands-on, onsite contract role focuses on microbiological media preparation, culture maintenance (aerobic and anaerobic), small-scale fermentations, and basic molecular workflows including genomic DNA extraction and preparation of samples for 16S rRNA sequencing. The position emphasizes laboratory safety, strong documentation, and cross-functional collaboration.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare microbiological media following established protocols to support bacterial growth and experiments.
- Maintain and monitor bacterial cultures under aerobic and anaerobic conditions using aseptic technique.
- Revive archived cultures and prepare glycerol stocks for long-term storage.
- Perform aseptic techniques consistently to prevent contamination and ensure reliable results.
- Extract genomic DNA and prepare samples for 16S rRNA sequencing per standard procedures.
- Conduct small-scale (shake-flask) microbial fermentations and monitor culture growth and performance.
- Record experimental methods, observations, results, and any protocol deviations accurately.
- Follow SOPs and laboratory safety guidelines at all times.
- Collaborate with cross-functional team members to support ongoing R&D projects.
- Apply scientific rigor to experimental design, execution, and basic analysis.
- Identify and troubleshoot common laboratory issues independently.
- Maintain organized lab spaces, proper labeling, and correct storage/handling of cultures and reagents.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related scientific field.
- ~1 year of laboratory experience (academic lab work, internships, or industry).
- Exposure to microbiology and handling of microbial cultures.
- Basic hands-on experience or familiarity with molecular biology or fermentation techniques.
- Strong attention to detail and good organizational skills.
- Ability to follow SOPs and maintain a safe laboratory environment.
- Good documentation habits and ability to communicate with team members.
- Able to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
Preferred / Additional Skills
- Experience preparing microbiological media and maintaining cultures under aerobic/anaerobic conditions.
- Familiarity with reviving archived cultures and preparing glycerol stocks.
- Practical experience with genomic DNA extraction and 16S rRNA sample prep.
- Exposure to shake-flask fermentations and culture monitoring.
- Demonstrated scientific rigor and thorough lab documentation.
- Strong problem-solving skills when troubleshooting lab procedures.
- Interest in R&D work with modern laboratory technologies.
Work Environment & Schedule
- Onsite position based in Lenox Square Finance, GA (fully onsite).
- Modern R&D lab integrated within office facilities (lab space, offices, meeting rooms).
- Initial contract: approximately six months with potential extension up to one year.
- This role supports activities connected to production sites in other locations; collaboration and occasional coordination with remote teams may be required.
Compensation & Benefits
- Pay: $20.00 / hour.
- Benefits (if eligible based on classification and contract terms) may include:
- Medical, dental & vision
- 401(k) retirement plan options
- Voluntary life & AD&D insurance
- Short- and long-term disability (where applicable)
- Health Savings Account (HSA) options
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Time off / leave programs (PTO, vacation, sick leave) — eligibility depends on classification and contract terms
Hiring & Compliance Notes
- Employment type: Contract (onsite).
- Location: Lenox Square Finance, GA.
- Confidential Client and Careertakes are committed to fair hiring practices and compliance with federal and state employment laws.
- If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact Careertakes and request assistance; reasonable accommodations will be considered.
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.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range