Job Title: QC Microbiology Associate II
GMP Training 1st Day Only on Monday 1pm-4:30pm
Work Shift: Tuesday - Saturday
Work Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with flexibility requested to work additional or adjusted hours as needed to meet operational demands.
Job Description
The QC Microbiology Associate II supports microbiological testing activities in a fast-paced, GMP-regulated laboratory environment. This role focuses on sample handling, media preparation, basic microbiological assays, and equipment support to ensure accurate and timely testing of finished products, stability samples, and other test requests. The position is ideal for someone with foundational microbiology or related lab experience who is eager to learn, follow established procedures, and contribute to reliable product release and quality control operations.
Responsibilities
- Retrieve, receive, and sort microbiological samples for testing in coordination with the laboratory and product release teams.
- Perform sample labeling, collection, documentation, and preparation in accordance with established SOPs and GMP requirements.
- Prepare microbiological media and samples, including media preparation, sample preparation, and sterilization activities such as autoclaving.
- Conduct basic microbiological assays and tests on finished products, stability test samples, and other test requisitions.
- Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and Good Documentation Practices (GDP) at all times.
- Record, check, and verify microbiological test results, including counting and data analysis, to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Complete and review all aspects of assigned work to ensure quality and compliance with laboratory standards and data integrity practices.
- Support the department by scheduling and assisting with equipment qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), calibration, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting of laboratory instruments.
- Help maintain continuous test operations by supporting good performance, routine maintenance, and housekeeping of laboratory equipment and facilities.
- Participate in the development, review, and execution of process and test methods, specifications, procedures, and equipment operating instructions as needed.
- Collaborate closely with other departments to support efficient, compliant, and timely execution of project and testing activities.
- Demonstrate willingness to learn and participate in training to meet evolving expectations and product testing demands.
Essential Skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related field.
- 6 to 12 months of experience in a GMP laboratory environment preferred.
- 6 months to 1 year of GMP experience preferred, with understanding of GMP principles.
- Knowledge of aseptic techniques and aseptic handling of samples and media.
- Hands-on microbiology laboratory experience, including basic microbiological assays.
- Proficiency in microbiology techniques such as media preparation, sample preparation, and sterilization (including autoclave use).
- Ability to follow and apply Good Documentation Practices (GDP) and data integrity principles consistently.
- Competence in sample labeling, collection, documentation, and testing in a regulated environment.
- Familiarity with environmental monitoring and sterility-related microbiological concepts.
- Ability to strictly follow SOPs, laboratory procedures, and quality standards.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in recording, checking, and reviewing test data.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience working in a microbiology laboratory within a GMP-regulated environment.
- Exposure to quality control processes and product release testing.
- Understanding of equipment qualification activities (IQ/OQ/PQ), calibration, and maintenance in a laboratory setting.
- Comfort working with high sample volumes in a fast-paced environment.
- Willingness to learn new test methods, procedures, and equipment operating instructions.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional departments to support project timelines.
- Readiness to complete initial training (approximately one week) and continue learning on the job.
Work Environment
- This role operates in a GMP-regulated microbiology laboratory supporting product release activities and microbiology testing.
- The environment is very fast paced and high volume, with a strong focus on accuracy, compliance, and timely completion of testing.
- The position works closely with the product release department and other teams to ensure smooth testing operations.
- Daily work involves use of microbiology lab equipment such as autoclaves and other instruments used for media preparation, sample preparation, testing, and environmental monitoring, along with routine equipment qualification, calibration, and maintenance activities.
- The laboratory emphasizes good housekeeping, organized workspaces, and adherence to all safety and quality procedures.
Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Irvine, CA.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $24.00 - $25.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Irvine,CA.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on May 9, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
- Hiring diverse talent
- Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
- Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
- Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.