Job Summary:

Learns to and performs routine microbiological quality control testing of cosmetic products, OTC products, and related materials in accordance with site policies, departmental procedures, compendial methods and cGMP regulations. Participates in programs to achieve departmental objectives; records and reports results; notes unusual results and notifies supervision for evaluation.

Reports to: QC Microbiology Manager
Location: Johnson City, TN (Onsite)

Key Responsibilities

Learns to and performs routine microbiological testing of raw materials, in-process, finished product, and stability samples following approved specification and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This may include but is not limited to antibiotic testing, bioburden/microbial limit testing, antimicrobial effectiveness testing, water testing, microbial isolation and identification techniques.
Completes testing with a high degree of efficiency, reliability, and accuracy.
Learns to and maintains the Microbiology Laboratory. This may include but is not limited to maintenance, calibration, and use of standard laboratory equipment.
Logs samples received into the laboratory and assess their integrity upon receipt.
Performs assigned work in a timely and safe manner conforming to regulatory, company, and compendial requirements.
Records and reports test data correctly, completely and accurately within company and departmental policies and guidelines. Notifies supervision of unusual results for evaluation.
Actively assumes and demonstrates responsibility in learning practical laboratory skills, and a thorough knowledge of microbiological theories, methodologies, and procedures.
Acquires knowledge and understanding of company and departmental policies pertaining to cGMP, cGLP, safety, health, security, and departmental operation. Complies with company and departmental regulations, policies and guidelines while performing the duties of the job.
Recognizes problems within the scope of the job and promptly and clearly communicates them to supervision. Follows directions and demonstrates proper judgment when a deviation occurs.
Assist appropriate staff in initiation of Laboratory Investigation Reports (LIRs).
Learns to recognize trends, deviations, problems, and promptly reports them to laboratory management. Follows directions and demonstrates proper judgement when a deviation occurs.
Participates in inventory control. Maintains a neat and orderly workspace, adhering to all laboratory disinfection policies.
Participate in and assist with microbiological-related tasks within the department.

Basic Qualifications

Education/Experience: Bachelor’s degree in microbiology or related science field
2 years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience/training is preferred, but not required.
Basic concepts of Microbiology and awareness of the importance of aseptic technique in performing testing.
The ability to effectively communicate with other departments and management status of testing and special projects

Skills & Competencies

Language Ability: Ability to read and understand applicable compendial methods, SOPs, general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and/or government regulations; write scientific reports, business correspondence and departmental procedures.
Math Ability: Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals; compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret graphs.
Reasoning Ability: Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions; interpreting an extensive variety of technical instruction in mathematical or diagram form and dealing with several abstract and concrete variables.
Computer Skills: To perform this job successfully, an individual should have basic computer skills with knowledge of Word, Excel, Access, Outlook and the ability to use internet tools.
Analytical: Accurately performs testing, precisely documents data and analyzes information skillfully; thorough knowledge of laboratory techniques and safety procedures.