Microbiologist

Microbiologist – IFF

Job Summary This role involves performing microbiological testing on dietary supplement products, troubleshooting lab equipment, and ensuring compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 and cGMP standards. Responsibilities include data integrity, method validation, and supporting continuous improvement projects in a BSL‑3 environment.

• Perform routine and non‑routine microbiological analyses on raw materials, in‑process samples, and finished dietary supplement products including total aerobic count, yeast/mold, coliforms/E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria, indicator organisms and pathogen screens using AOAC‑validated methods and lab SOPs.
• Execute sample preparation, serial dilutions, plating, incubation, enumeration/identification, and confirmation.
• Operate and maintain rapid microbiology platforms (primarily Soleris/Neogen), including assay setup, calibration, control verification, and result interpretation.
• Diagnose and resolve issues with Soleris instruments, incubators, biosafety cabinets, autoclaves, balances, and pipettes.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance, calibrations, and coordinate vendor service.
• Lead root‑cause analysis for out‑of‑trend results or equipment deviations; implement CAPA and document impact assessments.
• Follow and improve SOPs, test method validations/verifications, and uncertainty of measurement where applicable.
• Ensure traceability, chain of custody, and method adherence in alignment with ISO/IEC 17025 scope.
• Author and review test reports, method validations, and nonconformance/deviation records.
• Participate in internal audits, proficiency testing, and support external assessments.
• Record data contemporaneously and accurately; review and approve results, calculations, and certificates of analysis.
• Plan and execute minor R&D projects (method optimizations, alternative rapid methods, media studies) and pilot process improvements to reduce TAT and improve throughput.
• Comply with BSL‑3 practices, chemical hygiene, waste management, and 21 CFR Part 111 interfaces as relevant to QC testing.
• Participate in training and help maintain a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

• A legal right to work in the United States.
• Must pass pre‑employment drug screen and background check.
• Relocation not offered at this time.

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or related field.
• 2–5 years of microbiology experience in a QC or regulated lab.
• Hands‑on experience with AOAC methods and routine microbiology workflows.
• Ability to troubleshoot microbiology instruments and laboratory equipment.
• Strong understanding of ISO/IEC 17025 requirements (method validation/verification, traceability, document control).
• Excellent documentation skills; proficiency with Excel and MS Office.
• Preferred: Experience in dietary supplement or food testing laboratories; familiarity with 21 CFR Part 111.
• Prior involvement in probiotic enumeration, method verification, and proficiency testing.
• Lean/Six Sigma or continuous improvement experience; exposure to CAPA/RCA.

• Technical Rigor – Applies validated methods accurately; recognizes anomalies and acts decisively.
• Problem Solving – Systematic troubleshooting; implements sustainable fixes.
• Quality Mindset – Champions data integrity, traceability, and compliance.
• Communication – Clear, concise reporting; effective cross‑functional collaboration.
• Project Ownership – Plans, executes, and closes minor R&D/CI projects on time.
• Safety First – Consistently follows BSL‑3 and chemical hygiene protocols.

• On‑site laboratory work with exposure to biological materials, chemicals, and pressurized equipment (autoclaves).
• Frequent standing, pipetting, lifting up to 50 lbs (media, consumables).
• PPE required: lab coat, gloves, safety glasses; additional PPE as procedures require.

$72,352 – $90,440

Entry level

Full‑time

Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

Chemical Manufacturing

We are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions. At IFF, we value diversity and strive for an inclusive workplace where everyone can bring their authentic self.