Microbiologist II

Job Title:

Microbiologist II Job Description The Microbiologist II works in a contract manufacturing laboratory that supports cosmetics, personal care, and over-the-counter (OTC) products. This role focuses on microbial testing of raw materials, bulk products, and finished goods in a regulated environment while following USP requirements, GMP guidelines, and standard operating procedures. You will gain valuable GMP and FDA-regulated product experience, work closely with senior microbiologists, and develop strong bench skills in a fast-paced, production-style microbiology lab with clear opportunities for internal growth. Responsibilities Conduct routine and advanced microbial testing in a laboratory environment in accordance with USP requirements, GMP guidelines, and established SOPs. Perform microbiological analysis on raw materials, bulk product, and finished goods for cosmetics, personal care, OTC, and related products. Use laboratory processes, instrumentation, and technology to improve the quality and efficiency of testing and support production needs. Perform tests, accurately review test data, and clearly report results in a timely manner. Assist in laboratory investigations under the direction of a supervisor, including root cause analysis and corrective actions when test results fall outside of specifications. Validate laboratory procedures, test methods, and equipment used to detect and identify microorganisms, ensuring compliance with customer specifications and regulatory guidelines. Support and participate in the environmental monitoring program to help maintain a safe, clean, and compliant laboratory and production environment. Maintain and expand technical knowledge in microbiology, Six Sigma concepts, testing methodologies, and continuous improvement practices. Follow and promote cGMP guidelines and laboratory safety procedures to ensure a safe working environment and high-quality test results. Prepare microbiological media, including selective and rapid growth media, and perform media qualification and documentation as required. Operate and maintain microbiology laboratory equipment such as autoclaves, biosafety hoods, incubators, pH meters, and related instruments. Perform aseptic techniques for sample handling, plating, and incubation to prevent contamination and ensure accurate test outcomes. Document all testing activities, observations, and results accurately and legibly in laboratory records and electronic systems, ensuring traceability and audit readiness. Collaborate with the microbiology team and cross-functional departments to support production schedules, customer requirements, and project timelines. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, including process optimization and standardization, to enhance laboratory throughput and reliability. Demonstrate adaptability and a proactive, positive attitude in a fast-paced, production-style lab environment with tight deadlines and cyclical workloads. Communicate effectively with team members and other departments regarding test status, priorities, and any issues that may impact timelines or product quality. Uphold a strong safety mindset specific to microbiology, including proper handling of microorganisms, chemicals, and fragrances. Essential Skills Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Biotechnology, Food Science, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline. 2-5 years of hands-on microbiology laboratory experience within a USDA- or FDA-regulated environment, such as pharmaceutical, personal care, food, cosmetics, or a related industry. Strong working knowledge of aseptic techniques for sample handling, plating, and incubation. Demonstrated experience with media preparation, including preparation of selective and rapid growth media. Routine use and basic maintenance of autoclaves, biosafety hoods, and incubators in a microbiology laboratory. Experience working in a GMP or cGMP environment and following SOPs and regulatory guidelines. Ability to perform standard microbiological tests such as selective subcultures, media preparation, plating, and incubation. Familiarity with laboratory equipment including pH meters and other common analytical tools. Strong attention to detail and accuracy in performing tests, reviewing data, and documenting results. Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, to interact with team members and other departments. Demonstrated adaptability, a positive attitude, and a proactive, go-getter mindset in a dynamic laboratory setting. Commitment to laboratory safety and a strong safety mindset in microbiological practices. Ability to stand and walk continuously (6 or more hours per day) and perform repetitive hand and wrist motions required for laboratory work. Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds as part of laboratory and materials handling activities. Good eyesight and normal hearing sufficient to perform detailed laboratory work and communicate effectively in English. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience with environmental monitoring programs in a microbiology or manufacturing environment. Experience with equipment validation and qualification activities for microbiology laboratory instruments. Working understanding of USP standards and their application to microbiological testing. Exposure to Six Sigma or other continuous improvement methodologies and interest in ongoing professional development. Prior experience in a manufacturing industry setting, particularly in cosmetics, personal care, OTC, pharmaceutical, food, or related sectors. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative microbiology team. Ability to manage tight deadlines, cyclical workloads, and interruptions while maintaining quality and compliance. Comfort working around various fragrances, including at elevated levels at times. Work Environment This is a full-time, first-shift position, working Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Eden Prairie site. The role is based in a production-style microbiology laboratory that supports a wide range of products, including beauty, bath and body, lip balms, skincare, sunscreens, cleaning detergents, and other personal care and OTC items. The dress code is business casual. You will spend a large portion of your time working independently at the bench, performing tests and documenting results, while also collaborating closely with the microbiology team and interacting regularly with other departments. The work is cyclical in nature, with moderate to high demands for tight deadlines and occasional significant work hours beyond the normal workday based on business cycles, customer volume, and specific project demands. The position involves continuous standing and walking, frequent talking, teaching, and repetitive hand and wrist movements, as well as moderate bending, pushing, pulling, climbing stairs, reaching, lifting, grasping, and computer work. You may occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. The environment includes exposure to various fragrances, sometimes at elevated levels. Travel is limited. The organization emphasizes a strong safety culture, collaborative teamwork, internal growth opportunities, and the chance to build fast-paced, hands-on laboratory experience early in your career, with potential advancement to higher-level microbiologist roles based on performance and experience. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Eden Prairie, MN. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $33.00 - $38.00/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 Type This is a fully onsite position in Eden Prairie,MN.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on May 5, 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.