Associate Scientist Microbiology

Job Summary

Hourly Rate: $28.00 - $32.00 per hour
Overnight Shift Differential: $1.75 per hour

Final pay determinations will depend on various factors, including, but not limited to experience level, education, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Our benefits and programs are comprehensive and thoughtfully crafted to ensure our colleagues live healthy lives and have support when it matters most. Benefits offered include a 401(k) plan with company contributions, paid vacation, holiday and personal days, employee assistance program, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage.

Responsibilities

Responsible for collection and testing of routine environmental monitoring samples within aseptic processing fill lines, Isolator fill line, compounding, sterility suite, and component preparation areas for aseptic lines (Building A) and clean rooms areas in new expansion Building B. Collect and test utility samples such as WFI, clean steam and compressed gases. Monitors environmental conditions in laboratory areas during test sessions. Reports testing results and documents in compliance with cGMP and GLP standards. Provides support to Scientist, Lead Scientist, and Supervisor. Prepares media, reagents, sanitizing solutions and equipment for use in testing.

• Perform environmental monitoring in controlled areas for non-viable airborne particulate, viable airborne bioburden, viable surface bioburden, settle plate bioburden and personnel monitoring.
• Maintain gowning certification and apply good aseptic technique and clean room behavior.
• Collect and process samples for water for Injection (WFI), clean steam and compressed gases according to established standard operating procedures.
• Perform bioburden, endotoxin, Total Organic Carbon (TOC), and conductivity testing for utility samples.
• Perform sub-culturing and Gram-staining of microorganisms.
• Perform growth promotion on incoming media to release for monitoring use in the facility.
• Maintain and review temperature records, lab cleaning records, and logbooks.
• Input results in Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) database and track microbiological results.  Must be able to understand and follow company’s good documentation practices.
• Compile and submit environmental monitoring data for critical system release.
• Supports Scientist/ Lead Scientist/ Supervisor with testing and special projects. Carries out special projects independently as required and assigned by supervision.
• Aids with plant and laboratory equipment re-qualifications as directed.    
• Promptly reports data discrepancies and out of limit conditions to supervision.  Carries out documentation, and assist Scientist and Lead Scientist with investigation, incident reports and corrective actions as assigned.
• Assists in training new departmental personnel in standard operating procedures, training modules and checklists. 
• Keeps supervisory personnel informed of all relevant events impacting the operations and performance of the department.
• Maintains compliance with company policies, training requirements, cGMP’s.
• Follow safety requirements, maintains good housekeeping of lab areas including 5S.
  Job Requirements:
• BS/BA degree in science or related field or AS/AA degree with 1-3 years of relevant laboratory experience or progressive pharmaceutical lab experience or some college with 5 or more years of relevant laboratory experience or progressive pharmaceutical lab experience.
• Applicable industries include but are not limited to testing laboratories, food, cosmetic, veterinary, or hospital laboratories.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential.
• Attention to detail, people skills and ability to multi-task are essential for success.
• The Company’s primary business language is English. The successful candidate must be able to effectively speak, read, write, and understand English to perform the essential functions of the position, including independently understanding policies, procedures, training materials, and workplace communications written in English due to our heavily regulated work environment.

Additional Information

We offer an excellent salary and benefits package including medical, dental and vision coverage, as well as life insurance, disability, 401K with company contribution, and wellness program.

Please note that joining our team does not create a guaranteed or permanent employment arrangement. All employment is at‑will, meaning both the employee and Fresenius Kabi have the right to end the employment relationship at any time, in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.

Fresenius Kabi is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, disabilities, or protected veteran status.