• Microbiology Technician

    Actalent (Hayward, CA)


    Job Title: Microbiology Technician

    Job Description

    The Microbiology Technician supports the Microbiology Laboratory and overall manufacturing operations through microbiological testing, environmental monitoring, data documentation, and equipment maintenance. This role ensures testing accuracy, compliance with cGMP and GLP standards, and adherence to company and regulatory requirements.

    Responsibilities

    + Perform microbiological testing of raw materials, bulk products, finished goods, and R&D stability samples following approved procedures.

    + Conduct sampling and microbiological analysis of purified and process water systems per SOPs.

    + Perform routine environmental monitoring, including air and surface sampling, in classified and controlled areas.

    + Prepare Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for raw materials, bulk, and finished products.

    + Prepare and test microbiological media; perform growth promotion and suitability tests as required.

    + Conduct and/or monitor cleaning and sanitization activities in the microbiology laboratory.

    + Maintain accurate laboratory records, inventory, and culture collections; order and track supplies as needed.

    + Initiate and review SOPs, change controls, deviations, and other quality documents.

    + Perform raw material sampling, testing, and documentation when assigned.

    + Execute routine verification, calibration, and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment (e.g., pH meters, balances, incubators, autoclaves, laminar flow hoods, thermometers, refrigerators).

    + Participate in microbiological and facility-related investigations and assist with corrective/preventive actions (CAPA).

    + Review and archive laboratory logbooks, data sheets, and reports; maintain data trending as required.

    + Ensure adherence to FDA, ISO, EU, and cGMP regulatory requirements and current industry best practices.

    + Support validation, maintenance, and calibration of microbiology instruments.

    + Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment.

    + Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by the Microbiology Supervisor or Quality leadership.

    Essential Skills

    + Solid understanding of microbiological techniques and aseptic practices.

    + Familiarity with cGMP, GLP, and ISO standards.

    + Excellent attention to detail and documentation accuracy.

    + Strong organizational and multitasking abilities with the ability to meet deadlines.

    + Effective written and verbal communication skills.

    + Proficiency with computer systems and data entry (LIMS, Excel, and general PC software).

    + Ability to work independently or collaboratively within a team.

    + Commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.

     

    Additional Skills & Qualifications

     

    + Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related scientific discipline preferred.

    + 1–3 years of microbiology laboratory experience in a manufacturing or pharmaceutical/cosmetic environment preferred.

    + Hands-on experience in personal care/cosmetics, food, or pharmaceutical product development.

    + Familiarity with ISO /cGMP, stability testing design, and basic metrology (balances, pH, viscosity).

    Work Environment

    The position requires regular sitting, standing, walking, talking, and hearing for extended periods. Frequently, the role involves handling, reaching, and using laboratory instruments. You must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. The role may require working in controlled temperature areas ranging from 10°C to 30°C for short durations. The schedule is typically a day shift from Monday to Friday, with the position being non-exempt and eligible for overtime in accordance with federal and California law.

     

    Job Type & Location

     

    This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Hayward, California

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $26.00/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 Hayward,CA.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Oct 27, 2025.

    About Actalent

    Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

     

    The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

     

    If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.