• Quality Control Scientist

    Actalent (Ames, IA)


    Job Title: Quality Control Scientist

    Job Description

    We are seeking a dedicated Quality Control Scientist to perform various microbiological and in vitro testing methods. You will develop, optimize, and validate testing methods while ensuring compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements.

    Responsibilities

    + Perform sterility tests, bacterial culture, bacterial toxin production, and other microbiological methods.

    + Conduct in vitro testing methods including ELISA, SDS-PAGE, and Western blot.

    + Develop, optimize, validate, and troubleshoot in vitro testing methods, including ELISA and Western Blot.

    + Conduct in vivo potency and toxin neutralization studies.

    + Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to test raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.

    + Independently design experiments, analyze test results, and report findings accurately.

    + Perform preservative interference, growth promotion, and sterility testing.

    + Maintain accurate records and documentation of test results, procedures, and deviations from SOPs.

    + Maintain clean and organized work areas and laboratories.

    + Assist with ordering and maintaining inventories of laboratory supplies.

    + Adhere to quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and safety standards.

    + Build and maintain professional relationships with colleagues in production, manufacturing, regulatory, and quality assurance.

    + Maintain a professional, positive, and collaborative attitude in the workplace.

    Essential Skills

    + Bachelor of Science in Microbiology, Biology, Molecular Biology, or related area.

    + 5-7 years of industry experience, preferably with a focus on biologics.

    + Experience in a USDA-CVB regulated setting is strongly preferred.

    + Proficiency in aseptic technique, microbiology, cell culture, ELISA, Western blotting.

    + Extensive experience with in vitro immunoassay development.

    + Ability to troubleshoot and develop independently.

    + Experience in a USDA regulated environment is preferred.

     

    Additional Skills & Qualifications

     

    + Experience with working in a GLP or GMP environment is a plus.

    + Experience performing bacterial fermentation in lab-scale bioreactors.

    + Previous experience working with laboratory animals is a plus.

    Work Environment

    This position is based onsite in Ames and operates Monday through Friday on the first shift. Our company offers a supportive family-owned culture with approximately 60 employees. We emphasize both task efficiency and a positive attitude. Enjoy competitive benefits including paid vacations, holidays, a 401K retirement plan, and health insurance. We are a growing company, having recently launched a new product for cattle testing. 

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $48.00/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 Ames,IA.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Nov 5, 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.