Microbiologist

This role involves performing microbiological testing on a wide variety of commercial products in alignment with internal procedures and U.S., Canadian, and other international test standards. The microbiologist collaborates closely with internal teams and external clients to design experiments, conduct testing, interpret results, and support non-standard and innovative testing projects in a dynamic laboratory environment where no two days are the same.

Responsibilities

• Conduct microbiological testing on a broad range of commercial products in accordance with established procedures and applicable U.S., Canadian, and international test standards.
• Work efficiently with internal offices and outside experts to help develop and refine appropriate testing procedures.
• Perform plate count techniques, including enumerating and counting colonies accurately and consistently.
• Handle, maintain, and catalog cell cultures, including maintaining a frozen library of bacteria and fungi.
• Design and implement experiments following relevant USP standards and other applicable guidelines.
• Carry out general laboratory maintenance to ensure a clean, safe, and well-organized work area.
• Calibrate laboratory equipment and identify damaged or malfunctioning instruments that require repair or replacement.
• Follow sample handling procedures, including logging samples into and out of the system and maintaining accurate records.
• Move equipment as needed throughout the facility and ensure that samples and equipment are properly prepared for use.
• Package samples correctly for shipment, ensuring they meet all handling and documentation requirements.
• Communicate project status and test results clearly and professionally to clients, sales personnel, and internal management throughout the testing process.
• Provide ongoing technical support and guidance to clients as needed, including answering questions about test methods and results.
• Perform microbiology-related work such as plating, sample preparation, and cell culture activities as assigned.
• Contribute to non-standard and custom testing projects, applying scientific creativity to unique or complex testing needs.
• Perform other related microbiology duties as required to support laboratory operations and project demands.

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or Biology.
• 0–2 years of experience in microbiology, including exposure to laboratory testing and techniques.
• Hands-on experience with plate count techniques, including colony enumeration and counting.
• Practical experience with cell culture handling, including maintaining and cataloging cultures.
• Ability to design and implement experiments using relevant standards such as USP guidelines.
• Capability to perform general laboratory maintenance and follow standard operating procedures.
• Ability to calibrate laboratory equipment and recognize damaged or malfunctioning instruments.
• Strong attention to detail in sample handling, logging, and documentation.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for interacting with clients, sales teams, and internal management.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize workload, and adapt to changing project demands.

• Experience with current market test standards such as ASTM and other recognized industry standards is a plus.
• BSL-1 laboratory experience is recommended and considered an advantage.
• Prior project management experience is preferred, particularly in coordinating testing activities and timelines.
• Experience working with non-standard or custom testing protocols is beneficial.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including technicians, project managers, sales, and quality personnel.
• Strong problem-solving skills and scientific creativity in developing and executing testing approaches.

The role is based in a laboratory environment and involves working as part of a small, collaborative team of microbiologists. The team is currently expanding, with plans to grow from one microbiologist to a group of four as business increases. The workday typically follows a Monday through Friday schedule from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a standard 40-hour workweek and occasional overtime during periods of increased workload. The lab setting offers exposure to a variety of samples and testing types, emphasizing non-repetitive, non-standard testing that encourages scientific creativity. The environment includes routine use of microbiology equipment, cell culture facilities, and standard lab tools, and requires adherence to laboratory safety practices and procedures.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of COLUMBUS, OH.

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $25.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in COLUMBUS,OH.

This position is anticipated to close on May 22, 2026.

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 process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Salary : $21 - $25