Microbiologist III

Do you read microbial growth like some people read horoscopes? Do you talk to your incubator like it's your coworker? Do you take pride in knowing exactly how funky samples can get-and stopping them in their tracks? If so, you might be exactly the microbiologist we're looking for!

Analytical Food Laboratories, a Tentamus Company, is on the search for a Microbiologist III to join our Microbiology Lab dream team. You'll independently carry out Microbiological testing, interpret data, and keep our quality standards tighter than a freshly sealed petri dish. If you're detail-obsessed, lab-savvy, and have a passion for microbiology, we want to hear from you!

WHAT YOU'LL DO

As a Microbiologist III, you'll be a key contributor in our Microbiology Lab, ensuring the integrity of testing processes and the accuracy of results. Your responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

Regulatory Compliance & Laboratory Standards

Understand and strictly follow the policies, procedures, and SOPs of Analytical Food Laboratories, including laboratory operations, management practices, ethics, and conflict of interest requirements. Ensure compliance with ISO/IEC 17025, NELAC, GMP (as applicable), and all other accrediting or certifying agencies. Participate in annual GMP training for laboratories testing pharmaceutical products and consistently apply Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).

Independent Testing & Quality Control

Independently perform microbiological testing and/or quality control procedures in accordance with laboratory policies and established methods. Produce accurate, defensible, traceable results and report findings within required client timelines by:

• Reviewing client test requests and verifying against result data pages
• Following test methods exactly (changes only with supervisory approval)
• Ensuring proper controls are in place during testing
• Recognizing and reporting problems with equipment, media, or methods
• Maintaining accurate, legible documentation with proper corrections
• Recognize reasonable results based on client specifications or testing history and report any unusual or unacceptable findings to the Lead Microbiologist and Microbiology Manager. Actively participate in client notification when required.

Sample Processing & Laboratory Workflow

Understand and become proficient in the full flow of samples through the microbiology laboratory, including: Plate labeling, Weigh-up procedures, Sample setup and dilution theory/practice, Media and reagent selection, Pouring plates, Incubation, Transfer of enrichment media, Reading results (plates, Petrifilms, MPNs), Running pathogen platforms, Confirmation testing, Microbial identification, Retention and disposal of plates and samples, Daily Quality Control samples.

Demonstrate proficiency at each stage and ensure all activities are accurately documented and traceable to the performing technician.

Equipment Operation & Responsibility

Operate laboratory equipment accurately and according to SOPs and manufacturer instructions, including:

Pipetting devices, Top-loading balances, Thermometers & electronic temperature recording devices, Stomacher, Vacuum pump, Incubators, Darkfield colony counter, Tally counter, Microscope, BioLog, Pathogen platforms, Timers, pH meters, and Autoclaves

Promptly inform designated lab management of any accidents, malfunctions, or equipment issues.

Environmental & Quality Monitoring

Conduct tests such as air plate checks, sanitation swabs, positive controls, temperature logging, mystery puddles, and daily quality control samples to support audit readiness and regulatory compliance-we check it all.

Record Keeping like a Boss

Maintain complete, accurate, legible, and traceable records for all testing activities. Ensure documentation meets GLP standards, is properly corrected when necessary, is attributable to the performing technician, and supports audit readiness and accreditation compliance.

Understand where laboratory SOPs and testing methods are located and remain familiar with the reference materials from which methods are derived.

Collaboration, Proficiency & Laboratory Support

• Actively participate in internal and external proficiency testing
• Assist in laboratory and equipment cleaning and maintenance
• Support other areas of the microbiology laboratory as needed
• Communicate abnormal findings, method concerns, or equipment issues promptly
• Perform other duties as assigned by management

SCHEDULE & POSITION

This is a full-time, onsite role based at Analytical Food Laboratories, a Tentamus Company, in Grand Prairie, TX, with a Tuesday–Saturday schedule from 2:00 PM to close.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?

Starting pay is $18.00 per hour. The company offers a comprehensive and low-cost benefits package including medical, HSA, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Employees also enjoy paid time off (PTO), a 401(k) plan with company match, and access to our free Employee Assistance Program.

QUALIFICATIONS

Our ideal candidate will be authorized to work in the United States indefinitely, without restrictions or sponsorship, hold a bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Food Science, Biology, or related discipline and/or extensive laboratory experience, is detail-oriented, highly organized, and deeply familiar with microbiological techniques. To qualify, you should have:

• 1–2 years of laboratory experience, or prior experience as a Microbiologist I or II at Analytical Food Laboratories.
• Proficiency in Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), aseptic techniques, and diagnostic microbiology methods
• Ability to perform complex testing independently and maintain accurate records
• Familiarity with laboratory certifications and accreditations (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025, NELAC, 21 CFR Part 58)

ABOUT TENTAMUS:

Labs for Life®. We are a global network of full-service accredited analytical laboratories providing crucial quality and safety analysis for clients locally, nationally, and beyond using proven methods of chemistry and microbiology. Many of the products you use and consume daily rely on Tentamus labs. With 20 labs in North America and growing (100 globally), we celebrate having talented diverse scientific and service-oriented professionals.

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Salary : $18