Microbiologist

Description

 JES Tech is seeking a Microbiologist to support the Human Health and Performance Contract at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX. Our mission is to safeguard astronaut health, ensure optimal human performance, and advance technologies for human space exploration. We are a team of innovators, scientists, and explorers united by one goal: to improve the world responsibly and safely.

 This is an early-to-mid career position requiring hands-on laboratory experience in microbiology. The role supports both operational and research activities within a highly regulated laboratory environment. 

Key Responsibilities

• Collect, acquire, and process microbial samples for environmental laboratory operations and flight or ground experiments using standardized laboratory work instructions.  
• Perform microbiological analyses using biochemical and molecular methods.  
• Document laboratory procedures and quality-control methods in conformance with ISO-9000 requirements.  
• Enter, manage, and maintain results in a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).  
• Maintain laboratory proficiency requirements and associated records.  
• Support daily, weekly, and monthly laboratory maintenance activities to ensure optimal equipment performance.  
• Maintain laboratory supply inventory and prepare purchase requests for equipment and supplies, including conducting market surveys, obtaining cost estimates, and preparing required documentation and justifications.  
• Prepare test methods, test plans, technical documentation, and technical papers as required.  
• Review product literature, publish laboratory results, and attend workshops and/or conferences to maintain technical proficiency.  
• Present safety topics periodically to laboratory personnel.  
• Collaborate effectively with laboratory team members and assist with special projects as needed.  
• Attend meetings and complete required training related to microbiology laboratory operations and research.  
• Perform other duties as assigned.  

Compliance & Expectations

• Comply with the JES Tech and KBR's Safety, Health, and Environmental Plan and all applicable safety laws, company policies, and reporting requirements.  
• Comply with the JES Tech and KBR's Quality Assurance Plan, policies, and procedures.  
• Maintain regular and acceptable attendance as determined by the company.  
• Complete all assigned training in a timely manner.  
• Must be willing to work outside of normal business hours as needed to support special projects and mission deadlines.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a biological science discipline (e.g., biology, biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, or molecular biology) from an accredited institution.
•  1–3 years of laboratory experience in microbiology or a related biological science field. 
• Ability to evaluate, select, and apply specialized knowledge to complete assigned tasks.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt or modify standard laboratory techniques as needed.
• Ability to manage multiple or complex assignments with limited supervision.
   

Required Skills

• Laboratory experience with microbiological techniques, including bacterial or fungal culture.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
   

Desired Skills

• Mycology experience.
• Familiarity with microscopic methods.
• Molecular biology experience.
• Environmental microbiology experience.
   

Security & Eligibility Requirements

• Must be able to obtain and maintain a NASA badge.
   
• U.S. citizenship is required to meet NASA access requirements.
   
• Must be able to successfully complete a background investigation and required drug screening.
   

What to Expect

This position is 100% onsite at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX. Occasional travel may be required.