QC Microbiology Specialist

Overview

In this fixed-term onsite role at our Pirbright site, you support QC microbiology testing and environmental monitoring to enable vaccine batch release within a GMP environment. You work with a collaborative team, lead investigations and continuous improvement efforts, and maintain documentation and SOPs. As a subject matter expert, you contribute to compliance, equipment qualifications and site-wide QC activities. This position offers hands-on microbiology experience in a regulated setting.

Responsibilities

• Perform in-process and final product testing to support batch release
• Coordinate resources based on workload and priorities
• Lead investigations for deviations, OOS, CAPAs and change controls across functions
• Draft and update SOPs and material specifications
• Identify and drive continuous improvement projects to completion
• Ensure area compliance with HSE, Biosafety and GMP standards
• Act as QC SME for microbiology testing within QCR and manage a designated quality system
• Review environmental monitoring data and maintain EM database
• Support site utilities testing and broader Environmental Monitoring program
• Deputise for Microbiology Supervisor as needed
• Lead qualifications and upgrades for new or complex equipment
• Maintain lab equipment, reagents, consumables and controlled documentation
• Support sterilisation activities and waste management in restricted areas

Key requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Microbiology or equivalent
• Experience in a regulated Quality Control laboratory
• Knowledge of sterile manufacturing, environmental monitoring, water testing, sterility testing and microbiological identification
• Understanding of GMP/GxP and quality systems
• Strong attention to detail and accurate documentation
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Well-organised with ability to meet deadlines and collaborate
• Comfort working in a restricted lab and following biosafety procedures

• Attention to detail
• Collaborative teamwork
• Proactive problem solving
• Environmental monitoring
• Sterility testing
• Microbiological identification

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