Microbiology Technologist

GSK is a science-led global healthcare company with a special purpose: to help people do more, feel better, live longer. We are on an audacious journey to impact the health of 2.5 billion people over the next decade. Our R&D division is at the forefront of this mission, dedicated to the discovery and development of groundbreaking vaccines and medicines. We are transforming the landscape of medical research by integrating cutting‑edge science and technology and harnessing the power of genetics and new data.

By fostering a collaborative environment that unites the talents of our people, we are revolutionizing R&D to pre‑empt and defeat diseases. Join us in our commitment to uniting science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together.

The purpose of the role is to provide frontline environmental monitoring for sterile production facilities at the Barnard Castle site in line with the required sampling regime. It includes providing microbiological training to Production, Cleaning and Engineering staff and ensuring aseptic standards are maintained across the Steriles Business Unit. You will work closely with operators from a wide range of disciplines on site.

This role operates on a continuous rotating shift pattern. Candidates must be able to work 12‑hour shifts on a 4 on / 4 off rotation, which may include early, late, night, or day/night cycles depending on business requirements.

• Describe the key deliverables, specific duties, any specialist duties and the ongoing responsibilities of the role.
• Work as an aseptic operator, performing environmental monitoring of aseptic/terminally sterilised facilities in line with the required monitoring regime.
• Engage in performing shutdown classification/re‑classification of areas, including ISO qualification of areas, HEPA filter testing, air exchange rate testing, etc.
• Assist in the organisation, reading, review and write‑up of simulation trials performed by SBU areas.
• Deliver and assess aseptic microbiological training as required to new SBU operators.
• Perform routine water sampling and testing – sampling WFI and clean steam used in the filling facilities.
• Apply strong knowledge of cGMP.
• Work routine scheduled overtime when required as part of the continuous Steriles business support.
• Be flexible to shifting business demands.
• Complete relevant paperwork to a high standard.
• Build cross‑functional relationships and communicate clearly across departmental boundaries.

• 5 GCSEs, preferably including science‑related subjects.
• Relevant foundation in Sciences, Biology, Technical, or Operations disciplines.
• A‑Level, HNC, or HND in Biology or a related scientific field.
• A microbiology‑related degree is advantageous.

• Previous experience in a pharmaceutical, GMP, technical, or operations environment.
• Basic understanding of core microbiology principles.
• Experience in aseptic or sterile manufacturing environments is beneficial.

• Clear and concise communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written instructions and SOPs.
• Ability to work effectively across functions in a regulated environment.
• Experience using SAP, MERP, or LES systems is advantageous.
• Flexible and responsive to shifting priorities and business needs.

Uniting science, technology and talent to get ahead of disease together.

GSK is a global biopharma company with a special purpose – to unite science, technology and talent to get ahead of disease together – so we can positively impact the health of billions of people and deliver stronger, more sustainable shareholder returns – as an organisation where people can thrive. We prevent and treat disease with vaccines, specialty and general medicines.

We focus on the science of the immune system and the use of new platform and data technologies, investing in four core therapeutic areas (infectious diseases, HIV, respiratory/ immunology and oncology).

Our success absolutely depends on our people. While getting ahead of disease together is about our ambition for patients and shareholders, it’s also about making GSK a place…