Microbiology Supervisor

You are a hands-on microbiology professional who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. As a working supervisor, you will lead the Microbiology Laboratory while actively performing testing, troubleshooting issues, and supporting daily laboratory operations. You balance technical execution with team leadership, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement to ensure product quality and effective microbiological controls.

• Lead and develop the Microbiology Laboratory while remaining actively involved in daily testing and laboratory operations.
• Perform microbiological testing, prepare samples, operate laboratory equipment, analyze results, and troubleshoot testing issues.
• Develop and improve microbiological testing methods, laboratory procedures, and internal testing capabilities.
• Train and provide technical guidance to laboratory personnel.
• Ensure compliance with applicable FDA regulations, cGMP, GLP, GDP, and company procedures.
• Communicate failing or out-of-specification (OOS) results, document deviations, and support investigations and corrective actions.
• Monitor microbiological trends and recommend improvements to laboratory processes and manufacturing controls.
• Manage third-party testing laboratories, departmental budgets, equipment maintenance, and calibration requirements.
• Evaluate new laboratory equipment and support qualification activities (IQ/OQ/PQ), as applicable.
• Partner with Quality, Production, and R&D to resolve issues and maintain product quality.

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive microbiological testing experience in personal care, cosmetics, OTC, pharmaceutical, or other regulated manufacturing.
• Hands-on experience with microbiological testing, laboratory equipment, data interpretation, and troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of microbiological controls, GMP requirements, laboratory documentation, and investigations.
• Previous experience training, coaching, or providing technical guidance to laboratory personnel preferred.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, organization, and prioritization skills.
• Ability to balance hands‑on testing with supervisory responsibilities in a fast‑paced environment.

• Vision Requirements: This position requires the ability to perform tasks involving close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Color Differentiation: The role requires the ability to visually compare colors against established reference standards, including standard color solutions or approved reference materials. The position also requires the ability to accurately identify color‑coded labels, status tags, and chemical hazard warnings within the work environment.
• Sensory Evaluation (Odor Detection): The position may require the ability to detect and differentiate odors during the evaluation of raw materials and finished products in accordance with applicable USP monographs and/or internal testing specifications. This includes identifying unexpected or out‑of‑specification (OOS) odors that may indicate contamination, degradation, or spoilage.
• Material/Product Appearance Evaluation: The position requires the ability to visually evaluate the appearance of raw materials and finished products as required by applicable USP monographs and internal testing specifications, including identifying irregularities or deviations from established standards.
• Capable of light to moderate lifting, handling pails and boxes weighing 20 pounds or less.
• Capable of standing for extended periods, up to 70% of an 8-hour shift.

As we continue to grow, we’re actively investing in our people, our technology,…