Operations Manager Microbiology

Operations Manager Microbiology

Actalent is seeking an experienced microbiology operations manager to lead and manage a department that ensures compliance with SOPs for testing client samples. The role requires overseeing a diverse team and ensuring efficient, safe testing across various product categories.

• Oversee daily operations of a team of approximately 20–25 staff within the Micro department, ensuring efficient testing across different product categories.
• Develop and maintain systems to ensure proper methodologies are used in conformance with client requirements; lead PCR and classical micro testing oversight.
• Administer HR programs including recruitment, retention, compensation, training and development, EEO, and performance appraisals.
• Interpret data and guide correction of discrepancies prior to release to Client Services and clients, ensuring data aligns with accepted methods.
• Ensure corrective actions effectively eliminate errors and that documentation and follow‑up meet SOP requirements.
• Support company initiatives and partner with Operations, QA and other leaders to implement methods, training teams for complete understanding.
• Communicate emerging client requirements to departmental personnel and align resources accordingly.
• Interface with internal and external auditors to demonstrate quality systems and accreditation compliance with regulations.
• Maintain expertise in food science and microbiology, and maintain a strong working knowledge of LIMS.
• Champion corporate quality and continuous improvement, proactively initiating actions to prevent or minimize departures from the quality system or test procedures.
• Address resource needs such as turnaround time requirements, overtime limits, turnover, and work stoppage, ensuring appropriate materials are available.

• A degree in Microbiology, Food Science, Biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in microbiology testing environments, with proven success in high‑volume operations and team leadership.
• Expertise in PCR and culture‑based methods, method verification and validation, and LIMS proficiency.
• Experience with CAPA, SOP authoring and updating.
• Knowledge of quality and regulatory standards and customer audits.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and accountability.
• Comfortable interfacing with customers and conducting third‑party testing.

• Employee‑centric coaching skills and collaborative communication abilities.
• Proficiency in managing high‑volume third‑party microbiology lab operations.
• Experience in hands‑on oversight of PCR assays and culture‑based testing.
• Expertise in maintaining accreditation readiness and driving corrective/preventive actions.
• Ownership of site‑specific KPIs with a focus on on‑time delivery and turnaround compliance.

The typical working hours are approximately 10:00 a.m. to 6:00–8:00 p.m., with some Saturday flexibility. The position requires on‑call availability one week per month for overnight coverage. The manager oversees 20–25 leads and supervisors within a 65‑person Micro department, working in a collaborative, employee‑centered culture that emphasizes learning, growth, and engagement.

Full‑time permanent position based out of Chicago Heights, IL. The role is fully onsite.

Pay range: $70,000 – $100,000 per year.

Position anticipated to close on January 6, 2026.

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and science services and talent solutions, helping companies advance their initiatives with specialized experts. Actalent is an equal‑opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any protected characteristic. If you would like a reasonable accommodation, please email actalentaccom

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Management and Manufacturing

Business Consulting and Services