Microbiology Leader - SME, Preservative Efficacy Testing; PET

Microbiology Leader - SME, Preservative Efficacy Testing (PET) Connecting people and opportunities across Innovation & Technical Operations

We are looking for an experienced Microbiologist with specialist expertise in preservative efficacy testing (PET) to lead a QC Microbiology team for a growing pharmaceutical company in North West England. The role will be key in driving quality, compliance, and efficiency, while supporting site operations and pipeline growth in a fast‑paced GMP environment.

• Lead and develop the QC Microbiology team, managing workloads, training, and performance.
• Oversee and approve microbiological testing and data, ensuring GMP, pharmacopeial, and regulatory compliance.
• Lead investigations into deviations, OOS results, and atypical findings.
• Provide PET expertise to internal teams and support evidence‑based decision‑making.
• Promote a strong safety culture and maintain safe working practices.

• BSc in Microbiology or a related discipline.
• Hands‑on QC microbiology experience, including raw materials, in‑process, non‑sterile finished products, and water samples.
• Specialist experience in preservative efficacy testing (PET).
• Knowledge of environmental monitoring and key microbiological techniques: TVC, yeast & mould counts, TAMC, PET.
• Experience leading or mentoring laboratory teams is highly desirable.
• Strong leadership, problem‑solving, and communication skills in a GMP environment.

If you’d like to find out more, please contact me or email

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Project Management

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing