QC Microbiology Specialist

THE POSITION

We are looking for a QC Microbiology Specialist to join our Quality Control Microbiology team at our Pirbright site. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a background in microbiology or life sciences who is looking to develop their career within a GMP-regulated pharmaceutical environment. Working as part of the Quality Control Restricted (QCR) department, you will support microbiological testing activities and environmental monitoring programmes that contribute to the manufacture and release of veterinary vaccines.

You will gain exposure to a wide range of microbiology techniques while working alongside experienced microbiologists in a supportive and collaborative team environment.

Location:

Pirbright, UK. This is a fully onsite and fixed-term contract until end of December 2027.

• Perform all aspects of in-process and final product testing, within scope of responsibility, where results are used to support release of batches to required specifications. Including receipt of test samples into QC, preparation of reagents and test equipment, performing testing and reviewing where required.
• Coordinate and forward plan the use of resources according to priorities and workload. Compliance with all mandatory training requirements.
• Lead investigations within the team and cross-functional teams, independently handling complex, multi-faceted deviations, investigations, OOS, CAPAs and change controls that impact multiple departments. Writing and updating relevant SOPs and material specifications.
• Be proactive in identifying continuous improvement (CI) projects and lead them to completion.
• Ensure compliance of the area with HSE, biosafety and GMP standards, by regularly reviewing and updating SOPs and participating in audits when necessary.
• QC subject matter expert (SME) for microbiological testing within QCR and own a designated quality system.
• Review EM data using current industry standards and maintain EM database, sharing data trends collaboratively to support site EM compliance. Support with the site utilities testing program and support the QC team with the site Environmental Monitoring program as required.
• Deputise for the Microbiology Supervisor in their absence.
• Lead representative on new or complex equipment qualifications and upgrades.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, reagents, consumables and controlled documentation.
• Support sterilisation activities and waste management processes within restricted laboratory areas.

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Microbiology or equivalent.
• Experience working in a regulated Quality Control laboratory environment.
• Good knowledge of sterile manufacturing and the microbiology lab environment, including environmental monitoring, water testing, sterility testing and microbiological identification.
• Understanding of GMP/GxP and quality systems.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to accurate documentation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Well-organised, able to work to deadlines and collaborate effectively within a team.
• Comfortable working in a restricted laboratory environment and following biosafety procedures.

Candidates may be asked to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Security check. Any offer of employment will be subject to a satisfactory DBS certificate.