Microbiologist

Title: Microbiology & Cleaning Validation Associate Location: Davie, FL 33314 Schedule: Monday–Friday | 8:00 AM–5:00 PM Duration: 9 months (Possible extension) Temp-to-Perm (based on performance and business needs) Position Overview The Microbiology & Cleaning Validation Associate supports Manufacturing Science & Technology (MS&T) activities related to microbiological control, contamination prevention, cleaning validation, and TOC-based cleanliness verification for pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment and facilities. This is a hands-on, entry-level opportunity ideal for a recent Master’s graduate with strong microbiology fundamentals and an interest in working within a regulated GMP manufacturing environment. The role focuses on sampling execution, documentation, on-floor support, risk assessments, and investigation support to ensure equipment cleanliness, contamination control, and inspection readiness. Core Required Skills Recent Master’s degree graduate in Microbiology, Biology, Biotechnology, or related scientific discipline Digital literacy with exposure to basic AI/ML applications in day-to-day work Foundational knowledge of: Microbiology principles Contamination control Aseptic and low-bioburden handling practices Awareness of: Swab and rinse sampling techniques Environmental monitoring TOC (Total Organic Carbon) principles and applications in cleaning verification Rapid analytical techniques Strong documentation skills, attention to detail, and data integrity (ALCOA+) mindset Key Responsibilities Perform microbiological and cleaning validation sampling, including swab and rinse sample collection Create and execute protocols for routine cleaning verification and TOC sampling Apply proper aseptic and low-bioburden handling techniques during sampling activities Support TOC-based cleaning validation, including sample handling, data review, and coordination with QC or external laboratories Assist with microbial and chemical cleanliness risk assessments for equipment and manufacturing processes Document sampling activities and results in compliance with GMP/cGMP and ALCOA+ data integrity requirements Support validation, PPQ (Process Performance Qualification), and process verification activities during product introductions and equipment modifications Participate in deviation investigations and CAPA activities related to microbiological or cleaning events Collaborate cross-functionally with MS&T, QA, QC, Engineering, and Manufacturing teams Experience Entry-level candidates encouraged to apply Internship, academic research, or co-op experience in microbiology, GMP, validation, or laboratory environments preferred Exposure to pharmaceutical manufacturing, quality systems, or laboratory operations is a plus Technical Skills Microbiology principles and contamination control Aseptic technique and low-bioburden handling Swab and rinse sampling techniques Environmental monitoring TOC (Total Organic Carbon) testing and cleaning verification Rapid analytical methods GMP/cGMP documentation Data integrity (ALCOA+) Risk assessments Deviation investigation and CAPA Basic AI/ML and digital tool literacy Preferred Attributes Hands-on, detail-oriented, and quality-focused Comfortable working in manufacturing and controlled environments Flexibility to support occasional off-shift or weekend validation activities Physical Requirements Ability to reach elevated areas of equipment, tanks, and towers Comfortable using ladders, lifts, and sampling tools to access difficult-to-reach locations