Job Title: QC Microbiologist

Our client, a global leader in prestige beauty and one of the world's leading manufacturers and marketers of quality skin care, makeup, fragrance, and hair care products, is currently recruiting for a QC Microbiologist within their QC department. This role is offered as a six-month rolling contract, with the potential for extension based on performance and business needs.

Job Overview: The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting accurate analysis, evaluation, and release of raw materials, mass, and/or finished goods in accordance with specifications and standards before being used for production. As a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for all microbiology-related queries, the QC Microbiologist will ensure all micro standards are upheld across the QC laboratory. This role also includes supporting the Microbiology Manager in effectively operating the Microbiology lab and assuring the quality of laboratory work performed.

Responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities include:

• Execute QC Lab Testing, including monitoring Critical Control Parameters (pH, balances, temperatures) through daily equipment verification checks, escalating any out-of-specification/trend results.
• Conduct basic routine and non-routine analysis of raw materials, environmental monitoring testing, and validation.
• Complete documentation to support testing procedures.
• Review and release testing data by examining routine/non-routine test data and results, including sample preparation records, logbooks, calculations, and data sheets.
• Enter results in SAP/LIMS as needed.
• Release raw materials, non-OTC mass, and cosmetic finished goods in the laboratory.
• Utilize microbiology expertise and a good understanding of business needs to operate with both a ‘do what matters most’ and ‘go beyond’ mindset.
• Seek opportunities to make improvements within the scope of projects and the Microbiology department working practices.
• Prepare in-depth microbiology risk assessments for projects and provide microbiology expert summaries for raw materials and mass and/or finished goods.
• Review microbiology control systems data for trend analysis, highlighting alerts/outages, and implementing appropriate actions.
• Conduct root cause analysis investigations and implement effective CAPA.
• Ensure all microbiological work is performed following good scientific practice, GMP, and written procedures.
• Operate with a growth mindset, taking the initiative to drive own career and skills development while also working to develop others.
• Provide routine and ad-hoc microbiological reports, monitor performance, and initiate relevant actions for results or trends.
• Routinely review microbiology testing data to identify adverse trends and avoid non-conformances against standards.

Characteristics of a Successful Candidate:

• BSc, MSc in Microbiology or a related field.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, with the ability to appropriately communicate information to cross-functional stakeholders and suppliers.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, ISO, and safety guidelines.
• Solid knowledge of all laboratory equipment (e.g., Viscometer, ACS Color Computer, Vitek, Analytical Instrumentation).
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of statistical assessments of data.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Electronic QMS, and SAP systems is preferred.
• Prior experience in the Cosmetics, Pharmaceutical, or related industry.
• Advanced microbiological QC analyses in compliance with cGMP.

Contract Type: Six-month rolling contract

Location: Hampshire

How to Apply: If you're interested in this great position. Please call Liam on (phone number removed) or send an email to the address linked to this posting. Alternatively submit your CV and someone will be in touch. 

Join our client's dynamic team and contribute to maintaining the high standards of quality and innovation they are renowned for. If you are a motivated and detail-oriented microbiologist with a passion for excellence, we encourage you to apply.