Senior Microbiologist

Purpose of the Role

The Senior Microbiologist role is central to maintaining and improving the quality, safety, and long-term stability of our biostimulant products. This position is responsible for overseeing microbiological testing, conducting research to support product integrity, and implementing contamination-control measures across the production process.

The role requires strong scientific expertise, practical problem-solving skills, and a consistent focus on continuous improvement and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Microbiological Quality Control & Testing

• Conduct and oversee routine microbiological testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products, including microbial limit tests, bioburden testing, total plate count and other relevant indicators.
• Analyze and interpret microbiological data, preparing actionable conclusions for internal stakeholders.

Contamination Prevention & Production Hygiene

• Lead and participate in projects focusing on microbial contamination control and process optimization.
• Monitor and verify sanitation standards across production areas using environmental monitoring, equipment swabs, water testing, and air quality sampling.
• Support and validate Cleaning-in-Place (CIP), sanitation procedures, and hygiene practices to prevent product spoilage or unwanted microbial growth.

Method Development & Validation

• Develop, optimize, and validate microbiological methods and procedures according to GMP, ISO, and applicable regulatory guidelines.
• Ensure methods are suitable for biostimulant matrices and can detect contamination risks unique to biological, organic, or fermentation-based products.

Product Stability & Formulation Support

• Participate in new product development by advising on microbial stability considerations (pH, water activity, preservatives, nutrient profiles).
• Conduct preservative efficacy testing (challenge testing) and support long-term and accelerated shelf-life studies.
• Assist in designing formulations and processes to minimize spoilage and ensure product efficacy throughout storage and distribution.

  Investigation, CAPA & Troubleshooting

• Lead root cause investigations for microbiological deviations, contamination incidents, or customer complaints.
• Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Collaborate closely with R&D, QC Chemistry, Production, and Engineering teams to resolve microbiological challenges and enhance process reliability.

  Laboratory Management & Leadership

• Oversee microbiology related aspects of existing routine laboratories.
• Oversee calibration, media preparation, consumables inventory, and laboratory upkeep.
• Provide technical guidance, mentoring, and training to junior team members and production staff where needed.

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor of Science (Honours) or Master’s degree in Microbiology

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in microbiological testing within the pharmaceutical, food, agriculture, bio stimulant, or related industry.
• Proven experience in microbial identification, characterization, and contamination-control strategies.
• Experience with preservative systems, method validation, challenge testing, stability studies particularly in the biostimulant area is advantageous.

Skills & Competencies

• Deep understanding of microbial processes, laboratory techniques and relevant regulatory standards.
• Strong analytical and data-interpretation skills, with the ability to present findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and experience collaborating in cross-functional teams.
• High attention to detail, quality-driven mindset, and commitment to scientific excellence.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced production and research environment.