Senior Microbiologist - Virginia

Role: Microbiology Laboratory Specialist responsible for ensuring pharmaceutical product sterility and quality through microbiological testing of raw materials, environment, and finished products within a GMP-compliant facility. Responsibilities include performing assays, environmental monitoring, method validation, documentation, microorganism identification, troubleshooting, and supporting investigations and process improvements. Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in microbiology or related field plus at least 6 years of laboratory experience, or equivalent with an Associate’s degree and 8+ years, or a high school diploma with 10+ years relevant experience. Skilled in microbiology techniques, GMP regulations, and data documentation; proficiency in culture methods, microbial identification, and molecular biology required. Preferred skills include strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork abilities. High-value specifics: focus on microbiological quality control in pharmaceutical manufacturing, with emphasis on water, raw materials, and environmental testing; experience supporting sterile drug production; working in a GMP environment; and ability to lead investigations and process improvements. Collaboration with multiple departments and reporting to management are implied, with physical requirements including equipment handling and PPE use. Location: implied to be on-site, with potential for GMP area access and physical demands.