Associate Microbiologist

Description:

Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing on botanicals, extracts, food, beverages, medical devices and other materials as deemed appropriate by management using validated methods (e.g., culture-based and rapid/qPCR methods). Ensures data integrity and on-time, audit-ready results per ISO/IEC 17025 and Minnesota OCM/CTA requirements. Supports method verification/validation, instrument qualification, and continuous process improvement.

Key Duties:

• Perform enumerations and presence/absence testing with required positive/negative controls,

blanks, duplicates, and system-suitability checks; maintain control charts where applicable.

• Execute culture methods and rapid molecular methods (PCR/qPCR) for indicator organisms and

pathogen/fungal targets (including Aspergillus spp.) per validated procedures.

• Prepare and qualify media and reagents; perform growth-promotion testing, sterility checks,

and pH/lot verification.

• Operate and maintain microbiology equipment (biosafety cabinets, incubators, autoclaves,

homogenizers, automated colony counters, qPCR systems); complete daily/weekly checks and

preventive maintenance.

• Run IQC/OC controls, system suitability, and charting; document any nonconforming work.
• Process data in LIMS/e-records; apply CFU/ml or MPN calculations and submit for technical

review.

• Compare results to specifications; request clarifications, confirmations, or re-tests as needed.
• Manage biohazard waste streams: decontaminate, autoclave, and document disposal.
• Maintain housekeeping, EHS compliance, and proper disinfectant use.
• Complete required training and keep competency current.
• Other duties as assigned.

True North, LLC offers competitive Benefits including Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance, 401K with match, a generous HSA employer contribution and PTO. This role would be required to be onsite 5 days per week from the Roseville, MN location. This is an exempt-full time role. Salary competitive within the Twin Cities Market.

Come join our Collaborative Team!

Requirements:

Education / Certification:

• BS in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or a related field (MS preferred for senior levels);

in lieu of a degree, an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will be

considered.

• 3+ years of hands-on microbiology experience in a regulated lab setting (food,

environmental, pharma/biotech, or related).

• Familiarity with ISO/IEC 17025, data integrity (ALCOA+), and LIMS/e-records.

Technical Experience/Knowledge:

• Aseptic technique; culture methods (enrichment, selective/differential media,

confirmations).

• Enumeration (CFU/plate counts), rapid methods/qPCR, EM sampling and trending.
• Equipment qualification basics (incubator/autoclave verification, thermometer calibration

checks).

• Understanding of microbiology performance characteristics (POD, inclusivity/exclusivity, LoD

concept, precision).

• Proficient with Excel and basic statistics; able to interpret control charts and EM trends.
• High attention to detail, documentation rigor, and time management.
• Clear written/verbal communication; collaborative with QA, PMs, and Study Directors.

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions:

• Work in a microbiology laboratory with required PPE; stand/walk for extended periods;

occasional lifting up to 25 lbs.

• Handle biological materials and disinfectants per SOP/SDS; follow BSL-appropriate practices.
• Standard work hours with occasional flexibility to meet TAT or incubation windows.