Lab Analyst

Job Title: Lab Analyst - Microbiology

Job Description

This role focuses on performing microbiological testing and analysis on food, beverage, and environmental samples in a small, specialized laboratory. The lab analyst receives and processes samples, conducts a variety of microbiological tests using standardized methods and modern technologies, and ensures accurate documentation and reporting of results. The position requires strong aseptic technique, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt to fluctuating workflows while maintaining compliance with quality and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Receive, log, and label incoming food, beverage, and environmental samples in accordance with chain-of-custody procedures.
• Verify sample integrity and storage conditions upon arrival to ensure suitability for testing.
• Perform qualitative and quantitative microbiological testing for pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., and E. coli O157:H7, as well as indicator organisms including aerobic plate count (APC), coliforms, and yeast/mold.
• Use qPCR and ELFA technologies to carry out microbiological analyses in line with established protocols.
• Assist in conducting shelf-life studies, challenge studies, and environmental monitoring analyses as assigned.
• Prepare, dilute, and plate samples using standard ISO, BAM, USDA-FSIS, and FDA methods.
• Record all required laboratory data accurately on work orders and associated documentation.
• Review and verify data for accuracy and completeness before releasing pathogen reports for clients.
• Communicate findings to staff and support responses to client inquiries when needed.
• Follow all laboratory safety protocols, including proper use of personal protective equipment and adherence to biosafety level requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and contamination-free workspace to support reliable test results.
• Comply with ISO quality management standards and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Operate general laboratory equipment and ensure proper setup and use during testing.
• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of laboratory equipment, troubleshoot basic issues, and promptly notify leadership of any significant problems.
• Assist with proficiency testing to help maintain laboratory accreditation and performance standards.
• Participate in internal training programs to maintain and enhance technical competency.
• Support special projects, including testing for new products or methods, as directed.
• Apply aseptic technique consistently and rigorously in all daily laboratory activities.
• Adapt to changing workflows and varying sample volumes based on weekly client demands.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience with basic microbiology testing on food samples.
• Proficiency in titrations within a laboratory setting.
• Strong pipetting skills with consistent accuracy and precision.
• Demonstrated aseptic technique and sterile processing practices in routine lab work.
• Practical microbiology skill set, including handling and preparation of microbiological media and samples.
• Knowledge of PCR methods and their application in microbiological testing.
• Ability to adapt to changing workflow and varying sample volumes.
• Strong data entry skills with a focus on accuracy and careful documentation.
• Experience working in a laboratory environment, preferably 2 to 4 years with a degree or 4 to 5 years without a degree, as indicated.
• Ability to follow standardized methods such as ISO, BAM, USDA-FSIS, and FDA procedures.
• Capability to operate general laboratory equipment and follow equipment operating procedures.
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of aseptic technique, which is critical to daily job performance.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Formal education in microbiology or a related scientific discipline is beneficial.
• Experience working with food, beverage, or environmental microbiology testing is an advantage.
• Familiarity with qPCR and ELFA technologies in a laboratory context.
• Exposure to ISO-based quality management systems and regulatory compliance in a lab setting.
• Experience participating in proficiency testing programs.
• Strong communication skills to collaborate with staff and support client-related discussions.
• Interest in continuous learning and using the role as a platform for professional growth and advancement.
• Ability to work effectively in a small team environment and support special projects, including new product testing.

Work Environment

The position is based in a small microbiology testing laboratory that focuses solely on analyzing samples and generating data for clients rather than manufacturing products. The environment is fast-paced at times, with workflow that can fluctuate depending on weekly client demands, requiring flexibility and adaptability. The lab uses modern microbiological testing technologies, including qPCR and ELFA systems, and follows standardized methods such as ISO, BAM, USDA-FSIS, and FDA protocols. Work is performed on a rotating schedule that includes a Monday to Friday shift from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and a Tuesday to Saturday schedule, with Saturday hours typically ending around early afternoon. The role requires consistent use of personal protective equipment and adherence to laboratory safety and biosafety practices, as well as maintaining a clean, organized, and contamination-free workspace.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Farmington, CT.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $27.00 - $35.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Farmington,CT.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 18, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.