Entry Level Microbiologist Jobs in Milwaukee, WI

Job Title: QC Laboratory Technician – Microbiology

Job Description

This entry-level QC Laboratory Technician role focuses on microbiological quality control testing for fermentation products used in animal probiotics and animal feed. The technician performs routine lab testing, supports key quality programs, and completes all associated documentation in accordance with established standards and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological testing on bacterial samples, including pathogen testing and enumeration of products.
• Conduct quality control testing on fermentation products used in animal probiotics and animal feed.
• Maintain the Retainer Testing Program by performing scheduled tests and documenting results accurately.
• Support and maintain the Microbial Control Program to ensure products and processes meet microbiological standards.
• Swab and test for allergens on relevant surfaces and materials, documenting findings and following up as required.
• Swab and test for environmental contaminants in the laboratory and production-related areas.
• Sample raw materials as necessary to verify quality and compliance with microbiological specifications.
• Input test data and results into Excel spreadsheets and other QC documentation systems with a high level of accuracy.
• Perform general cleaning of the laboratory area to maintain a safe, organized, and compliant workspace.
• Clean used glassware and ensure it is properly prepared for reuse in microbiological testing.
• Carry out all tasks in compliance with GMP, FAMIqs, and FSMA requirements and internal quality procedures.
• Follow aseptic techniques and biological lab procedures to prevent contamination and ensure reliable test results.
• Participate in training on specific microbiological tests, QC procedures, and documentation requirements.
• Collaborate with the lab team to support daily testing schedules and meet quality control timelines.

Essential Skills

• Foundational understanding of microbiology, including bacteria and basic microbial principles.
• Base knowledge of biological laboratory techniques and aseptic technique.
• Ability to perform microbiological testing, including pathogen testing and enumeration of bacterial samples.
• Comfort working with fermentation products and bacterial cultures in a laboratory setting.
• Attention to detail and accuracy when completing QC documentation and entering data into Excel spreadsheets.
• Capability to follow GMP, FAMIqs, and FSMA requirements and standard operating procedures.
• Ability to perform routine lab cleaning tasks, including cleaning glassware and maintaining a tidy lab area.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tests and quality programs concurrently.
• Willingness and ability to learn and be trained on specific tests, procedures, and paperwork.
• Academic experience in microbiology, biology, or related biological lab work (experience from academics is acceptable).

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Background in Microbiology, Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
• Experience with aseptic technique in an academic or laboratory environment.
• Exposure to quality control processes in a laboratory or production setting.
• Familiarity with working in a microbiology lab performing bacterial testing.
• Basic proficiency with Excel for data entry and record keeping.
• Interest in animal probiotics, fermentation products, and their application in animal feed.
• Strong commitment to following safety and quality guidelines.
• Great opportunity for individuals seeking an entry-level laboratory role.

Work Environment

The role is based in a dedicated microbiology laboratory environment, working closely with a small team of four laboratory colleagues. The position operates on a first shift schedule, typically from 7:00 a.m. to approximately 3:30–4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The lab setting involves routine handling of bacterial samples, fermentation products, and raw materials, as well as regular use of standard microbiology equipment and glassware. The environment emphasizes cleanliness, organization, and adherence to quality and safety standards, with ongoing collaboration and training within the team. This is a structured, entry-level role offering a supportive environment for learning and professional growth.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Milwaukee, WI.

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $23.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Milwaukee,WI.

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 4, 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.