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Quality Control Microbiologist Jobs in Elgin, IL

... Microbiology, Supply Chain Management, or a related field; advanced degree strongly preferred - or equivalent experience and tenure required. * Quality experience: 10+ years of quality (QA/QC) ...

FSQA Technician (1st Shift)

Mundelein, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... food quality and safety control points with timely execution and precise document keeping ... Knowledge of GMPs, SPC, HACCP, OSHA, USDA regulations, and Food Microbiology * Experience with Food ...

QA SUPERVISOR

Bloomingdale, IL ยท On-site

$81K - $107K/hr

Bachelor's Degree (BS or BA) in a science (i.e., Microbiology, Chemistry, Biology) and a minimum of five (5) years' experience in Quality Assurance or Quality Control (preferably in the dietary ...

Bachelor's Degree (BS or BA) in a science (i.e., Microbiology, Chemistry, Biology) and a minimum of five (5) years' experience in Quality Assurance or Quality Control (preferably in the dietary ...

Micro Tech

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

We are currently looking for a Microbiology Technician to join our growing team! JOB SUMMARY ... Perform quality control monitoring by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms ...

Showing results 41-60

Quality Control Microbiologist information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$12

$29

$50

How much do quality control microbiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality control microbiologist in Elgin, IL is $29.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.23 and $31.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a quality control microbiologist?

Quality Control Microbiologists are professionals who monitor and test products, materials, or environments in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics to ensure they are free from harmful microorganisms. They perform laboratory tests, analyze samples, and document results to verify compliance with safety and quality standards. Their work is critical in preventing contamination and ensuring products are safe for consumers. They also play a key role in troubleshooting issues and recommending corrective actions to improve manufacturing processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a quality control microbiologist?

To thrive as a Quality Control Microbiologist, you need a solid background in microbiology, laboratory techniques, and a relevant science degree such as microbiology, biology, or biochemistry. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), aseptic techniques, and industry regulations like GMP and ISO standards is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are vital to ensure accurate testing, compliance with safety standards, and effective collaboration in maintaining product quality.

What are some common challenges faced by quality control microbiologists, and how can they be addressed?

Quality Control Microbiologists often encounter challenges such as meeting tight testing deadlines while ensuring accuracy, handling unexpected contamination events, and staying up-to-date with rapidly changing regulatory standards. These challenges can be managed by developing strong organizational skills, participating in ongoing training, and maintaining open communication with production and quality assurance teams. Additionally, implementing robust standard operating procedures and regular equipment calibrations helps minimize errors and ensures reliable results.

What is the difference between Quality Control Microbiologist vs Quality Assurance Specialist?

AspectQuality Control MicrobiologistQuality Assurance Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in microbiology, biology, or related field; certifications like ASQ are a plusSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in related fields and certifications in quality management
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings focused on testing and analyzing samples for microbial contaminationOffice and production environments overseeing quality systems and compliance
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in pharmaceutical, biotech, and food industries for microbial testingUsed across manufacturing sectors to develop and maintain quality standards

While both roles focus on quality, the Quality Control Microbiologist primarily conducts microbial testing in labs, whereas the Quality Assurance Specialist oversees overall quality systems and compliance. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Quality Control Microbiologist jobs in Elgin, IL?

For Quality Control Microbiologist jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Quality Control Microbiologist jobs in Elgin, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Quality Control Microbiologist jobs in Elgin, IL are:

What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Quality Control Microbiologist jobs?

Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Quality Control Microbiologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Quality Control Microbiologist job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,016 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Quality Control Technician (2nd shift)

Greenwood Associates, Inc.

Niles, IL โ€ข On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description:

Greenwood Associates Inc. is a family owned and operated distributor of natural fruit and vegetable juice concentrates, purees, and essential oils, proudly serving the food and beverage industry since 1974. With over 50 years of experience, Greenwood provides high-quality products, custom blending, packaging, and logistics solutions to customers across North America. Rooted in strong relationships and a people first culture, Greenwood values teamwork, accountability, and long-term growth. As a stable, multi generation business, we empower employees to make an impact, build lasting partnerships, and grow their careers in an environment that values integrity and collaboration.


Reporting to the Quality Lab Manager, the second shift Quality Control Technician (QA Tech) performs manual and automated standardized qualitative and quantitative checks, tests, and inspections to determine the physical, chemical, or biological properties of food and beverage products. This role is critical to support our organization’s Food Safety Management System (“FSMS”) in providing high quality, safe products that meet customer requirements and approved material specifications.


This is a full-time, at- will, non-exempt hourly position. Schedule flexibility is required, start time may range from 10:00AM start to 3:00PM start. 


Key Responsibilities:

  • Collect, prepare, analyze, interpret, and report test results of chemical, physical, and microbiological samples
  • Conduct inspection checks on goods and production processes
  • Ensure employees and processes compliance to FDA and CPFG food safety and quality rules and regulations
  • Report food safety/quality findings and issues
  • Performing maintenance of laboratory equipment according to operation and calibration requirements
  • Maintain compliance documentation as required
  • Record data in logbooks, computer spreadsheets, and ERP system
  • Perform general laboratory housekeeping as outlined in MSS
  • Inventory, monitor, and restock lab supplies
  • Follow safety protocols and use personal protective equipment as required
Requirements:

Qualifications and Core Competencies:

  • High School Diploma or GED, college classes/degree or equivalent job experience
  • Ability to follow written and verbal work instructions, communicate effectively, and work in a fast-paced team environment with minimal direct supervision
  • Able to independently investigate and analyze observations, and draw conclusions
  • Able to understand, interpret, and apply food safety principles, certification program structure and requirements, and governmental regulations as required
  • Strong computer skills, knowledge of Microsoft Office software, and ability to quickly learn new business systems (ERP or other business software) and programs


Physical Requirements:

  • Repetitive movement using keyboard
  • Able to remain standing or sitting for extended periods of time
  • Able to navigate ladders and stairs, and occasionally lift <75lbs. weights unassisted
  • Able to work in a food manufacturing environment including low temperature cold storage warehousing, hot and wet/humid production rooms
  • Able to become exposed to dirt, dust, fumes, heights, and/or loud noises occasionally
  • Sufficient visual acuity to observe appearance of products and cleanliness of production area and equipment
  • Sufficient olfactory and gustatory acuity to perform frequent organoleptic product evaluations
  • Sufficient physical dexterity to perform the technical and clerical functions required of the role effectively and efficiently

Work hours may vary based on production activities and overtime may be required. 



Benefits Offered

Medical

Dental

Vision

401k Retirement Plan

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Accident/Critical Illness Insurance

Generous PTO Accrual

Paid Holidays