Entry Level Lab Tech

About the role

Join our growing team and build a strong foundation in microbiological testing, food safety, and modern analytical technologies. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career scientist to work alongside experienced professionals in a fast-paced laboratory environment, develop technical expertise, and gain exposure to cutting-edge testing methods used throughout the food and beverage industry.

Responsibilities

• Receive, log, and process incoming food, beverage, and environmental samples following chain-of-custody procedures.
• Perform microbiological testing for pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., and E. coli O157:H7, as well as indicator organisms including APC, coliforms, and yeast/mold.
• Utilize advanced laboratory technologies, including qPCR and ELFA systems, to generate accurate and reliable analytical results.
• Prepare, dilute, and plate samples using recognized industry methods, including ISO, BAM, USDA-FSIS, and FDA protocols.
• Absorb and assist with environmental monitoring, shelf-life studies, and special research projects.
• Accurately record and review laboratory data and maintain detailed documentation.
• Maintain a clean, organized laboratory environment while following strict quality and safety standards.
• Participate in ongoing training programs designed to expand technical skills and laboratory expertise.
• Collaborate with experienced scientists and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the laboratory.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Food Science, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline.
• Strong understanding of basic microbiology and laboratory techniques.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.

Preferred

• Internship, academic laboratory, undergraduate research, or industry laboratory experience.
• Experience with microbiological techniques such as plating, serial dilutions, aseptic technique, or PCR.
• Familiarity with food microbiology or environmental testing.
• Exposure to quality systems, GLP, ISO standards, or regulated laboratory environments.

Why This Role Is Great for Recent Graduates

• Gain hands-on experience with real-world microbiological testing.
• Learn industry-standard methods used throughout food safety and quality laboratories.
• Work with advanced technologies including qPCR and pathogen detection systems.
• Receive training and mentorship from experienced laboratory professionals.
• Build transferable skills in data analysis, quality systems, and regulatory compliance.
• Develop a strong foundation for future careers in microbiology, food safety, quality assurance, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, environmental testing, and research.

Work Environment

This position is based in a dedicated microbiology testing laboratory focused on delivering analytical results for food, beverage, and environmental clients. There is no manufacturing on-site—our focus is scientific testing, data quality, and client service. The laboratory environment is collaborative, fast-paced, and highly focused on professional development. Team members receive ongoing training and are encouraged to grow their technical skills while gaining exposure to a variety of testing methods and technologies.

Schedule

• Monday–Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
• Rotating Tuesday–Saturday schedule
• Saturday shifts typically conclude in the early afternoon

Benefits

• 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)

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.