PLS Associate Scientist I - Microbiology

Location: Oakdale, Minnesota, United States; full-time onsite. Training is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM for the first 90 days; the regular schedule is Tuesday through Saturday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Salary: $22.00–$24.00 per hour.

Company

Pace Life Sciences provides contract CMC development, manufacturing, regulatory compliance, consulting, facility support, and analytical testing services for pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, and gene therapy organizations.

What you will do

• Perform standard microbiology testing of materials, products, and devices using established methods and analytical instrumentation.
• Review, interpret, document, and present microbiology testing results, trends, findings, and recommendations.
• Complete and process microbiology forms, databases, reports, and related documentation.
• Audit testing processes, equipment, procedures, and operational data; resolve or escalate discrepancies to support quality assurance.
• Clean, maintain, prepare, and calibrate laboratory equipment, samples, and work areas.
• Support microbiology and cross-functional projects, including timelines, materials, personnel, and management reporting.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Fundamental knowledge of microbiology principles, practices, techniques, testing tools, instrumentation, calibration, and applicable regulations.
• Ability to perform professional-level microbiology duties, administer standard microbiology functions, and train others on related policies and procedures.
• Ability to interpret and apply laws, codes, regulations, standard operating procedures, and department guidelines.
• Ability to prepare reports and correspondence, present information, and work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Correct business English is required.

Culture & Benefits

• Work in a laboratory and office environment with exposure to chemicals, fumes, gases, noxious odors, and samples.
• Physical requirements include mobility in laboratory and office settings, use of standard equipment, extended sitting, and occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds.
• Full-time benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; a 401(k) plan with immediate vesting in the employer match; life and disability insurance; and paid holiday, sick, and vacation leave.
• Additional benefits include HSA, flexible spending accounts, wellness programs, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance, parental leave, legal coverage, and identity theft protection.