Quality Lab Associate I

QC Lab Associate I Location: On-site, Round Lake, ILDuration: 12-Month ContractPay Rate: $27.00/hr W2Schedule RequirementsThis position supports weekend operations and requires availability on Saturday and Sunday. Candidates must also work onsite on either Thursday or Friday to ensure a seamless transition of activities and responsibilities into the weekend. Potential schedule options include:Wednesday - SundayThursday - MondayFriday - TuesdayTypical first-shift hours are flexible, including:7:30 AM - 4:30 PM8:00 AM - 5:00 PMOccasional holiday work and schedule adjustments may be required based on business needs.Important RequirementsMust NOT be allergic to Penicillin, Cephalosporin, or related products/materials.Onsite position only. Remote work is not available.Shower-out procedures are required when leaving the facility.Ability to lift up to 50 lbs when necessary.Position SummaryWe are seeking a QC Microbiology Analyst to support microbiological testing and environmental monitoring activities within a pharmaceutical manufacturing environment. This role supports Quality Control Microbiology Laboratory operations and performs biological testing throughout all stages of manufacturing, including raw materials, in-process samples, finished products, environmental monitoring, and critical utility systems monitoring.This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with microbiology, biology, aseptic processing, or pharmaceutical laboratory experience who are looking to grow within a highly regulated GMP environment.Key ResponsibilitiesPerform microbial analysis of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.Conduct environmental monitoring activities including: Surface sampling, Air monitoring, Personnel monitoring, and Non-viable particulate monitoring.Perform critical systems monitoring, including: Water systems, Clean steam, Compressed air, and Nitrogen systems.Prepare microbiological media and laboratory reagents.Utilize laboratory instrumentation such as: Particle Counters, pH Meters, Surface Air Systems (SAS), and Autoclaves.Use Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) to collect, review, and document data.Support laboratory investigations, nonconformance investigations, root cause analyses, and CAPA activities.Maintain laboratory inventory, supplies, and equipment.Ensure data integrity and compliance with SOPs, FDA, QSR, GLP, and cGMP requirements.Maintain laboratory housekeeping and safety standards.Support additional laboratory projects and initiatives as assigned.Work in both Drug Delivery and Penicillin manufacturing facilities as needed.Qualifications & Preferred ExperienceBachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Biological Sciences, or a related scientific discipline; concentration in Microbiology or Biology preferred.Minimum 1-2 years of laboratory experience with aseptic technique and microbiological testing.Experience performing environmental monitoring and microbial analysis in cleanroom, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, academic, or other regulated laboratory environments.Proficiency using laboratory instrumentation, including particle counters, pH meters, SAS systems, and autoclaves.Experience with LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) or similar laboratory data management systems.Working knowledge of GLP, cGMP, and aseptic processing requirements preferred.Familiarity with root cause investigation methodologies and problem-solving tools such as DMAIC is a plus.Strong technical writing, documentation, organization, and attention-to-detail skills.Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and collaborate effectively within a team environment.