Entry-Level Microbiology Lab Technician

We are hiring for an entry level Microbiology Lab Technician here in Columbus, Ohio! These are long-term career opportunities that will include performing microbiology lab testing on food products. Ideal candidates for this role will have a Bachelors Degree in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or other scientific degrees. This lab technician role focuses on preparing and processing microbiological samples in a food/quality testing laboratory as part of a dedicated plating team. You will perform hands-on microbiology techniques, ensure accurate and reliable test results, and maintain high standards of documentation, aseptic technique, and laboratory safety. This position offers a strong foundation for long-term growth in laboratory science, with clear paths into advanced technical, quality, regulatory, and leadership roles. Responsibilities

- Prepare microbiological samples by accurately weighing, blending, and processing materials according to established protocols.
- Perform plating and culturing of samples using appropriate microbiological methods and techniques.
- Pour agar and prepare media and broth to support various microbiological tests and analyses.
- Conduct colony counting and read plates to identify and quantify microbial growth.
- Incubate samples under specified conditions and monitor tests throughout the incubation period.
- Document test results accurately and completely in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
- Apply aseptic technique consistently to prevent contamination and ensure reliable test outcomes.
- Follow all laboratory safety procedures and guidelines to maintain a safe working environment.
- Keep the laboratory clean, organized, and well-stocked, including workbenches, equipment, and shared spaces.
- Collaborate with team members to meet testing deadlines and maintain smooth laboratory operations.
- Communicate clearly with colleagues and leadership regarding test status, issues, and observations.
- Support continuous improvement efforts by following standard operating procedures and suggesting process enhancements when appropriate.

Qualifications

- Bachelors Degree in a relevant scientific field
Job Type & Location
This is a Permanent position based out of Columbus, OH.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/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)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Columbus,OH.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Oct 8, 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 [email protected] 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.