Who You AreYou're an experienced microbiology leader with a strong background in personal care/cosmetic microbiology and manufacturing. You understand the microbiological requirements of cosmetic and OTC products and can translate technical requirements into practical, compliant processes. You're a collaborative leader who can serve as the microbiology SME while developing people, strengthening laboratory capabilities, and partnering across Quality, R&D, and Operations. Personal care microbiology experience is required.
What You'll Do- Lead and develop the Microbiology Laboratory, including testing programs, processes, and continuous improvement.
- Serve as the microbiology SME for product, environmental, and manufacturing microbiological controls.
- Oversee microbiology QA/QC programs, testing methods, documentation, and investigations.
- Hire, train, mentor, and develop Microbiology Laboratory team members.
- Develop internal testing capabilities and support microbiology R&D initiatives.
- Partner with Quality, R&D, and Operations to identify risks and improve manufacturing processes.
- Ensure compliance with GMP, GLP, GDP, FDA cosmetic/OTC requirements, and USP standards.
- Manage third-party testing laboratories and support laboratory equipment qualification, calibration, and implementation.
- Lead laboratory training and internal audit programs.
What You Bring- Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, or a related field.
- 5+ years of progressive microbiology experience in personal care/cosmetics and a manufacturing environment.
- Strong knowledge of microbiological testing for cosmetic and OTC products.
- Working knowledge of FDA regulations, USP standards, GMP, GLP, and GDP.
- Experience leading or developing a microbiology laboratory or team.
- Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Physical Demands - Vision Requirements: This position requires the ability to perform tasks involving close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
- Color Differentiation: The role requires the ability to visually compare colors against established reference standards, including standard color solutions or approved reference materials. The position also requires the ability to accurately identify color-coded labels, status tags, and chemical hazard warnings within the work environment.
- Sensory Evaluation (Odor Detection): The position may require the ability to detect and differentiate odors during the evaluation of raw materials and finished products in accordance with applicable USP monographs and/or internal testing specifications. This includes identifying unexpected or out-of-specification (OOS) odors that may indicate contamination, degradation, or spoilage.
- Material/Product Appearance Evaluation: The position requires the ability to visually evaluate the appearance of raw materials and finished products as required by applicable USP monographs and internal testing specifications, including identifying irregularities or deviations from established standards.
