Clinical Microbiology Technician

Clinical Microbiology Specialist



Job Description

Apply advanced knowledge of clinical lab testing to perform independent work and train others. Adapt and modify lab methods to solve complex problems and validate new tests. Handle sample processing, including integrity checks, data verification, and bacterial culturing.

Responsibilities

• Perform independent work and train others in the laboratory setting.
• Adapt and modify laboratory methods to solve complex problems and validate new tests.
• Handle sample processing, including integrity checks, data verification, and bacterial culturing.
• Send samples to CDC and regional labs for specialized testing.
• Conduct small animal necropsies and prepare brain samples for rabies testing.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot a wide range of laboratory instruments, such as MALDI-ToF and Illumina MiSeq.
• Perform whole genome sequencing and analyze data using bioinformatics tools like Bionumerics and BugSeq.
• Document patient and testing information in accordance with CLIA regulations, and write SOPs and validation studies.
• Promote and troubleshoot quality control, initiate corrective actions, and support QA/QI efforts.
• Monitor reagent inventory and expiration, and recommend equipment upgrades as needed.
• Oversee testing operations for microbiology, bioterrorism response, and quality assurance programs.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, clinical lab science, or a related field—or equivalent education and experience.
• Minimum of 4 years’ experience performing high-complexity clinical testing using traditional and molecular methods.
• Experience in bacteriology and microbiology within a clinical laboratory setting.
• Prior experience in both public health and clinical testing laboratories.
• Certification as MLS or MLT by ASCP or AMT is highly desirable.
• Experience with QA procedures, lab safety protocols, and Windows-based systems.
• Familiarity with high-volume, fast-paced clinical lab environments.
• Proven ability to report results and maintain quality standards in diagnostic testing.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Iowa City, IA.

The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $26.00/hr.

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)

This is a fully onsite position in Iowa City,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Dec 26, 2025.

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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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 due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.