Operations Manager Microbiology
Company: Actalent
Location: Chicago Heights
Posted on: February 20, 2026
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Job Description:
Job Description Job Description Job Title: Microbiology
Operations Manager Job Description The Microbiology Operations
Manager is a pivotal role responsible for leading and managing a
department that ensures compliance with SOPs for testing client
samples. This position requires overseeing a diverse team and
ensuring efficient and safe testing across various product
categories. Responsibilities Oversee daily operations of a team of
approximately 20–25 staff within the Micro department, ensuring
efficient testing across different product categories. Develop and
maintain systems to ensure proper methodologies are used in
conformance with client requirements, and lead PCR and classical
micro testing oversight. Administer HR programs including
recruitment, retention, compensation, training and development,
EEO, and performance appraisals. Interpret data and guide
correction of discrepancies prior to release to Client Services and
clients, ensuring data aligns with accepted methods. Ensure
corrective actions effectively eliminate errors and that
documentation and follow-up meet SOP requirements. Support company
initiatives and partner with Operations, QA, and other leaders to
implement methods, and train teams for complete understanding.
Communicate emerging client requirements to departmental personnel
and align resources accordingly. Interface with internal and
external auditors to demonstrate quality systems and accreditation
compliance with regulations. Maintain expertise in food science and
microbiology through resources and peer learning, and maintain a
strong working knowledge of LIMS. Champion corporate quality and
continuous improvement, proactively initiating actions to prevent
or minimize departures from the quality system or test procedures.
Address resource needs such as turnaround time requirements,
overtime limits, turnover, and work stoppage, ensuring appropriate
materials are available. Qualification A degree in Microbiology,
Food Science, Biology, or a related field. A minimum of 8 years of
experience in microbiology testing environments, with proven
success in high-volume operations and team leadership. Expertise in
PCR and culture-based methods, method verification and validation,
and LIMS proficiency. Experience with CAPA, SOP authoring and
updating. Knowledge of quality and regulatory standards and
customer audits. Strong problem-solving skills and accountability.
Comfortable interfacing with customers and conducting third-party
testing. Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out
of Chicago Heights, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this
position is $70000.00 - $100000.00/yr. Benefits include but not
limited to Medical, Dental, Vision. Workplace Type This is a fully
onsite position in Chicago Heights,IL. Application Deadline This
position is anticipated to close on Feb 20, 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 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.
Keywords: Actalent, Glenview , Operations Manager Microbiology, Science, Research & Development , Chicago Heights, Illinois
