Job Title

We’re Hiring: Microbiology ManagerFood & Pharmaceutical Testing DivisionEFRAC - Barasat, KolkataEFRAC is seeking an experienced and technically strong Microbiology Manager to lead end-to-end microbiology operations for our Food and Pharmaceutical Testing Divisions, with a strong preference for candidates from Food Microbiology Testing laboratories.Key Responsibilities1. Technical Leadership- Lead and oversee all microbiological testing activities for food, pharmaceutical, water, environmental, and surface samples. - Ensure appropriate method selection, validation, verification, and strict adherence to SOPs. - Troubleshoot complex technical issues related to media preparation, contamination, equipment performance, and test execution. - Review and approve analytical results and reports, ensuring technical accuracy and data integrity. - Maintain expertise in classical and advanced microbiological methods, including rapid and PCR-based techniques and automated pathogen detection systems.2. Operations & Quality Management- Ensure full compliance with ISO/IEC 17025, FSSAI, USFDA, and other applicable regulatory requirements. - Work closely with the QA team during internal audits, external audits, CAPAs, and method reviews. - Monitor turnaround time (TAT), capacity planning, and optimal resource utilization. - Oversee media preparation, sterilization processes, culture management, consumables planning, and instrument calibration. - Enforce strict biosafety, hygiene, and contamination-control practices.3. Team Leadership & Development- Lead, mentor, and manage a team of microbiologists, analysts, and technicians. - Allocate daily workloads and ensure timely and accurate test completion. - Conduct training programs, competency assessments, and continuous skill development initiatives. - Foster a culture of ownership, discipline, quality, and continuous improvement. - Guide junior staff on method interpretation, troubleshooting, and documentation best practices.4. Documentation & Reporting- Ensure all worksheets, logbooks, instrument records, and LIMS entries are accurate and compliant. - Review and approve COAs, microbiology reports, and OOS/OOT investigations. - Prepare and present monthly performance metrics and laboratory reports to senior management.5. Stakeholder & Client Coordination- Collaborate with Operations, QA, Client Services, Sales, and Sample Management teams. - Participate in client audits, technical discussions, and customer interactions to address microbiology-related queries.Qualifications & Experience- M.Sc / M.Tech in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related discipline (PhD preferred). - Minimum 10 years of hands-on experience in Food Microbiology Testing (mandatory). - Overall 10–15 years of experience, with strong exposure to food testing laboratories operating under ISO/IEC 17025. - In-depth knowledge of foodborne pathogens, indicator organisms, environmental monitoring, method validation, and regulatory compliance (FSSAI, USFDA, etc.). - Proven experience in leading and managing a microbiology laboratory team. - Excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.How to Apply:Apply via LinkedIn Easy Apply or email your CV to Sangita.sheet@/ talentacquisition@ or Contact at @6292279952 with the subject "Microbiology Manager– Food Microbiology".