Sr. Associate II, Quality Control Lab - Microbiology

At Alcon, we are driven by the meaningful work we do to help people see brilliantly. We innovate boldly, champion progress, and act with speed as the global leader in eye care. Here, you’ll be recognized for your commitment and contributions and see your career like never before. Together, we go above and beyond to make an impact in the lives of our patients and customers. We foster an inclusive culture and are looking for diverse, talented people to join Alcon.

As the Senior Associate (Senior Microbiologist) under QC Labs, you will be responsible for primarily responsible for leading advanced projects in the Quality Control Lab, focusing on environmental monitoring, testing, and maintaining aseptic practices. You will support product validation and compliance, requiring advanced technical skills and problem-solving abilities.

In this role, a typical day will include:

• Serve as the microbiology subject matter expert for aseptic manufacturing, contamination control, and microbiological quality assurance.
• Manage environmental monitoring and microbiological testing programs to ensure ongoing control of cleanroom environments and manufacturing processes.
• Support validation, qualification, and routine microbiological assessments to ensure product quality and regulatory compliance.
• Drive technical decision-making related to microbiological investigations, risk assessments, and process improvements.
• Collaborate closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, and Validation teams to support site objectives and operational excellence.
• Lead investigation of microbiological excursions, identify root causes, and implement effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
• Ensure compliance with cGMP, GxP, regulatory expectations, and site procedures while maintaining accurate and complete documentation.
• Foster a culture of quality, continuous improvement, and inspection readiness across the microbiology function and aseptic operations
• Ensure microbiology laboratory compliance with data integrity and GMP requirements.
• Review and approve microbiological test results in accordance with GMP requirements.
• Review and approve laboratory procedures, protocols, and reports.
• Support the site's Contamination Control Strategy (CCS).
• Perform risk assessments related to microbiological control of manufacturing processes.
• Drive contamination investigations and identify root causes and corrective actions.
• Partner with Manufacturing, Engineering, Validation, and Quality teams to improve contamination prevention practices
• Provide microbiological expertise and training to site personnel.
• Mentor junior microbiologists and laboratory staff.
• Support qualification of analysts and aseptic operators.
• Ensure compliance with FDA, EU GMP Annex 1, PIC/S, and other applicable regulatory requirements.
• Required to support routine and urgent QC Microbiology laboratory activities through a rotating two-shift work arrangement in response to operational and business needs.

What You'll Bring to Alcon

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Microbiology, Biological Sciences or Biotechnology
• Minimum 5-8 years of microbiology experience within a GMP-regulated pharmaceutical, biologics, medical device, or sterile manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of aseptic processing and contamination control principles.
• Experience with Environmental Monitoring and cleanroom microbiology.
• Proven experience conducting microbiological investigations and root cause analysis.
• Knowledge of FDA, EU GMP Annex 1, PIC/S, and Data Integrity requirements.
• Extensive experience in microbiological control of Grade A and critical Grade B aseptic processing areas, with a strong understanding of cleanroom behavior, environmental monitoring, and contamination risk management.

HOW YOU CAN THRIVE AT ALCON:

• At Alcon, we are committed to fostering a work environment where our employees can grow, innovate, and excel. Here’s how you can thrive in your role with us:
• Career Growth & Development - Gain access to continuous learning opportunities, leadership training, and career advancement programs to support your professional journey.
• Collaborative Culture - Work alongside passionate and diverse teams in a dynamic and inclusive environment that encourages innovation and teamwork.
• Impactful Work - Be part of a purpose-driven company that is improving lives by advancing eye care solutions worldwide.
• Recognition & Rewards - Your contributions are valued and recognized through competitive compensation, performance incentives and career progression opportunities.
• Global Exposure - Join a world-class organization with opportunities to collaborate across international teams and gain global industry insights.
• Work-Life Balance & Well-Being - Enjoy employee wellness programs, flexible work arrangements and initiatives that support your well-being.

At Alcon, we empower our people to make a difference while growing their careers in an exciting and supportive environment. Join us and see brilliance in every opportunity!

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