Microbiologist III

Empower is a visionary healthcare company committed to providing quality, affordable medication to millions of patients across the nation. We hold the distinguished position of being the largest 503A compounding pharmacy and FDA-registered 503B outsourcing facility in the country serving the functional medicine markets.  

What sets us apart is our relentless focus on three core values: People, Quality and Service. Our dedicated team of professionals collaboratively works to break new ground in the fields of manufacturing, distribution and quality control, providing a uniquely integrated approach to healthcare. Leveraging our vertical integration of the pharmaceutical supply chain, state-of-the-art technology, and a commitment to excellence, we are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in medication accessibility and affordability.  

You're not just starting a job; you're joining a mission. We believe in empowering our team to innovate, grow, and drive real change in the healthcare industry. If you're a forward-thinker who thrives in a fast-paced, transformative environment, Empower is the place for you. Here, you’ll be encouraged to share your ideas, expand your skill set, and contribute to projects that genuinely make a difference. We prioritize the well-being of our team members, and we offer a supportive and engaging workplace where your contributions are not just recognized but celebrated.

Let’s revolutionize healthcare, together. Join us and be a part of something extraordinary.  

As a Microbiologist III at Empower, you will play a critical role in the success of our operations. This position is integral to our commitment to excellence, as it involves developing and validating microbiological test methods, maintaining detailed records, and preparing reports, protocols, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Your expertise will directly contribute to our mission of producing innovative medications that help people live healthier, happier lives.

Collaboration is key in this role. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to meet project objectives and timelines and identify opportunities for process improvements. Your proactive approach and innovative mindset will help us enhance efficiency and effectiveness within our microbiology laboratory and reinforce our dedication to quality and compliance.

Additionally, in this influential role you will be a mentor, providing training and guidance to junior microbiology staff, fostering an environment of continuous learning and professional growth.

Joining Empower as a Microbiologist III means being part of a visionary team dedicated to expanding access to quality, affordable medication. If you are passionate about quality, service, and innovation, and are eager to make a difference in people's lives, we invite you to bring your expertise and enthusiasm to our dynamic team.

• Conducts microbiological testing of raw materials, finished products, and environmental samples using various techniques, including microbial enumeration, identification, and antimicrobial effectiveness testing.
• Develops and validates microbiological test methods in accordance with compendial and regulatory requirements.
• Maintains accurate and detailed records of all microbiological testing and analysis performed. Prepares and reviews reports, protocols, and SOPs related to microbiological activities.
• Ensures compliance with regulatory standards, current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) requirements, and company policies and procedures. Participate in internal and external audits as needed.
• Leads microbiology-related projects, including method transfers, validations, and investigations.
• Collaborates with cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives and timelines.
• Provides training and mentorship to junior microbiology staff.
• Shares knowledge and expertise to promote continuous learning and development within the microbiology team.
• Identifies opportunities for process improvements and optimization within the microbiology laboratory.
• Implements best practices and innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Performs a variety of Microbiology testing to assess the strength, identity, and purity of test samples and/or materials.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the responsibilities of the job, the employee is required to talk and hear. Must be able to bend at the waist and knees as well as twist at the trunk. Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. Must be able to wear laboratory protective gowning and equipment, including but not limited to gowning, goggles, face shields, respirators, and protective gloves. Personal protective equipment and Respirators are essential for the health and safety of employees. Position requires working in the laboratory as well as sitting Microbiological method development and method validation procedures like BET, Sterility, MLT, BIO Assay and Disinfectant qualification and microbiological hold time validation, Container closure integrity validation.

• Strong knowledge of microbiological testing techniques, methods, and equipment.

Key Competencies

• Customer Focus: Ability to build strong customer relationships and deliver customer centric solutions.
• Optimizes Work Processes: Know the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Collaborates: Builds partnerships and works collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.
• Resourcefulness: Secures and deploys resources effectively and efficiently.
• Manages Complexity: Makes sense of complex, high quality, and sometimes contradictory information to effectively solve problems.
• Ensures Accountability: Holds self and other accountable to meet commitment.
• Situational Adaptability: Adapts approach and demeanor in real time to match shifting demands of different situations.
• Communicates Effectively: Develops and delivers multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.

• Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, Biology, or related field required; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a microbiology laboratory required.
• Previous experience in a pharmaceutical or compounding environment preferred.
• Experience with compendial testing: United States Pharmacopeia, European Pharmacopoeia, and Japanese Pharmacopoeia, and regulatory requirements (Food and Drug Administration and cGMP) preferred.
• Experience with microbiological method development and method validation procedures like bacterial endotoxins (BET), Sterility, Microbial Limit Testing (MLT), Biological (BIO) Assay and disinfectant qualification and microbiological hold time validation, container closure integrity validation.

• No-Cost Medication: Get your prescribed compounded medications at no cost, ensuring your health without the financial burden.
• Onsite Health & Wellness – IV Therapy Drips: Rejuvenate with complimentary onsite IV Therapy drips, enhancing your well-being and energy levels.
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Options: Choose from three medical plans tailored to your needs, plus options for dental and vision coverage for you and your family.
• Telehealth visits: Access board-certified Doctors anytime, anywhere for you and your family.
• Paid & Volunteer Time Off: Enjoy paid time off for personal pursuits and contribute to causes you care about with volunteer time off.
• Paid Holidays (8 scheduled; 2 floating): Celebrate with eight scheduled holidays and two floating holidays, giving you flexibility and time for personal traditions.
• Life & AD&D Coverage: Secure your and your family's financial future with life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance.
• FSA (Flexible Spending Account): Manage healthcare expenses smartly with pre-tax dollars in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• 401K Dollar-for-Dollar Up to 4%: Invest in your future with our 401K plan, featuring a dollar-for-dollar match up to 4%.
• Company Paid Long-Term Disability: Provided at no cost, which replaces 60% of your income if you become disabled for a long period of time.
• Flexible Schedules: Balance work and life seamlessly with our flexible scheduling options.
• Rewards & Recognition Program: Your hard work doesn't go unnoticed – enjoy rewards and recognition beyond your paycheck.

Additional Voluntary Benefits

• Accident Insurance: Pays a lump sum benefit to help cover expenses following an accidental injury.
• Hospital Indemnity Insurance: Enhance your peace of mind with supplemental hospital insurance for unexpected stays.
• Critical Illness: Protect your finances from the expenses of a serious health issue.
• Short-Term Disability: Protect your income during illness or injury with short-term disability coverage.
• Supplemental Life & AD&D: Add an extra layer of financial protection for you and your loved ones with supplemental life and AD&D coverage.
• Legal Services: Access professional legal assistance to address concerns confidently.
• Identity Theft Protection: Safeguard your identity and finances with our identity theft protection benefit.
• Pet Insurance: Care for your furry family members with our pet insurance coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential counseling and support services for a holistic approach to your well-being.