Overview

CLS is Ireland’s highest-accredited contract laboratory, providing industry-leading sampling, analysis, and fully trained analysts on contract across the food, environmental, medical device, biopharmaceutical, and pharmaceutical sectors. We are now offering graduates the opportunity to launch their careers as QC Microbiology Analysts through our structured Career Accelerator Programme.

Job Title & Summary

QC Microbiology Analyst – Graduate Opportunity
This is a full-time, permanent role from your first day of training. You will receive hands-on training in our accredited Galway laboratories before progressing to client sites to gain real-world experience in regulated environments. Through our Career Accelerator Programme, you will build strong technical foundations, accelerate your expertise, and specialise in a professional career stream.

What’s Important

• Gaining practical laboratory training and real-world experience in GMP-regulated environments

• Building a foundation of applied scientific and industry knowledge through CLS’ proprietary training programme

• Developing the technical, professional, and leadership skills needed for long-term success

• Growing into a specialised career path within CLS or client organisations

The Role

• Participate in CLS’ structured Career Accelerator Programme(three phases outlined below)

• Carry out microbiology and QC testing, including water testing, preservative efficacy testing, microbial limits, bioburden, and environmental monitoring

• Use LIMS for sample logging and data management

• Ensure compliance with GMP, GLP, and laboratory safety standards

• Maintain accurate documentation and high-quality laboratory practices

• Collaborate as part of a dynamic team while also working independently to deliver results

Career Accelerator Programme

Phase 1: Launch– Training in CLS’ proprietary applied competency training programme, delivered from our GMP and INAB (108T) accredited laboratories. GMP training on all aspects of a Laboratory Quality System including: Gowning, Laboratory Safety, completion of records/correction of errors, deviations, out of specification results, calibration, reference standards, recording of quality data as per GMP. Water Testing as per USP, EP - Surface Water, Potable Water, Water for injection. Preservative Efficacy Testing of Pharmaceutical Products. Use of LIMS system for logging of samples. Environmental Monitoring of Cleanrooms. Microbial Limit Testing of Products and Active Ingredients (Sterile and Non – Sterile – TAMC, TYMC, Absence of Specific Organisms) Bioburden Testing on Medical Devices.

• Phase 2: Accelerate– Turn knowledge into expertise through applied experience within regulated pharmaceutical and medical device environments, working on real client projects.

• Phase 3: Mastery– Specialise in a chosen career stream:

  • Technical Specialist

  • Leadership

  • Quality Assurance

  • Training

Where You Come From

• A degree in Microbiology or a related science discipline

• Strong knowledge of laboratory techniques

• Attention to detail and accuracy

• Good time management and organisational skills

• Excellent communication skills

Who You Are

• Passionate about starting a career in science within the pharmaceutical and medical device industries

• Motivated, adaptable, and eager to learn in a fast-paced environment

• A strong team player who can also work independently

• Detail-oriented with a commitment to quality and compliance

• Resilient, focused, and capable of meeting deadlines

What We Offer

• A full-time, permanent role with structured progression from day one

• Competitive salary and career development opportunities

• Hands-on training in accredited laboratories and real industry placements

• A clear career pathway through CLS’ Career Accelerator Programme

• The chance to contribute to meaningful scientific work in a supportive, collaborative environment

Diversity and inclusion are essential to our mission and achieving our vision at CLS. The diversity we foster is one of our greatest strengths in delivering excellence through collaboration, respect, quality and integrity without compromise. CLS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.