Microbiology Laboratory Technician

Job Description

Abbott in Ireland

Abbott has maintained a strong presence in Ireland since 1946 and celebrates its 80th anniversary in the country in 2026. The company supports the Irish healthcare sector with a broad portfolio spanning diagnostics, diabetes care, medical devices and nutritional products. Today, Abbott employs more than 6,200 people across ten sites located in Dublin, Donegal, Clonmel, Cootehill, Galway, Kilkenny, Longford and Sligo.

About Abbott

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 122,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.

Abbott Ireland Nutrition Division Cootehill Cavan

Abbott Nutrition produces a range of infant formulae in all pack sizes under the brand name “Similac”. To complement the range of “Similac” infant formulae, the facility also manufactures a range of follow-on formulae under the brand name of “Gain”. The essential ingredient is liquid skim-milk and this is combined with carbohydrate, vegetable oils, vitamins and minerals. The product is blended, pasteurised, dried and packaged at the site and once packaged, is distributed to Europe, South East Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and Canada.

Established in 1975, Abbott Nutrition in Ireland is the largest powder manufacturing facility for the production of infant formulae within the Abbott Corporation worldwide. Approximately 1,000 dairy farms in Ireland and Northern Ireland supply quality milk to the Cootehill facility which processes 500,000 litres per day. This secure supply together with Ireland’s reputation as a green, clean environment is of significant strategic importance to Abbott Nutrition.

Please note any offer of employment for this position is conditional upon the successful completion of a pre-employment medical examination, including drug and alcohol screening, conducted by a medical practitioner designated by the Company.

Primary Function / Goals / Objectives

This function has the responsibility for reviewing all relevant SOP’s/test methods, for any job task they may carry out and ensure they fully understand and adhere to the SOP/test method.

The Micro Technician must comply with global and regulatory requirements and execute current good manufacturing practices (cGMP) and current good laboratory practices (cGLP) in the performance of day-to-day activities and all applicable job functions.

GLP must be maintained at all times, including during the practices of environmental sampling, waste control and chemical disposal. Aseptic techniques must be practiced at all times.

Responsible for environmental sampling throughout the plant.

Maintaining Laboratory housekeeping standards.

The Micro Lab Technician will carry out product testing using Microbiological Test Methods.

They must carry out sampling at process sample points and test product throughout the process to ensure no microbiological impact is identified.

The Micro Lab Technician will also carry out in-process testing.

This function will assist with collection and testing of extra samples throughout the process during trials of new product innovation.

They must carry out daily checks on laboratory equipment including incubators and fridges as per appropriate up to date SOPs.

The Micro Lab Technician will assist in the validation process of new equipment where required.

All equipment must be qualified prior to use and the Micro Technician will assist in this process.

Observing and analysing results from microbiological test results.

All laboratory results must be documented and communicated in a timely and efficient manner.

All waste should be disposed of as per procedure and all safety measures should be taken as required.

Monitoring stock levels of test consumables & laboratory supplies and reporting ordering requirements.

Provide training to new team members as required. Ensure all training delivered is documented appropriately.

Changes may occur to job function as updates are made to GMP procedures, EHS requirements, Technical / New Equipment, Quality Procedures & SOP’s.

This list of responsibilities may change depending on plant needs and employees are expected to be adaptable and flexible where this need arises.

Follow all Environmental, Health and Safety Rules and Regulations within the plant.

Report any current or potential hazards to your manager immediately.

The Micro Technician must wear the correct Personal Protective Equipment (P.P.E.) at all times for the work they are carrying out. Appropriate controls such as a fume hood and ventilation must also be taken where required.

Major Responsibilities

The technician will carry out all testing associated with Batch Release & Microbiological Analysis and Environmental monitoring.

Education Required

BSc in Microbiology or related Scientific discipline.

Skills & Experience

Strong understanding of compliance and quality standards.

Very good understanding of microbiological techniques & methods used.

Computer skills including Word & Excel. Familiarity/experience with LIMs an advantage.

Excellent attention to detail & strong interpersonal skills.

Accountability / Scope

Batch testing is critical to overall quality of the product. Incorrect results could potentially lead to a rejected batch or distressed inventory.

Learn more about our health and wellness benefits, which provide the security to help you and your family live full lives: Abbott in Ireland | Benefits

Connect with us at www.abbott.com or https://www.ie.abbott/, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/abbott-/, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott and on Twitter @AbbottNews.