Microbiology Laboratory Support Specialist

Location: Veghel, The Netherlands
Working Hours: 07:30 AM - 04:00 PM
Contract Length: 4/5 months

About the Role

Every day, thousands of business-critical decisions at Mars Incorporated are made based on laboratory results. Providing timely, accurate, and reliable microbiological data is essential to protecting consumers and brands, strengthening our competitive position, and driving operational excellence.

We are looking for a Microbiology Laboratory Support Specialist to join our laboratory team in Veghel. Reporting to the Microbiology Lab Operations Manager, you will support the microbiology team with routine laboratory operations, sample management, microbiological testing, laboratory administration, and environmental monitoring activities.

You will play a key role in ensuring microbiological analyses are completed accurately and on time, allowing products to be safely released to market while maintaining the highest standards of quality and food safety.

This position is suitable for both experienced laboratory professionals and recent graduates looking to start their career in a professional microbiology laboratory environment.

Key Responsibilities

Sample Management

• Receive incoming samples and verify sample condition, quantity, and temperature requirements.
• Register samples in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Ensure proper sample handling and distribution to the sample preparation area.
• Maintain accurate records and traceability throughout the testing process.

Laboratory Support Activities

• Perform sample preparation activities, including weighing, dilution, and incubation for Salmonella detection.
• Prepare dilutions and plate samples for enumeration of various microbiological parameters.
• Support routine laboratory cleaning and disinfection of benches, equipment, and utensils.
• Ensure laboratory waste is disposed of according to established procedures and waste streams.
• Accurately document laboratory activities and test data in LIMS.

Microbiological Analysis & Media Preparation

• Prepare microbiological culture media and laboratory reagents.
• Perform microbiological analyses according to laboratory SOPs and ISO-based methods.
• Deliver accurate and reliable results within required timelines.
• Maintain testing documentation, records, and traceability in compliance with laboratory quality requirements.
• Conduct environmental monitoring through the analysis of surface swabs and air samples.
• Operate, verify, and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Support inventory management of laboratory consumables, reagents, and supplies.
• Ensure proper handling, processing, and decontamination of biological laboratory waste.
• Contribute to investigations, deviations, corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support the creation, review, and improvement of laboratory procedures and quality documentation when required.

Quality, Safety & Teamwork

• Work in accordance with the Regional Laboratory Quality Management System and Mars Global Laboratory Quality Management requirements.
• Follow all Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) procedures and standards.
• Maintain confidentiality of laboratory information.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues and contribute positively to the laboratory team.
• Participate actively in training programs and personal development opportunities.

About the Laboratory

The laboratory supports the adjacent chocolate manufacturing facility, which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Before products can be released to the market, microbiological testing is performed to verify product safety and quality.

Samples, including finished products, semi-finished products, and environmental monitoring samples, are delivered daily for analysis. Laboratory activities take place exclusively during regular daytime hours.

Although the laboratory operates 7 days per week, this is not a shift-based role. Working hours are consistently 07:30 AM to 04:00 PM, including weekends when scheduled.

The successful candidate will be action-oriented, reliable, and capable of working effectively under deadlines to ensure customers receive accurate and timely results.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• MLO or HLO degree in Microbiology, Laboratory Sciences, or a related discipline.
• Knowledge of classical microbiological testing and analysis methods.
• Understanding of routine food microbiology testing techniques and ISO-based methodologies.
• Familiarity with aseptic working techniques.
• Experience with sample preparation, homogenization, and dilution techniques.
• Understanding of contamination risks and cross-contamination prevention within a microbiology laboratory.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety principles.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Strong organizational skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a microbiology, food testing, or production laboratory environment.
• Familiarity with common laboratory equipment.
• Experience working within an ISO 17025 accredited environment.
• Knowledge of food pathogen testing, including Salmonella, Listeria, and other foodborne microorganisms.
• Experience with molecular microbiology techniques.
• Experience working with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Dutch language skills are an advantage but not essential.

Who You Are

• Accurate, detail-oriented, and quality-focused.
• Hands-on and proactive in your approach.
• Able to prioritize and adapt to changing workloads.
• Self-sufficient and comfortable taking ownership of responsibilities.
• A team player who communicates openly and professionally.
• Results-driven while maintaining high compliance and quality standards.

Working Schedule

• Regular working hours: 07:30 AM - 04:00 PM
• Weekend availability is rarely required as part of the laboratory's 7-day operation.
• Coverage is scheduled according to operational requirements.
• Occasional limited overtime may occur when required by business needs.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to work in a world-class food manufacturing laboratory environment.
• Comprehensive onboarding, training, and development opportunities.
• A collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Exposure to accredited laboratory practices and food safety standards.
• Career growth opportunities within a global organization.

You will join a team of approximately 10 Laboratory Support Specialists and Analysts, supported by 2 Senior Analysts, where teamwork, quality, and continuous improvement are central to success.