Job Introduction

Thanks for checking out our vacancy, we’re delighted you want to learn more about Dechra.

Dechra are a growing, global specialist within the world of veterinary pharmaceuticals. Our expertise is in the development, manufacture, marketing and sales of high quality products exclusively for veterinarians worldwide.

Here at Dechra, our values are embedded within our culture and thrive within our family of almost 2000 colleagues globally. From manufacturing to marketing, (D)edication, (E)njoyment, (C)ourage, (H)onesty, (R)elationships and (A)mbition are at the heart of our everyday operations and the way we do business

The Opportunity 

As a Microbiologist you are involved in carrying out Microbiological testing on finished and intermediate product, raw materials and the microbiological environment of the facility and utilities.

All QC activities are performed according to established procedures and following the principles of cGMP and cGLP according to the Dechra Quality Management System.

Role Responsibility

So, what will you be doing? This role has a broad and varied remit and the successful candidate will have responsibility for duties including:

• Sample facilities and utilities using active air, settle plates, contact plates, swabs and rinses.
• Performing microbiological testing of finished and intermediate products and the environment they are manufactured in, in accordance with cGLP requirements. Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements are met and all results meet specifications.
• Evaluate the results obtained against specification and trend.
• Execution of microbiological tests including (but not limited to):
  • Water testing (LAL & Membrane filtration)
  • Bioburden testing
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Dispersion testing using a microscope
• Co-ordination, preparation and dispatch of samples to external laboratories for analysis.
• Performing regular maintenance and minor repairs, keeping clean and calibrating equipment, materials and spaces.
• Perform analysis for process, product, cleaning and equipment validation studies.
• Conducting analysis for stability studies.
• Carry out analysis for method transfers to or from other laboratories.
• Checking and analysing data, documents, methods and procedures.
• Conducting examinations as a result of Out-of-Specification results, deviations and other quality-related investigations.
• Liaising with internal customers to meet their requirements.
• Ensure the cleanliness in the laboratory rooms and the individual workplace.
• Keeping inventory and orders of microbiological stock, consumer goods and parts of equipment.
• Providing training to new employees or colleagues.
• Arranging the execution of external research, sending samples, processing reports and checking the progress of the work to be carried out.
• All other tasks that can reasonably be requested and approved by the management.
• Ensure both your own health and safety and that of others, ensure that all company safety and quality systems and relevant legislation are complied with, ask questions and report any incidents or suggestions to the manager;
• Ensure that all waste is safely removed and is in line with business processes.
• Stay abreast of developments in the field through training, reading of literature, documentation and the like.

The Ideal Candidate

Here at Dechra we pride ourselves on being an inclusive employer and we embrace candidates from all walks of life. We’re particularly keen to hear from those who have/are

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in a pharmaceutical GMP quality control laboratory would be desirable but not essential.
• BSc Hons in Microbiology or equivalent in scientific field or relevant experience.
• Knowledge of Microbiological testing such as LAL, Membrane Filtration, bioburden, environmental monitoring, Dispersion, Use of a Microscope, Gram staining, Incubation of samples.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment to be used.
• Computer literate including word and excel.
• Excellent concise technical writing skills with attention to detail including formatting for clarity.
• Knowledge of environmental, health and safety, and regulatory standards

About the Company

Dechra is a global specialist in veterinary pharmaceuticals and related products business. Our expertise is in the development, manufacture, marketing and sales of high quality products exclusively for veterinarians worldwide.

We are a global leader in veterinary endocrinology and topical dermatology, have a broad portfolio of analgesia, anaesthetics and products for the treatment of pain, and are also recognised as innovators in other specialisations such as the treatment of equine lameness, nutrition and differentiated generics. 

We deliver high quality products and services to veterinarians worldwide through our employees and a network of third parties to sustainably improve global animal health and welfare.

Everything we do is underpinned by our Culture and Values. They are important to us and have helped drive the Group’s success. 

Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC