QC Analyst - Graduate Opportunity (Microbiology / Chemistry)

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 Analysts through our structured Career Accelerator Programme.

QC Analyst (CLS Career Accelerator Program)

We are now offering graduates the opportunity to launch their careers as QC Analysts through our structured Career Accelerator Programme. This is a full-time, permanent role from your first day of training, combining hands-on experience in both microbiology and analytical chemistry.

You will begin training in our accredited Galway laboratories before progressing to client sites, gaining real-world experience in regulated environments.

What’s Important

• Gaining practical laboratory training across both microbiology and chemistry disciplines

• Building a strong foundation in GMP-regulated environments

• Developing applied scientific knowledge through CLS’ proprietary training programme

• Growing technical, professional, and leadership skills

• Progressing into a specialised career pathway within CLS or client organisations

The Role

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

• Perform QC testing across microbiology and analytical chemistry techniques

• Use LIMS for data management and reporting

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

• Maintain accurate documentation and high-quality laboratory practices

• Carry out general laboratory duties (calibration, housekeeping, glassware, etc.)

• Collaborate effectively within a team while also working independently

Career Accelerator Programme

Phase 1: Launch

Training in CLS’ proprietary applied competency programme, delivered from our GMP and INAB accredited laboratories.

Compliance Training:

• Laboratory Safety, Gowning & Aseptic Techniques

• Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)

• Good Documentation Practice (GDP)

• Deviations & Investigations

• Data Integrity

Technical Training:

· Microbiology:

• Water Testing (USP & EP: potable, surface, WFI)

• Environmental Monitoring

• Microbial Limit Testing (TAMC, TYMC, specified organisms)

• Filtration Testing

· Chemistry:

• Basic analytical techniques (pipette use, balance use, solution & standard preparation)

• pH, conductivity, TOC, Karl Fischer (KF), FTIR

• Heavy Metals and Nitrates

• HPLC and associated instrumentation

Transversal Skills Training:

· Professional Behaviour

· Time Management & Prioritization

· Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

· Effective Communication

· Technical Writing

· Interview Skills

Phase 2: Accelerate

Apply your training in regulated pharmaceutical and medical device environments, working on real client projects, and building hands-on expertise.

Phase 3: Mastery

Specialise in a chosen career stream:

• Technical Specialist

• Leadership

• Quality Assurance

• Lean

• Training

Where You Come From

• A third level qualification in a related Science discipline.

• Basic knowledge of laboratory techniques

Who You Are

• Passionate about starting a career in the pharmaceutical or medical device industry

• Motivated, adaptable, and eager to learn

• A strong team player with the ability to work independently

• Detail-oriented with a commitment to quality and compliance

• Organised with strong time management skills

• Able to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines

• Excellent communication skills

What We Offer

• A full-time, permanent role from day one

• Structured training in microbiology and chemistry

• Hands-on experience in accredited labs and client sites

• Clear career progression through the Career Accelerator Programme

• Opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic, expanding industry

• A collaborative and supportive working environment