Who We Are

Craft your future with Suntory Oceania, a new $3b multi‑beverage partnership between Suntory Global Spirits and Suntory Beverage and Food. Underpinned by quality, craftsmanship and a strong sense of purpose, our market‑leading portfolio will include over 40 brands such as Jim Beam®, Maker’s Mark® Bourbon, Hibiki® Japanese Whisky, Canadian Club® Whisky, -196, V Energy, Maximus and Suntory BOSS Coffee.

We just opened a $400 million, state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing and distribution facility in Swanbank, Ipswich that is highly automated, sustainable and carbon‑neutral, reflecting our Growing for Good philosophy.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail‑oriented Microbiology Specialist to join our beverage manufacturing team. This role is crucial in ensuring product safety, quality and compliance through robust microbiological practices and strong laboratory leadership. You will drive a proactive food safety culture, focus on GEMBA‑walks, and collaborate closely with production teams to identify risks, implement controls and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

- Manage day‑to‑day microbiology laboratory operations, ensuring accuracy, efficiency and compliance.
- Perform and oversee microbiological testing of raw materials, in‑process and finished products.
- Assist the site Environmental Monitoring Program (EMP), including design, execution and continuous improvement.
- Conduct environmental sampling (air, surfaces, water) and interpret results to identify risks and drive preventative actions.
- Maintain and improve calibration and verification programs for laboratory equipment and methods.




- Ensure data integrity, accuracy and timely reporting of results.
- Actively engage in GEMBA walks, collaborating with production teams to identify risks and drive corrective actions.
- Investigate out‑of‑specification and environmental deviations, implementing effective root cause analysis and corrective actions.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance microbiological control and operational efficiency.
- Support internal and external audits, ensuring compliance with food safety and quality standards.
- Assist in development, review and maintenance of SOPs and laboratory documentation.
- Provide technical guidance and training to team members.

About You

- Degree in Microbiology, Food Science or a related discipline with 3–5 years’ experience.
- Experience in beverage, food or FMCG manufacturing environments.
- Strong understanding of environmental monitoring programs, contamination control and hygienic zoning.
- Demonstrated experience in laboratory management, calibration and verification systems.
- High attention to detail with a strong focus on accuracy and data integrity.
- Proven ability to work autonomously while also collaborating effectively across teams.
- Proactive mindset with a passion for continuous improvement and innovation.




- Strong problem‑solving and root cause analysis skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Why Join Us?

- A Suntory Day – enjoy your birthday by taking a day off on us!
- Grow your career – we promote from within and offer global learning and development opportunities.
- Quarterly product discounts and allowances.
- Flexible working – work the way that suits you.
- We are committed to giving back to our communities and provide volunteer leave.
- Opportunity to purchase additional leave to recharge.
- SunnyStars – get recognised for your hard work with our recognition programme.

Our DEI Commitment

At Suntory, we recognise that diverse knowledge, perspectives and backgrounds contribute to our collective success. We are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where all individuals can bring their whole selves to work every day, regardless of race, colour, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age or any other protected characteristic.

Our recruitment and selection processes are designed to highlight what Suntory offers as an employer while allowing candidates to share their unique skills and experiences. We understand that career trajectories vary, and if you believe your experience or background can benefit our team, we encourage you to apply. We endeavour to make our interview process as inclusive as possible and offer reasonable accommodations as needed. Together, we can cultivate a workplace where everyone can thrive and propel our mission of Growing for Valuable.

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📌 Microbiologist Specialist (Ipswich)
🏢 Suntory Oceania
📍 Ipswich