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Microbiologist Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Edited by Indeed Employer Content Team
Last updated November 6, 2025
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Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

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5 min read

A 5811380biology13.69microbiology13.2microbiologist9.84laboratory7.07biotechnology4.5138296404797.3526.1756.40HOURLY21057832025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Microbiologist, or Clinical Microbiologist, is responsible for studying microorganisms and how they interact with other living things. Their duties include using laboratory equipment to run tests on bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms, recording their findings in detailed reports and making presentations at conferences and other events about their research findings.

5811380biology13.69microbiology13.2microbiologist9.84laboratory7.07biotechnology4.5138296404797.3526.1756.40HOURLY21057832025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Microbiologist Duties and Responsibilities

By using computers along with a variety of laboratory instruments to conduct their experiments, microbiologists are responsible for analyzing the growth and behavior patterns of all forms of microorganisms. Some of the duties involved in this role are:

  • Performing laboratory experiments used to diagnose and treat illnesses.
  • Supervise biological technicians and their work to evaluate the accuracy of their results.
  • Isolate bacteria and other microorganism cultures for future study.
  • Classify microorganisms found in collected specimens for future reference.
  • Monitor the effects of microorganisms on animals, plants and the environment.
  • Research the findings of other scientists and attend conferences to stay up-to-date.
  • Publish research papers and technical reports of your findings.
  • Present findings to other scientists, engineers, executives and the public.

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Microbiologist Job Description Examples

Example 1

MLS or MLT / Microbiologist| $2,134/Weekly
Location: Corvallis, OR

Position: MLS or MLT / Microbiologist
Location: Corvallis, OR
Duration: 13 Weeks (36 Hours)

Shift: Evenings (1200-2130) Rotating weekends

Job Description

ASCP, AMT, or equivalent certified Medical Laboratory Scientist or Medical Laboratory Technician required upon submission.

Molecular/Microbiology experience required.

Specialty:

Medical Laboratory

Sub Specialty(s):

Medical Technologist, Medical Laboratory Technician

Responsibilities
- Perform specimen collection and processing following established protocols.
- Utilize microbiology knowledge to analyze samples and identify microorganisms.
- Conduct laboratory procedures including ELISA, PCR, and flow cytometry.
- Manage laboratory data and maintain accurate records.
- Collaborate with team members to ensure efficient workflow.
- Adhere to medical laboratory regulations and quality control standards.
- Stay updated on new laboratory techniques and technologies for continuous improvement.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $1,950.00 - $2,134.00 per week

Healthcare setting:
  • Medical laboratory
Schedule:
  • 12 hour shift
  • Evening shift
  • Rotating weekends



Ability to Relocate:
  • Corvallis, OR: Relocate before starting work Location: On the road

Example 2

The EM Microbiologist conducts quantitative and qualitative analysis of pharmaceutical industries Environment according to FDA, ISO, cGMP and Boston Analytical, Inc. Standard Operating Procedures. Duties will include Sampling of pharmaceutical industries through ISO standards and client specific test protocols.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • Collects Environmental Monitoring Samples onsite and offsite at client manufacturing sites.
  • Documents work in a clear and organized manner on the data sheets- follows GDP.
  • Revises procedures and ELNs under close supervision.
  • Follows all safety rules and regulations and conducts periodic safety audits.
  • Follows all cGMP rules and regulations.
  • Under close supervision confers with Microbiologists and other client personnel regarding research, procedures performed, related results and prepares reports.
  • Under close supervision will be trained to become proficient at assigned tasks in order to become subject matter experts.
  • Performs routine data generation and problem solving with a minimal rework.
  • Works under close supervision to ensure all work performed is executed in compliance with standard operating procedures, good manufacturing practices, and the regulations of the Food and Drug Administration.
  • Ensures all work performed strictly adheres to Company, client, ISO and Pharmacopeial methodologies.
  • Performs system maintenance and calibrations to ensure equipment is operating with specified requirements.
  • Proper handling of hazardous waste in compliance with the Company and DES hazardous waste rules.

Requirements & Qualifications

Qualifications include a High School Diploma or Associates Degree in a related science discipline with 0-2 years of related experience. Knowledge of cGMP and related compliance regulations and guidances is preferred.

Minimum Skills Requirements

  • Must have the ability and skill to perform the detailed job requirements noted above competently, safely and proficiently.
  • A self-starter, motivated person who possesses good interpersonal skills capable of effectively interacting with all departments and client personnel.
  • Must have excellent organizational, verbal communication and technical documentation skills.
  • Solid computer skills.
  • Knowledge of safe laboratory practices, including the proper procedures in handling chemicals and samples.
  • Must be a team player with integrity and concern for the quality of Company products, services and staff members.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 10 hour shift
  • 4x10
  • Day shift
Supplemental pay types:
  • Bonus pay

Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Salem, NH 03079: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Application Question(s):
  • What is your desired salary/rate for this position?
  • Are you able to work Sunday through Wednesday?

Education:
  • High school or equivalent Location: One location

Example 3

Senior Microbiologist

Position Description:

Guittard Chocolate Company is an American-based chocolate maker and has made the world s best chocolate for five generations. We are the oldest continuously family-owned chocolate company in the United States. The company was founded in 1868 and is headquartered in Burlingame, California. The Senior Microbiologist incumbent interfaces with internal functions at the manufacturing facilities including Quality, Production, R&D and Maintenances. The incumbent must be an effective technical and team leader, energetic and enthusiastic about the food safety goals and objectives. This position is a non-exempt, full-time and fully benefited position and reports to the Senior Manager of Quality.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Perform/review preparations of reagents, samples, and standards according to procedures.
  • Perform/review routine and complex analyses, calibration and troubleshooting independently.
  • Support lab and procedure improvements to maximize quality and productivity.
  • Develop new analytical procedures and internalize as SOP's
  • Support release of ingredients, in-process and finished goods.
  • Manage the environmental and water testing and sanitation approval.
  • Train and lead junior microbiologist.
  • Take ownership of the ISO 17025 accreditation project.
  • Manage laboratory records and provide test reports.
  • Support internal and external audits for regulatory compliances.
  • Support continuous improvement and other assignments.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor s Degree in Microbiology, Food Microbiology or related field, required.
  • 3+ years full-time microbiologist experience required. Experience in food industry is preferred.
  • Self-starter and highly motivated for continuous improvement.
  • Knowledge in food safety programs and regulations are plus.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools; proficiency in SAP/GLOBE systems.
  • Able to handle multiple assignments.

Guittard Chocolate Company is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Burlingame, CA 94010: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Education:
  • Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:
  • microbiologist: 3 years Location: One location

Example 4

Job description:

Kaycha Labs is a leading provider of innovative Cannabis and Hemp testing technologies and methods. We perform product testing to help ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. We provide comprehensive cannabis testing for potency, homogeneity, heavy metals, microbial contamination, mycotoxins, residual solvents, terpenes, and pesticides.

Job Purpose:

The Microbiologist will be responsible for performing, documenting, record checking, and troubleshooting qualitative and quantitative assays on samples using techniques that vary from the use of standard laboratory equipment to highly modern and automated instrumentation.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Analyze samples consisting of a variety of matrices and cross trained on various laboratory technologies including, but not limited to, bacterial and fungal plating and PCR.
  • Train incoming analysts and technicians on methodology.
  • Responsible for troubleshooting instrumentation to ensure data integrity
  • Prepare samples for analysis while displaying good laboratory technique to avoid cross contamination or misidentified samples.
  • Accurately prepare quality control samples.
  • Interpret and evaluate data in terms of accuracy, precision, trends, and quality control requirements.
  • Provide scientific interpretation of results to supervisor, management, or customers as requested.
  • Maintain a sterile work environment and undergo cleaning procedures as necessary, to ensure ongoing proper workflow. Report contamination issues to supervisor.
  • Prioritize samples and provide guidance and support to the sample prep team for assigned analysis.
  • Perform method validations, or verifications with minimal supervision as needed.
  • Track inventory of supplies and reagents to ensure no interruption of work-flow
  • Oversee root cause analysis for quality assurance.
  • Assist in SOP edits as needed for assigned testing analysis and alert management when there is a change in procedure
  • May be able to perform method development to respond to changing client needs or regulations
  • Research new technologies and methodologies to improve laboratory processes and techniques and make recommendations to supervisors.
  • Other duties and special projects as assigned.

Skills, Abilities and Competencies:

  • Strong understanding of standard laboratory protocol.
  • Maintain high productivity, keen attention to detail, and consistent multi-tasking while yielding a low testing error rate.
  • Strong agility, engagement, and flexibility in an ever-changing environment.
  • Diligent commitment to logging, organizing, and analyzing data.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to effectively work, problem solve, and communicate with multiple levels of the organization.
  • Promote a strong customer service culture while adhering to the highest safety and industry standards, including those that are outlined by the state regulatory body.

Education & Experience:

  • Minimum BS/BA in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering or Environmental Sciences required.
  • Knowledge of principles, terminology, practices, techniques, and instrumentation commonly used in a laboratory setting required.
  • At least 2 years of microbiology experience is preferred.
  • Food science and/or environmental experience is a plus.
  • Exposure to the cannabis industry is a plus.

Example 5

Staff Today Inc. (STI) is currently seeking a Microbiologist 2-Intermediate to work at a Facility in Exton, PA. These are registry positions with our company Staff Today Inc.

??Pay Rate:$36 / hour

Shift Details:

  • 730a 4p (1 hour lunch)

Minimum Qualifications

One year of professional laboratory work experience in microbiology, and
a bachelor's degree that includes 20 credits in microbiology, cellular
biology, molecular biology or bacteriology and 12 credits in chemistry or
[website]
A graduate degree in microbiology
Condition OF Employment: Certain positions will require a possession of
a valid Pennsylvania drivers' license.
Certain positions will require the successful completion of a background risk
assessment check.

Condition OF Employment: Certain positions will require a possession of
a valid Pennsylvania drivers' license.

Certain positions will require the successful completion of a background risk
assessment check.

Role Description: This is advanced professional work in the field of microbiology in a base laboratory
or mobile laboratory setting.

An employee in this job uses advanced microbiological and biomedical laboratory
techniques in the examination of samples and specimens and may direct the work
activities of a small group of professional and technical staff performing
microbiological and biomedical laboratory work.

Work includes the development and implementation of new methods and
techniques.

Work is differentiated from the lower level by the independent responsibility for
conducting research to develop and modify testing methods and procedures and
performing advanced microbiological analysis through the use of advanced testing
procedures and equipment.

Work is performed independently but is subject to periodic review by a supervisor
through documentation reviews, results of quality control samples, written reports
and direct [website] documentation reviews, results of quality control samples, written reportsand direct observation.

If interested in this position, Staff Today accepts applications via email, fax, and mail. You may also apply directly through this job post. If you have any questions, please contact Christianat our offices at [phone number].

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $36.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • Day shift

Experience:
  • professional laboratory work in microbiology: 1 year Location: One location

Example 6

Responsibilities:

High volume petrifilm plating;

PCR Sample preparation and analysis;

Operate small laboratory extraction equipment;

Follow SOPs to maintain high quality data;

Clean, maintain equipment and laboratory;

Wash and sterilize laboratory equipment;

Maintain ISO compliance and follow Good Laboratory Practices;

Record and validate data into appropriate logbooks;

Microbiology method validation;

Coordinate department sample throughput;

Ability to stay organized and multitask in a high volume, fast passed work environment;

Ability to work overtime to maintain turn-around times;

Ability to work well in a team environment;

Needs to be self sufficient and work without micromanagement.

Qualifications:

Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Microbiology or Equivalent;

3+ years analytical microbiology experience;

Environmental or FDA backgrounds encouraged;

Familiarity with ISO 17025.2017;

Knowledgeable with laboratory equipment like: single and multi-channel pipettes, analytical balances, etc.;

Additional Requirements:

Must be a minimum of 21 years of age;

Must be approved for CCC agent card.

Working Conditions:

Required to perform basic math;

Regularly required to perform to perform repetitive motions;

May be required to stand and/or walk for extended periods of time;

Must be able to carry and lift up to 50 pounds.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • On Location: One location

Example 7

Job Description:

As the Microbiologist, you are responsible for coordinating and performing SARS-CoV-2 testing of wastewater samples.

Duties include sample examination and analyses, recording, interpreting, and result reporting of test results.

You are responsible for completing all required Quality Control, compliance with all certification requirements, and maintaining all required safety standards.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Conduct wastewater sample concentration, RNA extraction and PCR molecular testing.
  • Maintain laboratory record system of submitted samples.
  • Evaluate, interpret, and validate laboratory results.
  • Conduct quality control checks on laboratory methods, materials, and equipment.
  • Assists with preparation of reports from data compiled.
  • Participate in evaluation of new products used in environmental laboratory work.

Required Skills:
  • Four (4) year degree (B.S. or B.A.) in a biological science.
  • Experience performing RNA extraction and PCR testing is required.
  • Extensive knowledge of the principles, theories, and practices of molecular testing.
  • Specialized knowledge of current molecular scientific methods and testing procedures.
  • Specialized knowledge of and ability to use a full range of molecular and standard technical equipment
  • Ability to compile, analyse, evaluate, and prepare laboratory reports.
  • Extensive knowledge of laboratory safety practices and principles.
  • Aware of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies concerning the program area.
  • Ability to effectively communicate technical information both verbally and in writing and maintain productive working relationships.
  • Ability to satisfactorily participate in proficiency testing programs.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $21.43 per hour

Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift

Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Indianapolis, IN 46202: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work Location: One location
Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

Read our editorial guidelines
Job Description Best Practices
Optimize your new and existing job descriptions to reach more candidates
Get the Guide

What Does A 5811380biology13.69microbiology13.2microbiologist9.84laboratory7.07biotechnology4.5138296404797.3526.1756.40HOURLY21057832025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Microbiologist Do?

Microbiologists typically work for non-profit organizations, government agencies or research facilities to provide beneficial insights into how microorganisms affect different environments, animals and human beings. They work closely with Lab Technicians and other scientific professionals to complete experiments and find cures for different diseases or environmental problems. Their job is to oversee multiple experiments at one time. They also monitor experiments to record changes or determine how long it takes for a microorganism to interact with a specimen. They may also be responsible for traveling to different locations to collect samples for analysis and testing.

5811380biology13.69microbiology13.2microbiologist9.84laboratory7.07biotechnology4.5138296404797.3526.1756.40HOURLY21057832025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Microbiologist Skills and Qualifications

The microbiologist candidate you are looking for should possess a number of skills in order to make them qualified for your company. One of the most important skills for a 5811380biology13.69microbiology13.2microbiologist9.84laboratory7.07biotechnology4.5138296404797.3526.1756.40HOURLY21057832025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05microbiologist is to be detail-oriented, as they have to be very accurate and precise in their research. They should have an ability to see what others do not. Other preferred skills are:

  • Observation skills as they have to constantly monitor their experiments for behavior patterns.
  • Perseverance so as to not become discouraged through multiple trial and error experiments.
  • Time management skills in order to meet deadlines while also completing a thorough and quality research project.
  • Communication skills to discuss with one another and all others involved in the research and outcome.
  • Math skills to be able to do calculus and statistics that may be involved in their research projects.

Microbiologist Salary Expectations

Based on the statistics submitted to Indeed, the average salary of a microbiologist is $64,895 a year, and the typical tenure is less than one year. This estimate is based on 469 anonymously submitted employee and user salaries, as well as past and present job advertisements.

Microbiologist Salary Expectations

2025-10-017.3526.1756.40HOURLY
  • Common salary: 26.17 HOURLY
  • Typical salaries range from 7.35 - 56.40 HOURLY
  • Find more information on Indeed Salaries

*Indeed data – 2025-10-01

Microbiologist Education and Training Requirements

For entry-level microbiologists, a bachelor’s degree in microbiology or another closely related field is required. In order to conduct independent research or work in universities, the candidate must have a Ph.D. Since microbiologists must have a thorough understanding of microorganisms and math, the majority of their school courses involve science and math courses. Many Ph.D. holders start in temporary postdoctoral research positions where they work with experienced scientists in order to broaden their understanding of their research.

Microbiologist Experience Requirements

Microbiologist candidates must have previous laboratory experience before getting a job in this position. Most undergraduate programs have a mandatory laboratory requirement, but it’s highly recommended to pursue further experience. For example, by undergoing an internship with a prospective employer, the candidate can gain the additional experience they need. Certifications may be required if entering a field dealing with pharmaceuticals, food safety or medical devices.

Job Description Samples for Similar Positions

If a microbiologist isn’t quite what you are seeking for your company, here are some job descriptions for similar positions that may fill your company needs:

Job Description Best Practices
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Get the Guide

Frequently asked questions about Microbiologists?

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