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Applied Microbiology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Applied Medical

Microbiologist

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

$71K - $80K/yr

... where Applied Medical operates. Qualifications: This position requires the following skills and attributes: * Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, or a related field * Knowledge of ISO/IEC ...

Applied Medical

Microbiologist

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

$71K - $80K/yr

... where Applied Medical operates. Qualifications: This position requires the following skills and attributes: * Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, or a related field * Knowledge of ISO/IEC ...

Work With Us : USDA ARS

Microbiologist

Manhattan, KS · On-site

$89K/yr

Microbiology is a broad field of science encompassing a number of scientific disciplines or areas of science, the fields in which this science is applied, and related fields where the work is ...

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How much do applied microbiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for applied microbiology in the United States is $21.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is applied microbiology?

Applied microbiology is the branch of microbiology that focuses on using microorganisms—such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses—for practical purposes in industries like medicine, agriculture, food production, and environmental management. Professionals in this field study how microbes can be harnessed to produce antibiotics, ferment foods, clean up pollutants, and improve crop yields. Applied microbiologists often work in laboratories and collaborate with other scientists to develop new products and technologies that benefit society. This discipline bridges basic microbiological research and real-world applications to solve problems and create value.

What is the work of applied microbiology?

Applied microbiology involves using microorganisms to develop products, improve processes, and solve problems in fields such as healthcare, agriculture, food production, and environmental management. Professionals in this field conduct research, perform laboratory experiments, and apply microbiological techniques to meet industry needs.

Where can an applied microbiologist work?

Applied microbiologists can work in a variety of settings including healthcare laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, food and beverage industries, environmental agencies, and research institutions. They often utilize skills in microbiological techniques, laboratory analysis, and quality control to support product development, safety, and environmental monitoring.

What are some common challenges faced by applied microbiologists when working on industrial projects?

Applied microbiologists often encounter challenges such as optimizing microbial processes for large-scale production, ensuring contamination control, and meeting strict regulatory standards. Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams—such as engineers, quality assurance, and production staff—is essential to address issues like scale-up from lab to manufacturing and troubleshooting unexpected microbial behavior. Staying current with new technologies and adapting to rapidly changing industry needs can also be demanding, but these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and professional growth.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

In applied microbiology or related fields, entry-level laboratory technician roles or microbiology assistant positions can sometimes pay around $3,000 monthly, especially with relevant certifications or experience. Additionally, roles in food safety, environmental testing, or biotech support may offer similar wages without requiring a degree, often relying on technical skills and on-the-job training.

What is the difference between Applied Microbiology vs Microbiologist?

AspectApplied MicrobiologyMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology or related field; certifications varyBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology; advanced roles may require PhD
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, industrial settings, healthcare, food productionResearch labs, healthcare, academia, industry
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, food industry, biotech, environmental agenciesResearch institutions, hospitals, biotech companies

Applied Microbiology focuses on practical applications of microbiology in industries like healthcare, food, and environment. Microbiologists often conduct research, study microorganisms, and develop new products or solutions. While both roles require microbiology knowledge, Applied Microbiology emphasizes applying this knowledge in real-world settings, whereas Microbiologists may focus more on research and discovery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Applied Microbiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Applied Microbiologist, you need a solid background in microbiology, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by a degree in microbiology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), molecular biology tools, and relevant certifications like biosafety training are valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this field. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate research, safe laboratory practices, and successful collaboration in developing solutions across healthcare, agriculture, and industry.

What careers can I do with a microbiology degree?

A microbiology degree prepares individuals for careers such as clinical microbiologist, research scientist, quality control analyst, or laboratory technician. These roles often require knowledge of laboratory techniques, microbiological testing, and sometimes certification or advanced training in specific areas like infectious disease or food safety.
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Applied Microbiology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Applied Microbiology job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,914 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
2nd Shift Microbiology Lab Assistant - Temporary

2nd Shift Microbiology Lab Assistant - Temporary

Johnsonville

Sheboygan Falls, WI • On-site

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Johnsonville rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

81st of 395 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Johnsonville Location: Meadowside

Our No. 1 priority at Johnsonville is providing a safe work environment for every Member we employ. Our industry-leading safety record, coupled with the safety awards we've received, demonstrate this commitment. Members of our safety team maintain the safety of Johnsonville Members in our facilities, continuously finding new and better ways to do so. We're also dedicated to producing only the highest-quality products for consumers worldwide to enjoy - ones we would be proud to serve at our own family table. Our quality team ensures Johnsonville meets or exceeds all standards set by the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), of the US Department of Agriculture and other regulatory agencies. Our commitment to quality is unparalleled, thanks to the dedication of each quality team member.

Position Overview

Your contribution will help ensure that Johnsonville products are of the highest quality and meet our defined standards of safety. This temporary position will support routine microbiology lab testing, sample preparation, environmental monitoring, and related documentation. You'll learn about a variety of manufacturing processes, expand your knowledge of microbiology techniques, and apply it to the business of making sausage. Weekend work will be required as part of the regular schedule.

Responsibilities
  • Generate, analyze, and interpret microbiological data and reports
  • Conduct basic applied microbiology QC and pathogen testing procedures using standard, rapid, and "State of the Art" detection technologies
  • Collect and analyze daily/weekly pre-operational and/or operational environmental swabs at the Sheboygan Falls Campus
  • Collect and analyze daily/weekly raw materials and finished product samples
  • Collect samples from production areas and other facility locations as needed, following established sampling procedures and safety requirements
  • Demonstrate strong laboratory technique, attention to detail, and accuracy when preparing, handling, testing, and documenting samples
  • Follow Good Laboratory Practices, lab safety expectations, and standard operating procedures to help ensure reliable and consistent results
  • Maintain daily, monthly, and quarterly certification records
  • Perform and follow Microbiology Quality Assurance and Quality Control protocols and procedures
  • Help with general laboratory preparation (microbiological media, sterilize scientific glassware, and preparation of standard solutions)
Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree, coursework, or hands-on experience in food science, microbiology, biology, laboratory science, or a related field preferred
  • Willingness and ability to learn basic microbiology testing methods, lab safety practices, and Johnsonville quality procedures required
Experience
  • Experience setting-up and maintaining laboratory equipment and instrumentation for routine microbiology tests and analyzing environmental and food samples preferred
  • Previous laboratory, quality, food manufacturing, or sample handling experience preferred
Skills
  • Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office programs; Strong Excel skills, ability to create spreadsheets and databases with formulas, queries, and calculations
  • Ability to work both independently and as a team member without direct supervision
  • Strong data entry and management skills
  • Commitment to continuous improvement
  • Strong communication skills
Other Requirements
  • Time Commitment: 4-5 Month Opportunity (Ending in November 2026).
  • Hours: 2nd Shift; 12:00pm - 8:30pm. Rotational weekend work will be required.
  • Member Status: Full-time, Hourly (Office Technical); Willing to consider candidates seeking part-time employment with a minimum of 20-25 hours per week.
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must have valid driver's license to be able to drive to all Sheboygan Falls facilities to collect samples and support lab activities
Benefits and Compensation

Johnsonville offers access to the 24/7 onsite fitness center, and onsite medical clinic! Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and location. 


Applicants must be eligible to work in the country where this job is located, without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.

About our Company

Since 1945, our family-owned band of sausage-makers has invented better ways to make, eat and prepare crave-able sausage.  Today, we are 4,000+ Members strong.  We sell our famous sausage in all 50 United States and more than 40 countries.  We have a culture built on the idea that if we make developing your talents our top priority, great business results will follow naturally.  We call it The Johnsonville Way.  It has been our secret sauce for decades, and we hope you get to experience it for yourself!

Johnsonville is an equal opportunity employer, including Vet/Disability. 

We embrace the principles of Equal Opportunity Employment and do not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic, including protected veteran and disability status.

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