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Applied Microbiology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mars

Product Quality Technician

Columbus, OH · On-site

$30.33/hr

Experience with practical applied microbiology in factory environments * Advanced understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP's), Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point Systems (HACCP)

Actalent

Microbiologist

Orangeburg, NY · On-site

... applied. * Collaborate with third-party laboratories to ensure specifications are communicated ... Write scientifically sound microbiology investigation reports, non-conformance evaluations, and ...

Actalent

Microbiologist

Orangeburg, NY · On-site

... applied. * Collaborate with third-party laboratories to ensure specifications are communicated ... Write scientifically sound microbiology investigation reports, non-conformance evaluations, and ...

ChromoLogic

Senior Scientist, Microbiology

Monrovia, CA

$90K - $120K/yr

... applied to biological datasets * Experience with technology commercialization, intellectual ... Exposure to cutting-edge technologies spanning microbiology, genomics, bioinformatics, diagnostics ...

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How much do applied microbiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an applied microbiologist?

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 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 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.

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 analyze samples, develop microbial products, or ensure safety standards, utilizing skills in microbiology techniques and laboratory equipment.
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What states have the most Applied Microbiology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Applied Microbiology jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Applied Microbiology jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Applied Microbiology jobs are:

Applied Microbiology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Applied Microbiology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,914 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Product Quality Technician

Mars

Columbus, OH • On-site

$30.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Mars Inc. rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 444 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Job Description:

Mars Petcare- Product Quality Technician- Columbus, OH

  • Pay: $30.33/hour and $1.50 shift premium

  • This site manufactures Petfood

Shift Schedule:

Rotating Shift (must be available for all)

  • 1st Shift

    • Saturday-Sunday: 7:00 AM - 7:30 PM

    • Monday-Friday: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM

    • Weekend Off

  • 2nd Shift

    • Monday-Friday: 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM

    • Weekend Off

  • 3rd Shift

    • Monday-Friday: 11:00 PM - 7:30 AM

    • Saturday-Sunday: 7:00 PM - 7:30 AM

    • 5 Days Off Monday- Friday

Description of Role:

This role conducts quality verification protocols to ensure finished products meet with Mars Petcare Quality and Food Safety Specifications. They enable conformance to specification through the verification of execution in quality control protocols and/or monitoring of sampling and testing plans. They enable the reduction of food safety incidents and non-quality costs by the immediate escalation of any out of conformance condition detected during verification activities.

What are we looking for?

Minimum Requirements:

  • High School Diploma, GED or equivalent education

  • 1+ years' experience in a manufacturing environment and/or quality control

  • Demonstrated leadership capabilities in leading/influencing others

  • Proficient in computer software's including Excel, Microsoft Office, Outlook, etc.

Physical Requirements:

  • Perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

  • Frequent lifting/carrying (10-50 lbs) and pushing/pulling (50-300 lbs) repetitively

  • Frequent bending, stooping, twisting, handling, and gripping.

  • Ability to work at elevated heights, climb stairs, lean over equipment, and operate in confined spaces.

  • Ability to stand and work on feet for extended periods, with shifts lasting 12 hours

  • Capable of working in hot, cold and wet conditions

  • Proficient in understanding, communicating, reading, and writing in English.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelors Degree, Technical Degree or certification (s) related to Food Science, Food Safety, Engineering, Chemistry etc.

  • 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing site managing quality and food safety management systems

  • Previous experience in a food-related industry

  • Experience with practical applied microbiology in factory environments

  • Advanced understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP's), Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point Systems (HACCP)

  • Knowledge of food microbiology, food safety, manufacturing processes and food laws

  • Understanding of Food safety risk, identification and management, HACCP and prerequisite controls Knowledge of GMP, food allergens, pest control, sanitation, and food safety regulations Strong people and organizational development skills.

What will be my Key Responsibilities?

  • Perform quality verification and monitoring activities for raw materials, packaging, and finished products to ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards.

  • Identify, isolate, and escalate non-conforming materials and quality incidents, including initiating incident investigations and product holds within quality management systems.

  • Support production teams with troubleshooting, risk assessments, foreign material escalation, and real-time quality decision-making during manufacturing operations.

  • Review and verify quality and regulatory documentation, including PCQI conformance records, process charts, net weight checks, and seam/seal integrity documentation.

  • Execute finished product release activities, product inspections, stock reconciliations, and controlled recipe change processes to maintain product quality and traceability.

  • Provide coaching and training to operations associates on quality management processes, record accuracy, compliance expectations, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Total Rewards

  • Starting Pay: $30.33/hour

  • Shift Differential: $1.50/hour

  • Annual Bonus and Merit Increases

  • Benefits Starting Day One:

    • Medical, Vision, and Dental

    • Up to 6% 401(k) match

    • Vacation time

    • Tuition reimbursement

    • Short/Long-Term Disability

    • 18 weeks parental

  • Relocation will not be provided.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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