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Applied Microbiology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archer Daniels Midland

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

Associates or Bachelor's Degree in an applied science or related field ( e.g., Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, etc.). * Attendance and punctuality is required. * Strong attention to detail and ...

Iff

Research Associate

Wilmington, DE

Experience in industrial biotechnology or applied microbiology environments * Familiarity with scaling microbial processes or product development pipelines * Exposure to quality systems, regulatory ...

PDI

Microbiologist II

Orangeburg, NY · On-site

$60K - $68K/yr

... are applied * Collaborate with third party lab to ensure specifications and results are provided and processed appropriately * Support LIMS or special projects specifically related to microbiology

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$13

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How much do applied microbiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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.
More about Applied Microbiology jobs
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 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.
Lead Technician - Microbiology Laboratory - Decatur, IL

Lead Technician - Microbiology Laboratory - Decatur, IL

Archer Daniels Midland

On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

ADM rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 184 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

91st of 355 rated logistics

Job description

Lead Technician - Microbiology Laboratory - Decatur, IL
Full Time, non-Exempt position
Position Summary:
Perform hands on microbiological testing of samples for the Microbiology Laboratory that services 20+ internal ADM food manufacturing facilities within North America.
Accurately interpret, record, and report analytical results in a timely matter.
Support and comply to all applicable FDA, GMP, USP, Biosafety, and OSHA requirements. Demonstrate leadership competencies and assist management with laboratory special projects.
Lead continuous improvement and change management projects.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Prepare and handle samples, perform microbiological testing following laboratory procedures, interpret, and report results in a timely manner.
  • Prepare media, reagents, and solutions for a variety of microbiological tests (Pour Plate, Streak Plate, Molecular, and Rapid tests, etc.).
  • Demonstrate a strong understanding of microbiological techniques.
  • Follow appropriate GLP's and aseptic technique.
  • Troubleshoot and perform basic maintenance on lab instrumentation (MDS, pH meter, auto -pipettes, analytical balances, etc.).
  • Demonstrate ability to utilize lab systems (e.g. including computers, applications, and software). Maintain awareness and adhere to all applicable FDA, GMP, USP, Biosafety, OSHA and employer standards and guidelines.
  • Follow laboratory standards and maintain compliance with ISO 17025:2017.
  • Lead technical troubleshooting when laboratory leadership is unavailable (weekend or holidays). Assist lab management with batching (authorizing) in Labware and customer reports.
  • Train new hires on new procedures.
  • Perform non-routine tasks assigned by laboratory leadership when necessary.
  • Lead execution and implementation of continuous improvement and change management projects. Support Management to ensure achievement of laboratory goals and objectives.
Job Requirements:
  • 5+ years of work experience in a Quality Laboratory
  • Preferred: Associates or Bachelor's Degree in an applied science or related field ( e.g., Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, etc.).
  • Attendance and punctuality is required.
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Ability to multi-task.
  • Excellent communication skills and willingness to learn new responsibilities. Capable of working individually and with a team.
  • Adaptable to a fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrates leadership, ability to be a team player, encourages compliance to laboratory procedures/best practices, and performs training with junior level team members.
  • Demonstrates ability to lead change management and continuous improvement projects.
Working Conditions:
  • Employees in this position working at this location may be exposed to various potential biological, chemical and food allergens due to the nature of our business and the requirements of the job. Procedures must be adhered to, to minimize/eliminate exposure.
  • If there is any reason such exposure would interfere with your ability to perform this role or work at the location, please notify the hiring manager.
Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. 
REF:110171BR
 

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