ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Assistant Microbiologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lief Labs

QC Microbiologist

Valencia, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $34/hr

Conduct ATP and microbiological swabbing activities and evaluate results. * Assist in assessing microbiological risks related to new equipment, facility modifications, and process changes.

Lief Labs

QC Microbiologist

Valencia, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $34/hr

Conduct ATP and microbiological swabbing activities and evaluate results. * Assist in assessing microbiological risks related to new equipment, facility modifications, and process changes.

Lief Labs

QC Microbiologist

Valencia, CA

$25.75 - $34/hr

Conduct ATP and microbiological swabbing activities and evaluate results. * Assist in assessing microbiological risks related to new equipment, facility modifications, and process changes.

American Regent, Inc.

Microbiologist II

Brea, CA · On-site

$79K - $84K/yr

Ordering laboratory supplies and maintaining inventory. * Assist in the development, optimization, and validation of microbiological test methods. * Generate protocols, review data, and write final ...

AMERICAN REGENT

Microbiologist II

Brea, CA · On-site

$79K - $84K/yr

Ordering laboratory supplies and maintaining inventory. * Assist in the development, optimization, and validation of microbiological test methods. * Generate protocols, review data, and write final ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMicrobiologist JobsAssistant Microbiologist JobsAssistant Microbiologist Jobs in California

Assistant Microbiologist information

See California salary details

$14

$22

$34

How much do assistant microbiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant microbiologist in California is $22.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant microbiologist?

Assistant Microbiologists are professionals who support senior microbiologists in laboratories by conducting experiments, preparing samples, analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often work in healthcare, food safety, environmental, or research settings to help detect and study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Their work is essential for ensuring quality control, disease prevention, and advancing scientific knowledge. Assistant Microbiologists must follow strict safety protocols and accurately document their findings to assist in research and reporting.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an assistant microbiologist?

To thrive as an Assistant Microbiologist, you need a solid background in biology or microbiology, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, generally supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, aseptic techniques, and software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities are essential for ensuring accurate data collection, maintaining safety standards, and supporting efficient research or testing processes.

What challenges do assistant microbiologists face in a laboratory setting?

Assistant Microbiologists often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to sterile techniques to prevent contamination, managing time effectively to process multiple samples, and accurately recording detailed observations under tight deadlines. Collaboration with other lab members and senior microbiologists is crucial, as tasks often require coordination across different projects. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing protocols or new equipment can require continuous learning and flexibility in daily routines.

What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiologist jobs in California?

The most popular types of Microbiologist jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Microbiologist jobs in California?

For Assistant Microbiologist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Microbiologist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Microbiologist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Microbiologist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assistant Microbiologist job openings:

Assistant Microbiologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Microbiologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,982 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Microbiologist

Applied Medical

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA • On-site

$71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Applied Medical rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Applied Medical is a new generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field. Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute in a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.
Position Description
The Microbiologist supports testing and laboratory operations within Applied Medical's Biological Sciences Department in Rancho Santa Margarita, California. This role implements and oversees laboratory testing, guides junior team members, and ensures the quality and compliance of experiments in accordance with established procedures and regulatory standards. The Microbiologist works within a collaborative team environment to meet customer expectations and drive continuous improvement in laboratory quality and efficiency. Professionals with backgrounds in microbiology, biology, clinical laboratory science, or life sciences research will find this role a strong match.
Key Responsibilities
  • Implement and oversee laboratory testing functions, including equipment tracking and monitoring, supply management, documentation production, and internal review
  • Troubleshoot testing procedure workflows and continuously suggest process improvements prioritizing efficiency and high quality outputs
  • Ensure the quality and execution of experiments in accordance with established procedures, guidelines, and the laboratory quality management program
  • Guide and coordinate training for Associate Microbiologists and Laboratory Technicians
  • Maintain, calibrate, and oversee the proper installation, repair, and servicing of laboratory equipment, including biosafety cabinets, incubators, and autoclaves
  • Produce, review, and maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation in accordance with specifications
  • Support safety standards in conjunction with the Safety Team, including maintaining Safety Data Sheets and inspecting safety equipment
  • Communicate test results clearly to the Laboratory Manager and cross-functional stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and internal teams
  • Assist in the auditing of internal procedures and recommend improvements to testing processes and equipment

Success in This Role Looks Like
  • Laboratory testing is completed accurately, on time, and in full compliance with established procedures and quality standards
  • Junior team members are well-trained, supported, and consistently performing at a high level
  • Laboratory equipment is maintained proactively, with minimal disruption to operations
  • Documentation and laboratory records are thorough, accurate, and audit-ready
  • Process improvement recommendations lead to measurable gains in testing efficiency and quality
  • Cross-functional partners view the Microbiologist as a knowledgeable, communicative, and dependable resource

Position Requirements
This position requires the following skills and attributes:
  • Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, or a related field
  • Knowledge of ISO/IEC 17025 and/or 21CFR part 58
  • Required experience in microbial laboratory work, including genetic identification, sequencing, and gram-staining
  • Experience with aseptic laboratory techniques and good laboratory practices
  • Knowledge of test procedure standards and guidelines
  • Technical writing skills, including the ability to produce and review laboratory documentation
  • Ability to understand and stay current with regulations, guidance documents, and standards
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, SAP, and Adobe Suite
  • Analytical, meticulous, and detail-oriented approach to laboratory work
  • Ability to multitask and prioritize multiple projects
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills
  • Customer service-oriented mindset

Preferred
The following skills and attributes are preferred:
  • Experience executing protocols and writing technical reports
  • Experience in investigations and root cause analysis

Benefits
  • Competitive compensation range: $71000 - $80000 / year (California).
  • Comprehensive benefits package.
  • Training and mentorship opportunities.
  • On-campus wellness activities.
  • Education reimbursement program.
  • 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
  • Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply.
Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well-being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.
All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.

What Applied Medical employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply