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$8

$26

$61

How much do bacteriologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for bacteriologist in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by bacteriologists in laboratory settings?

Bacteriologists often encounter challenges related to maintaining sterile environments to prevent contamination, which is critical for accurate results. They must also stay updated with evolving safety protocols and handle potentially hazardous biological materials with care. Additionally, troubleshooting unexpected experimental results and adapting to new technologies or methods are regular parts of the role. Collaboration with other scientists, such as virologists or laboratory technicians, is often necessary to interpret findings and ensure quality control.

What does a bacteriologist do?

A bacteriologist is a scientist who studies bacteria, their properties, and how they interact with humans, animals, plants, and the environment. They work in laboratories to identify, classify, and analyze bacterial organisms, often to help diagnose diseases, develop antibiotics, or improve food safety. Bacteriologists may also conduct research to discover new bacterial species or find ways to control harmful bacteria. Their work is essential in healthcare, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bacteriologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bacteriologist, you need a solid background in microbiology, laboratory techniques, and scientific research, usually supported by a bachelor's or advanced degree in microbiology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), aseptic techniques, and specialized equipment such as autoclaves and microscopes is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help bacteriologists interpret data accurately and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring precise identification and control of bacteria, supporting public health, and advancing scientific understanding.
More about Bacteriologist jobs
What are popular job titles related to Bacteriologist jobs? For Bacteriologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Bacteriologist jobs near you
Quality Assurance Technician (Bacteriologist)

Quality Assurance Technician (Bacteriologist)

Nestle Operational Services Worldwide SA

Batavia, OH • On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Driven by integrity and united by the people-and-pet bond, we find strong purpose in the work we do and an even greater joy in those we get to work alongside. Together, we harness the expertise of our long-standing tradition of excellence to embrace possibility and continuously push to do what's never been done before in pet care. Discover your purpose and fuel your passions when you bring your love of pets to a team that prides itself on the power of togetherness-We are Proudly Connected. Purely Driven.
Position Summary
Introducing Nestlé Purina's new Batavia, Ohio, factory - just 30 miles east of Cincinnati. This world-class factory will be built from the ground up to produce a wide variety of some of the most trusted and beloved pet care brands in the U.S. Our passionate team in Batavia will work in an environment that values safety, the latest technology in manufacturing and a culture of learning. Help us write the next chapter of Purina's history.
As the Microbiologist, you will be responsible for managing routine microbiological evaluations of the finished product and the factory production environment. You will be responsible for the development, implementation, review and compliance to the factory's Finished Product Release Program and the Pathogen Monitoring Program. You will support aspects of the HACCP food safety program including verification activities, documentation, and recordkeeping. You will provide training and coaching on hygienic conditions and practices for all associates in the factory.
The schedule will be 6am-6pm, operating on 2-2-3 schedule (two days on, two days off, three days on).
  • Finished product testing and release
  • Lead the factory's Pathogen Monitoring Program, including testing, verification activities, corrective actions
  • Ensures compliance to the Hazard analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Program in the factory
  • Interact extensively with the operations group and influence, coach, and train all factory associates with regards to food safety requirements and expectations
  • Responsible for the proper use and maintenance of lab equipment including the cleaning, verification and calibration and lab inventory
  • Work as a team with other lab associates to achieve shift, department, and factory objectives
  • Participate in continuous improvement activities and uphold Safety and Quality as core values.

Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent
  • 1+ years of laboratory, quality assurance and/or food manufacturing experience required

Other
  • Coursework in Microbiology

The approximate pay range for this position is $45,000 to $59,000. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Final compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to knowledge, skills and abilities as well as geographic location.
Nestlé offers performance-based incentives and a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k with company match, healthcare coverage and a broad range of other benefits. Incentives and/or benefit packages may vary depending on the position. Learn more at About Us | Making an Impact | Nestle Careers (nestlejobs.com)
It is our business imperative to remain a very inclusive workplace.
To our veterans and separated service members, you're at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestlé. The skills you've gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role. In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities. Nestlé seeks such skilled and qualified individuals to share our mission where you'll join a cohort of others who have chosen to call Nestlé home.
The Nestlé Companies are equal employment opportunity employers. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you may require any special accommodations in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Contact us at accommodations@nestle.com or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator: 1-800-321-6467.
This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.
Review our applicant privacy notice before applying at https://www.nestlejobs.com/privacy.
Job Requisition: 399601
Driven by integrity and united by the people-and-pet bond, we find strong purpose in the work we do and an even greater joy in those we get to work alongside. Together, we harness the expertise of our long-standing tradition of excellence to embrace possibility and continuously push to do what's never been done before in pet care. Discover your purpose and fuel your passions when you bring your love of pets to a team that prides itself on the power of togetherness-We are Proudly Connected. Purely Driven.
Position Summary
Introducing Nestlé Purina's new Batavia, Ohio, factory - just 30 miles east of Cincinnati. This world-class factory will be built from the ground up to produce a wide variety of some of the most trusted and beloved pet care brands in the U.S. Our passionate team in Batavia will work in an environment that values safety, the latest technology in manufacturing and a culture of learning. Help us write the next chapter of Purina's history.
As the Microbiologist, you will be responsible for managing routine microbiological evaluations of the finished product and the factory production environment. You will be responsible for the development, implementation, review and compliance to the factory's Finished Product Release Program and the Pathogen Monitoring Program. You will support aspects of the HACCP food safety program including verification activities, documentation, and recordkeeping. You will provide training and coaching on hygienic conditions and practices for all associates in the factory.
The schedule will be 6am-6pm, operating on 2-2-3 schedule (two days on, two days off, three days on).
  • Finished product testing and release
  • Lead the factory's Pathogen Monitoring Program, including testing, verification activities, corrective actions
  • Ensures compliance to the Hazard analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Program in the factory
  • Interact extensively with the operations group and influence, coach, and train all factory associates with regards to food safety requirements and expectations
  • Responsible for the proper use and maintenance of lab equipment including the cleaning, verification and calibration and lab inventory
  • Work as a team with other lab associates to achieve shift, department, and factory objectives
  • Participate in continuous improvement activities and uphold Safety and Quality as core values.

Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent
  • 1+ years of laboratory, quality assurance and/or food manufacturing experience required

Other
  • Coursework in Microbiology

The approximate pay range for this position is $45,000 to $59,000. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Final compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to knowledge, skills and abilities as well as geographic location.
Nestlé offers performance-based incentives and a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k with company match, healthcare coverage and a broad range of other benefits. Incentives and/or benefit packages may vary depending on the position. Learn more at About Us | Making an Impact | Nestle Careers (nestlejobs.com)
It is our business imperative to remain a very inclusive workplace.
To our veterans and separated service members, you're at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestlé. The skills you've gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role. In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities. Nestlé seeks such skilled and qualified individuals to share our mission where you'll join a cohort of others who have chosen to call Nestlé home.
The Nestlé Companies are equal employment opportunity employers. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you may require any special accommodations in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Contact us at accommodations@nestle.com or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator: 1-800-321-6467.
This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.
Review our applicant privacy notice before applying at https://www.nestlejobs.com/privacy.
Job Requisition: 399601

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