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Biodefense Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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Biodefense information

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$23

$41

$56

How much do biodefense jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for biodefense in Texas is $41.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.35 and $47.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is biodefense?

A Biodefense job involves protecting people, animals, and the environment from biological threats, such as infectious diseases, bioterrorism, and pandemics. Professionals in this field work in government agencies, research institutions, healthcare, and private industries to develop countermeasures, policies, and response strategies. Their responsibilities may include disease surveillance, biodefense policy development, laboratory research, and emergency preparedness planning.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities in biodefense?

Professionals working in Biodefense commonly engage in tasks such as monitoring biological threats, developing response plans, conducting risk assessments, and collaborating with scientists, government agencies, and public health officials. Day-to-day work can include laboratory research, reviewing outbreak data, writing technical reports, and participating in emergency preparedness drills. Many roles also involve ongoing training in biosafety procedures and staying current with emerging infectious disease trends. This collaborative and dynamic environment requires adaptability and proactive communication to respond quickly to potential biological incidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in biodefense?

To thrive in Biodefense, you generally need a background in biology, microbiology, public health, or a related field, often backed by an advanced degree and specialized training in infectious diseases or threat assessment. Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols, bioinformatics tools, and certifications such as Certified Biosafety Professional (CBSP) or HAZMAT training is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, clear communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are key soft skills in this field. These skills enable professionals to effectively detect, prevent, and respond to biological threats, ensuring public safety and national security.

How to get a job in biodefense?

To pursue a career in biodefense, candidates typically need a background in biological sciences, public health, or related fields, along with relevant experience or research in biodefense or biosecurity. Earning advanced degrees, such as a master's or Ph.D., and obtaining certifications like the Certified Biological Safety Professional can enhance prospects. Job opportunities are often found in government agencies, research institutions, and defense organizations, with security clearances sometimes required.

What can you do with a biodefense degree?

A biodefense degree prepares individuals for roles in government agencies, research institutions, and private companies focused on biosecurity, disease prevention, and response to biological threats. Graduates often work as biodefense analysts, public health officials, or laboratory scientists, utilizing skills in microbiology, epidemiology, and risk assessment. Certifications and security clearances may be required for certain positions.

What is the future of biodefense?

The future of biodefense involves increased focus on emerging infectious diseases, biothreat detection, and rapid response capabilities. Professionals in biodefense will likely need expertise in microbiology, epidemiology, and the use of advanced technologies such as biosensors and data analysis tools to enhance national security and public health preparedness.
Infographic showing various Biodefense job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,386 per year, or $41.1 per hour.

Animal Caretaker I - Biocontainment Support (ABSL 2 & 3)

Texas Biomedical Research Institute

San Antonio, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Description

Texas Biomed is searching for an Animal Caretaker - Biocontainment Support to join our team. This candidate will provide general husbandry and animal handling inside the ABSL-2 and ABSL-3 laboratories. Candidate will assist with documentation of data obtained from daily animal care.

The Role
Provide daily care for non-human primates, e.g., watering, feeding, daily cleaning of cages, etc. within ABSL 2 & 3 labs
Provide all other aspects of primate husbandry, including health checks, recording data and assisting Veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians in health care and assist in environmental enrichment program.


Our Ideal Candidate

High school diploma or GED required. Prefer one-year specific job experience or bachelors degree in related discipline.

AALAS Certificate at the ALAT level preferred or licensed veterinary technician (LVT).

Animal experience preferred.

Must have valid driver's license and meet Texas Biomed driving standards.

Who We Are:

Join our incredible mission to pave the way for a world free from the fear of infectious disease!


Texas Biomedical Research Institute is pioneering and sharing scientific research to protect you, your families, and our global community from the threat of infectious diseases. Our scientific discoveries create breakthroughs in medical research to provide better overall global health.


Texas Biomed is the only independent, nonprofit infectious disease research institute in the U.S. to combine:

  • The highest-level biocontainment labs for infectious disease and biodefense research
  • A federally-designated National Primate Research Center
  • More than 80 years of discoveries advancing diagnostics, vaccines and therapies
  • An entrepreneurial culture and specialized expertise in regulated science required for FDA approval

What We Can Offer You:

  • Recognized as one of the San Antonio Business Journal's Best Places to Work in 2025.
  • Awarded the 2024 Healthy Workplace Platinum Recognition by the San Antonio Business Group on Health (SABGH).
  • Employee-centered culture focused on open communication, job empowerment, and trust.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for you and your family (including your pets!).
  • Competitive employer-funded retirement plan with 6% contributions starting on day one, increasing with years of service.
  • Generous paid time off, including 14 paid holidays and a paid Winter Recess (last week of December until New Year's).
  • On-site medical clinic, wellness incentives, and paid prescription drug resources to support your health.
  • On-site gym and wellness programs to help you stay active.
  • Flexible work arrangements designed to support work-life balance.
  • We offer a relaxed dress code so you can feel comfortable and be yourself at work.
  • Dynamic learning environment with professional development, mentorship, tuition reimbursement, and leadership programs to help you grow.


We take pride in fostering a culture of respect, opportunity, and unity! Texas Biomedical Research Institute provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status.