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Biotech Microbiology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

QC Specialist, Microbiology

Seattle, WA · On-site

$29 - $38/hr

... biotech, or regulated laboratory environment. * -OR- a bachelor's or master's degree in ... microbiology experience in a pharmaceutical, biotech, or regulated laboratory environment.

Microbiologist (Entry)

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$28 - $33/hr

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology or a related scientific field with 1-2 years of relevant laboratory experience, preferably in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry and/or in a GMP environment.

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Microbiologist

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$29 - $31/hr

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology or a related scientific field. * 1-2 years of relevant laboratory experience, preferably within pharmaceutical or biotech environments under GMP. * Proven ability to ...

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Biotech Microbiology information

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How much do biotech microbiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for biotech 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 the highest paying job in biotechnology?

In biotechnology, senior roles such as Biotechnology Directors, Vice Presidents, or Chief Scientific Officers typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and they oversee research, development, and strategic planning within biotech companies.

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

To thrive as a Biotech Microbiologist, you need a solid background in microbiology, molecular biology, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a degree in microbiology, biotechnology, or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as PCR, spectrophotometry, bioreactors, and experience using laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is often required. Strong analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring accurate experimental results, regulatory compliance, and successful biotech innovation.

What is the difference between Biotech Microbiology vs Microbiologist?

AspectBiotech MicrobiologyMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in microbiology, biotechnology, or related field; certifications varyBachelor's or higher in microbiology or related field; certifications optional
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, biotech companies, research facilitiesResearch labs, healthcare, environmental agencies
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech firms, pharmaceutical companies, research institutionsHospitals, government agencies, environmental organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in biotech research and developmentMore general microbiology roles in healthcare and environment

Biotech Microbiology focuses on applying microbiological techniques within biotech and pharmaceutical industries, often involving research and product development. Microbiologists have a broader scope, working in healthcare, environmental, or research settings. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Biotech Microbiology emphasizes industry-specific skills in biotech environments.

What can I do with a BS in microbiology?

A BS in microbiology prepares individuals for roles such as microbiologist, laboratory technician, quality control analyst, or research assistant in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, or biotech industries. These positions often require skills in lab techniques, data analysis, and knowledge of microbiological methods, with opportunities for advancement through certifications or further education.

Which microbiology job has the highest salary?

In biotech microbiology, senior roles such as microbiology directors or research managers tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, and may involve overseeing laboratory operations or strategic planning.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in biotech microbiology, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in biotech microbiology frequently encounter challenges such as maintaining sterile conditions, troubleshooting unexpected microbial growth patterns, and adapting to rapidly evolving laboratory technologies. Managing contamination risks and ensuring accurate experimental results require strict adherence to protocols and continuous training. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams—such as bioengineers or data analysts—is common and helps address complex problems. Regular communication, ongoing education, and flexibility are key to overcoming these challenges and advancing in this dynamic field.

What is biotech microbiology?

Biotech microbiology is a field that combines microbiology and biotechnology to study and use microorganisms for industrial, medical, agricultural, and environmental applications. Professionals in this area work with bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microbes to develop products such as antibiotics, vaccines, enzymes, and biofuels. Their work is crucial in advancing healthcare, improving food safety, and creating sustainable solutions for various industries.

What are 5 careers in biotechnology?

Biotech microbiologists can pursue careers such as research scientist, quality control analyst, clinical microbiologist, regulatory affairs specialist, and laboratory manager. These roles often require knowledge of microbiological techniques, laboratory skills, and relevant certifications. They are typically based in research labs, pharmaceutical companies, or biotech firms and may involve working with pathogens, fermentation processes, or genetic engineering.
More about Biotech Microbiology jobs
What cities are hiring for Biotech Microbiology jobs? Cities with the most Biotech Microbiology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Biotech Microbiology jobs? The most popular types of Biotech Microbiology jobs are:
What states have the most Biotech Microbiology jobs? States with the most job openings for Biotech Microbiology jobs include:
Infographic showing various Biotech Microbiology job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,914 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
QC Specialist, Microbiology

QC Specialist, Microbiology

Lumen Bioscience

Seattle, WA • On-site

$29 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

This position is on-site in Seattle, WA.
Join Lumen Bioscience as a QC Specialist, Microbiology to help establish and perform microbiological quality control testing that supports process development, manufacturing, and product release in an early-stage GMP environment. In this role, you will execute routine and non-routine microbiological assays, including bioburden testing, microbial limits per USP, and environmental monitoring, while helping maintain a compliant QC microbiology lab.
This position is a strong fit for someone who enjoys hands-on lab work and brings solid quality and compliance fundamentals. You will prepare media, reagents, and cultures, document results accurately using Good Documentation Practices, interpret results and trends, and escalate OOS, OOT, or atypical findings. You will also support method qualification and validation, equipment qualification, calibration, and maintenance, and contribute to quality systems by authoring and revising SOPs, test methods, and controlled documents. You will assist with deviation investigations, CAPAs, and change controls as needed, and partner closely with Process Development, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, and external partners to support lot release and program timelines. If you are detail-oriented, organized, proactive, and comfortable building structure in an evolving environment, with a strong commitment to quality and compliance, we encourage you to apply.
Duties & Responsibilities:
This position requires working under the 21 CFR part 210/211 standard pharmaceutical cGXP quality system processes.
  • Microbiology Testing & Analysis
    • Perform routine microbiological assays, including bioburden testing, microbial limits per USP, and environmental monitoring.
    • Conduct adventitious agent screening or support external testing as needed.
    • Prepare media, reagents, and microbiological cultures following SOPs and GMP requirements.
    • Document results accurately in compliance with Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
    • Interpret results, identify trends, and escalate out-of-specification (OOS), out-of-trend (OOT), or atypical findings.
  • Quality Systems & Compliance
    • Author and revise SOPs, test methods, and other controlled documents.
    • Support qualification, calibration, and maintenance of microbiology laboratory equipment.
    • Participate in method qualification/validation and QC readiness for GMP manufacturing.
    • Assist with deviation investigations, CAPAs, and change controls as needed.
    • Ensure work is performed in compliance with cGMP, GLP, and company quality policies.
  • Environmental Monitoring & Facility Support
    • Perform routine environmental monitoring.
    • Trend EM data and support investigation of excursions.
    • Coordinate sample submission to external contract testing labs when required.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration
    • Work closely with Process Development, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, and external partners to support lot release and overall program timelines.
    • Provide microbiology subject matter insights to support risk assessments, contamination control strategy, and process improvements.

Qualifications & Requirements:
  • Education and Experience:
    • Minimum 6 years of work experience in Quality Control in a regulated (cGXP) organization.
    • -OR- a PhD in biochemistry, microbiology, or related scientific field plus 2 years of hands-on microbiology experience in a pharmaceutical, biotech, or regulated laboratory environment.
    • -OR- a bachelor's or master's degree in biochemistry, microbiology or related scientific field plus 5 years of hands-on microbiology experience in a pharmaceutical, biotech, or regulated laboratory environment.
    • Knowledge of relevant cGxP, ISO 9001, and ICH requirements for document control and quality records.
    • Operational experience with PCR-based methods (dPCR preferred; qPCR and RT-PCR helpful).
    • Operational experience with direct ELISA-based methods.
    • Strong leadership and mentoring experience.
  • Skills and Attributes:
    • Hands-on, detail-oriented, and organized.
    • Strong communication skills across technical and non-technical teams.
    • Comfortable building structure in ambiguous or evolving environments.
    • Proactive problem-solver who enjoys continuous improvement.
    • High level of integrity and commitment to quality.
    • Experience supporting clinical-stage or commercial GMP operations.
    • Familiarity with method validation, equipment qualification, and QC lab setup.
    • Familiarity with the MSD platform.
    • Experience with regulatory inspections or QA/QC audits.
    • Ability to support weekend or off shift testing as needed in a startup environment.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to work on-site in Seattle, WA
  • Ability to sit/stand for extended periods of time (2 or more hours)
  • Occasionally lift or carry up to 23 kg

Benefits at Lumen Bioscience:
  • Stock bonus
  • Health, Dental, and Vision premiums fully covered by Lumen
  • 401k match up to 4%
  • Industry-leading PTO policy, paid refresh days, and paid year-end holiday office closure
  • Monthly wellness program to support your health and well-being
  • Free onsite parking or public transportation subsidies
  • Comprehensive parental leave policies
  • Life insurance, short & long-term disability, and access to employee assistance programs

At Lumen Bioscience, we foster a workplace built on collaboration, innovation, and professional growth. This role offers a significant opportunity to contribute directly to cutting-edge biotechnology and the advancement of global health solutions.
Join us to shape innovative solutions and drive operational excellence.
Compensation Range
$85,000-$95,000 USD