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Clinical Microbiologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Clinical Microbiologist works closely with the Laboratory Director team and pertinent lab members to develop and validate tests and experiments for clinical use, rapid and accurate microbiology ...

Provide clinical operational oversight and consultation for microbiology testing, with the majority of effort devoted to clinical service activities. * Participate in clinical call responsibilities ...

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Clinical Microbiologist information

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How much do clinical microbiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical microbiologist in the United States is $37.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.93 and $39.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Clinical Microbiologist do?

A Clinical Microbiologist is a laboratory professional who specializes in identifying and studying microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that cause infections in humans. They perform tests on samples like blood, urine, and tissue to diagnose infectious diseases, guide treatment decisions, and monitor outbreaks. Clinical Microbiologists also work closely with healthcare providers to ensure accurate diagnoses and may contribute to infection control and public health efforts.

What field of microbiology pays the most?

Within microbiology, clinical microbiologists working in specialized areas such as infectious disease diagnostics or research tend to earn higher salaries, especially with advanced certifications and experience. Fields like industrial microbiology or biotechnology also offer higher pay due to their application in manufacturing and product development. Salaries vary based on location, education, and level of responsibility.

What Is a Clinical Microbiologist?

A clinical microbiologist oversees the collection, transportation, and analysis of biological samples. Job duties include testing various microorganisms, bacteria, fungi, and viral material. Clinical microbiologists work closely with epidemiologists and other clinical biologists to track, assess, and determine the features of various infectious diseases and outbreaks. Outside of the lab, they may work with health care professionals, researchers, and public officials to brief the public and other interested parties about the spread of infectious disease and prevention methods.

How much do clinical microbiologists make?

Clinical microbiologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, with experienced professionals and those in supervisory roles earning higher. Salaries can vary based on location, education, certifications, and work setting such as hospitals or laboratories.

What is the difference between Clinical Microbiologist vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectClinical MicrobiologistMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsMaster's or Doctorate in Microbiology, certification (e.g., ASCP)Associate's degree or certification in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilitiesHospital labs, clinics, diagnostic centers
Job FocusIdentifying pathogens, research, overseeing microbiology testingPerforming routine tests, preparing samples, operating lab equipment

Clinical Microbiologists and Medical Laboratory Technicians both work in laboratory settings, but Clinical Microbiologists focus on pathogen identification, research, and overseeing microbiology testing, requiring advanced degrees and certifications. Medical Laboratory Technicians perform routine testing and sample preparation, typically with an associate's degree. Both roles are essential in healthcare diagnostics but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

Are clinical microbiologists in demand?

Clinical microbiologists are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for diagnostic testing and infectious disease management in healthcare settings. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as laboratories expand and new technologies, such as molecular diagnostics, become more prevalent. Certification and specialized skills can enhance job prospects in this field.

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

To thrive as a Clinical Microbiologist, you need expertise in microbiological techniques, laboratory safety, and disease diagnostics, usually supported by at least a bachelor's degree in microbiology or a related field (with many roles requiring a master's or PhD). Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), automated analyzers, and certifications such as ASCP are often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication enable success in interpreting results and collaborating with healthcare teams. These skills ensure accurate pathogen identification, contribute to patient care, and uphold laboratory quality standards.

What do clinical microbiologists do?

Clinical microbiologists analyze clinical specimens to identify bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that cause disease. They perform laboratory tests, interpret results, and help guide treatment decisions, often working with advanced microbiology techniques and maintaining quality control in a laboratory setting.

What are some common challenges clinical microbiologists face when interpreting laboratory results?

Clinical microbiologists often encounter challenges such as distinguishing between contamination and true infection, especially when dealing with samples that can contain normal flora. They must also stay up to date with emerging pathogens and antibiotic resistance patterns, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Effective communication with physicians and other healthcare professionals is crucial to ensure that laboratory findings are accurately interpreted in the context of the patient's clinical presentation.
What cities are hiring for Clinical Microbiologist jobs? Cities with the most Clinical Microbiologist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Microbiologist jobs? The most popular types of Clinical Microbiologist jobs are:
What states have the most Clinical Microbiologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Clinical Microbiologist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Clinical Microbiologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,874 per year, or $37.4 per hour.
Clinical Microbiologist

Clinical Microbiologist

HEALTHTRACKRX INC

Louisville, KY • On-site

$40.98/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Who is HealthTrackRx?

HealthTrackRx is the nation's leading PCR-based infectious disease laboratory! By delivering next morning results to healthcare providers nationwide, HealthTrackRx is the premier option for patients and healthcare professionals and in an exciting phase of growth!


Job Summary:

The Clinical Microbiologist works closely with the Laboratory Director team and pertinent lab members to develop and validate tests and experiments for clinical use, rapid and accurate microbiology tests for infectious diseases. Their expertise in microbiology techniques will contribute to accurate pathogen detection and analysis, supporting informed and actionable results.


Essential Responsibilities/Duties:

  • Perform a range of microbiological (including susceptibility) and antimicrobial susceptibility tests
  • Utilize laboratory equipment to run tests on bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms and record findings in detailed project reports.
  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment to ensure accurate and efficient testing.
  • Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams to develop and optimize study and assay protocols.
  • Write and execute standard operating procedures to execute microbiology level work.
  • Establish and monitor quality control standards in the lab.
  • Training and supervision of lab personnel.
  • Assist in clinical studies conducted within the organization.
  • Responsible for lab inspections in the Microbiology lab, lab inventories, setting master cultures, and conducting equipment performance checks.
  • Stay updated with emerging trends and breakthroughs in infectious diseases and clinical microbiology.
  • Certify and attest clinical results (acquired from microbial cultures techniques).


Qualifications:

Education –

  • B.S. in Biological, Chemical, Clinical Laboratory Science, or Medical Technology degree program - required

Competencies/Skills

  • Expertise in bacteriology and antimicrobial susceptibility testing including CLS I standard methods

Experience –

  • Experience with analytical validation of microbiologic testing, clinical validation, and clinical trial design
  • At least 1 year of experience performing clinical microbiological testing in a CLIA-certified setting (human diagnostics only)
  • Experience with BioMerieux equipment, including Vitek 2 and MALDI-TOF platforms preferred.