1

Clinical Microbiologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Clinical Microbiologist information

See salary details

$28

$37

$49

How much do clinical microbiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of May 27, 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 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.

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 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 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 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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,874 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

$61.53/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

JOB REQUIREMENTS

An incumbent is responsible for planning, organizing, and supervising the technical activities of the Microbiology Unit, including Bacteriology, Mycobacteriology, Mycology, Parasitology, Immunology, Media Preparation, and housekeeping sections. Supervision is received from the Administrative Clinical Laboratory Technologist. This class differs from Clinical Microbiologist I in that an incumbent of the latter class performs journey person level activities in the performance of microbiological and immunological tests and examinations. This class differs from Administrative Clinical Laboratory Technologist in that the incumbent of the latter class is responsible for the functional operation and administration of the Clinical Laboratory.

TYPICAL DUTIES

Participates in the more complex and critical analyses and evaluation of results.

Instructs other technologists and laboratory trainees in the proper procedures and techniques of conducting microbiological tests; gives lectures and examinations; evaluates performance of laboratory trainees assigned to unit.

Maintains quality control in unit; checks operating efficiency of lab oratory equipment and instruments; supervises and participates in preparation and, maintenance of related laboratory records and reports.

Evaluates current methods and procedures for adequacy, accuracy, clinical significance and cost and makes modifications as required; develops procedures, norms and standards for new test; keeps current with new developments in field by reviewing literature and attending seminars.

Maintains supply and equipment control in the Microbiology Unit; orders supplies and maintains inventories; prepares and submits budget request for capital items. Consults with pathologists and other medical staff members on problems related to Unit, consults with Laboratory Director on all new procedures.

May represent Laboratory at meetings and conferences; serves on San Joaquin General Hospital Infection Control Committee.

May collect specimens from patients for tests and examinations. May assist in the administration of the Clinical Laboratory on a rotating basis with other supervising technologists in the absence of the Administrative Clinical Laboratory Technologist.

ABILITY

Perform assigned tasks according to prescribed procedures; make accurate observations and records of test results; interpret test data and draw logical conclusions; correlate test results and evaluate validity; follow oral and written instructions in precise detail; perform examinations using manual or modern automated methodology; collect specimens from patients; with skill, patience and tact; establish effective working relationships with physicians, hospital staff, and others; plan and direct the work of others; develop procedures, norms and standards for new tests and instruct others in them; maintain records and prepare reports of test results; issue and follow oral and written directions of a technical nature.

FTE 0.2 - 07:00AM - 3:00PM - 8HRS

Minimum Requirements

Experience: Two years equivalent to Clinical Microbiologist

Licenses and Certificates:

Possession of a valid license issued by the State of California, Department of Health as a Clinical Microbiologist, Clinical Laboratory Technologist or Clinical Laboratory Scientist limited to Clinical Microbiology.

KNOWLEDGE

The principles, methods, materials, techniques, and terminology of microbiology and immunology as related to medical technology; recent developments, current literature, and sources of information in medical technology; the principles and methods of supervision and training; basic administration of laboratory units.