2

Entry Level Microbiologist Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Microbiologist information

See Colorado salary details

$36.3K

$74.3K

$132.5K

How much do entry level microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level microbiologist in Colorado is $74,286.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,200.00 and $87,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level microbiologist?

Entry level microbiologists are professionals who have recently completed their education, typically with a bachelor's degree in microbiology or a related field, and are beginning their careers in the study of microorganisms. They work under the supervision of more experienced scientists, assisting with experiments, collecting and analyzing samples, and maintaining laboratory equipment. Their roles often include preparing media, documenting results, and following safety protocols. Entry level microbiologists can work in various industries, such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food safety, and environmental science.

What does an entry level microbiologist do?

As an entry-level microbiologist, your job is to work in a laboratory and use a variety of methods to test each microorganism, collect data, and use analysis procedures to explain the results. Microbiologists typically focus on science and research, but as an entry-level employee, your main job is to learn the various aspects of this job by participating in a variety of studies. Entry-level microbiologists often clean and sterilize equipment, manage lab inventory, document information, take notes, collect environmental samples, and complete other tasks as assigned. You may work unusual hours due to the extra time and attention required to get the job done. For example, you may be asked to work ten hours a day for four days each week.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level microbiologist?

To thrive as an Entry Level Microbiologist, you need a solid background in biology or microbiology, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, aseptic techniques, and software for data recording or analysis such as LIMS is often required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing accurate scientific results, maintaining laboratory safety, and collaborating effectively within research or quality control teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level microbiologists during their first year on the job?

Entry level microbiologists often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict laboratory protocols, learning to use specialized equipment, and accurately documenting experimental results. Adjusting to the fast-paced environment and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams can also require some adjustment. However, with mentorship and a willingness to learn, most new microbiologists quickly grow comfortable with these expectations and develop strong foundational skills for future advancement.

What is the difference between Entry Level Microbiologist vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectEntry Level MicrobiologistLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in microbiology or related fieldAssociate's degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, healthcare, pharmaceutical companiesClinical, industrial, or research laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech firms, hospitalsHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing plants

Entry Level Microbiologists and Laboratory Technicians often work in laboratory settings, but microbiologists typically require a bachelor's degree and focus on research and analysis, while technicians may have an associate's degree and assist with routine testing. Both roles are essential in healthcare and biotech industries, but microbiologists usually engage in more complex experiments and data interpretation.

How to start a career in microbiology?

To start a career as an entry-level microbiologist, obtain a bachelor's degree in microbiology, biology, or a related field. Gaining laboratory experience through internships or research projects and developing skills in aseptic techniques, microscopy, and data analysis are essential. Certification or training in laboratory safety and relevant tools can also improve job prospects.

Is there a demand for entry level microbiologists?

Entry level microbiologists are in steady demand across healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food safety, and environmental sectors. Employers seek candidates with laboratory skills, knowledge of microbiological techniques, and relevant certifications, with job growth expected to continue as these industries expand.

What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiologist jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Microbiologist jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Microbiologist jobs in Colorado?

For Entry Level Microbiologist jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Microbiologist jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Microbiologist jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Entry Level Microbiologist jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Entry Level Microbiologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Microbiologist job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 42% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 39% Physical, and 61% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,286 per year, or $35.7 per hour.

Lab Operator - Oskar Blues Brewery

Monster Brewing Company

Longmont, CO โ€ข On-site

$20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Description

Objective


Entry level. Perform basic QA/QC functions in the lab with supervision. This position reports to the Lab Manager.


Essential Responsibilities

  • Maintain all quality and safety standards set for beer production at Monster Brewing facilities.
  • Prepare analytical standards and microbiological media.
  • Obtain samples from various points of the beer production process, aseptically as required.
  • Conduct and/or facilitate basic analytical, microbiological, and sensory analysis on product, yeast, process, and water samples.
  • Log information immediately and accurately, across multiple logs.
  • Report out analytical data across facility via email.
  • Follow standard operating procedures to safely handle chemicals and hoses/vessels under pressure while wearing PPE.
  • Maintain lab glassware and other equipment.
  • Use Microsoft Excel to conduct QC spec checks, data interpretation, and trending analyses.
  • Complete general cleaning tasks (sweeping, scrubbing, organizing, etc.).
  • Maintain a clean and orderly lab workspace.
  • Escalate problems to coworkers and management immediately.
  • Ability to work on a 12-hour, Pitman Continental Schedule. Shifts start at 6 am and 6 pm. This position rotates 4 months of days, followed by 2 months of overnights.
  • Overnight shifts include a $40 per shift differential.

Additional Responsibilities

  • Performs facility-specific duties as required or assigned.

Requirements

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Ability to demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and ability to multi-task.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and demonstrate willingness to ask questions before proceeding with unsurety.
  • Ability to demonstrate responsible and well-informed decision making.


Physical & Mental Requirements


Must have the physical and mental strength and endurance to be able to perform duties, in at times extreme environments, as well as the ability to handle stressors of the position in operational and administrative situations. Required to frequently lift and move 10-75 pounds. Expected to stand, sit, walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, bend, talk, hear, taste, smell, see, and operate objects, tools, and controls. May be required to work weekend and evening shifts.


Position Snapshot


Employment Type: Full Time

Job Type: Non-Exempt

Pay Type: Hourly, $20.75

Supervisor: Lab Manager

Manages Others: No

Minimum Education: High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent

Preferred Education: Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Microbiology or Related Field

Minimum Certification: N/A

Minimum Experience: N/A

Age Requirement: 21 years or older

Required Travel: 0%

Driving Requirements: No

Tools & Equipment Used: Brewery lab equipment (e.g. micropipettes, microscope, UV/Vis spectrophotometer, pH meter, autoclave, Alcolyzer, densitometer, etc.)


Equal Opportunity


We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.


The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position as a result of evolving business needs.