ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Microbiologist Jobs in Baltimore, MD

Anne Arundel County, MD

Wastewater System Technician I

MD · On-site

$23.52 - $28.89/hr

This Wastewater Systems Technician I position is work at the entry level. This position is part of ... Knowledge of microbiology and kinetics of biological nutrient removal. * Knowledge of oxygen level ...

All JobsMicrobiologist JobsEntry Level Microbiologist JobsEntry Level Microbiologist Jobs in Baltimore, MD

Entry Level Microbiologist information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$34.3K

$70.2K

$125.2K

How much do entry level microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level microbiologist in Baltimore, MD is $70,197.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,200.00 and $82,500.00 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.
More about Entry Level Microbiologist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiologist jobs in Baltimore, MD?

The most popular types of Microbiologist jobs in Baltimore, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Microbiologist jobs in Baltimore, MD?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Microbiologist jobs in Baltimore, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Microbiologist jobs in Baltimore, MD are:

What cities near Baltimore, MD are hiring for Entry Level Microbiologist jobs?

Cities near Baltimore, MD with the most Entry Level Microbiologist job openings:

Entry Level Microbiologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Microbiologist job openings in Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,197 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Core Facility Research Specialist II (Molecular Microbiology & Immunology)

Baltimore, MD • On-site

Johns Hopkins University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 623 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Johns Hopkins Universityexternal

$41K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

The Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute within the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health seeks a full-time Research Specialist II. This position will be situated within the JHMRI Core Insectary Facility under the direct supervision of facility director Dr. Conor McMeniman. The hire will work as part of a team and will be responsible for the mass production and quality control of mosquito colonies required to support JHMRI research operations, including downstream malaria parasite infection and mosquito transgenesis. This position will involve some light lifting, working in a warm and humid environment, and standing for prolonged periods while performing insect husbandry.
The Research Specialist II develops assays and protocols for PI approval and designs experimental approaches for laboratory projects. Performs a range of sophisticated assays. Makes significant contributions to various aspects of laboratory efforts and goals. Responsible for troubleshooting, independent decisions and training/guidance of other laboratory personnel.
Specific Duties & Responsibilities
  • Conduct assigned laboratory projects.
  • Utilize specialized knowledge to interpret results, e.g. read controls, evaluate results, etc.
  • Work independently and use scientific knowledge and lab experience to make judgments and decisions.
  • Teach/train learners, and new technicians in the laboratory.
  • Guide, direct, and facilitate problem solving for entry-level laboratory members on day-to-day problems with more challenging research assays.
  • Make scientific contributions to protocol development, efficiency, and productivity.
  • Collaborate in the development of new techniques and instruments.
  • Apply published research methods to current experimental work by investigating published protocols and discussing them with PI.
  • Scientifically contribute to the preparation of manuscripts and proposals.
  • Process analyzed data into figures for scientific publications.
  • Order equipment and supplies, interface with vendors.
  • Other duties as assigned.

In addition to the duties described above
  • Mass rearing and handling of Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes to support core facility operations.
  • Protocol optimization for mosquito mass rearing.
  • Small animal handling for mosquito colony maintenance.
  • Support mosquito transgenesis activities using embryonic microinjection.
  • Maintain facility operations in compliance with all institutional and USDA guidelines.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field.
  • Two years of laboratory experience performing relevant techniques.
  • Additional education may substitute for required experience and additional related experience may substitute for required education beyond a high school diploma/graduation equivalent, to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's Degree with related graduate research.
  • Excellent organization skills and attention to detail.
  • Experience with husbandry of mosquitoes or other insects under ACL2 and/or ACL3 containment.
  • Experience working with mice.
  • Experience with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and/or aseptic technique.
  • Some experience with standard molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, cloning).
  • Some experience with insect transgenesis protocols (e.g. embryonic microinjection).

Technical Skills & Expected Level of Proficiency
  • Assay Development and Validation - Developing
  • Data Management and Analysis - Developing
  • Experimental Design and Execution - Developing
  • Operations Management - Developing
  • Protocol Development and Optimization - Developing
  • Scientific Writing - Developing
  • Stakeholder Engagement - Developing

The core technical skills listed are most essential; additional technical skills may be required based on specific division or department needs.
Classified Title: Research Specialist II
Job Posting Title (Working Title): Core Facility Research Specialist II (Molecular Microbiology & Immunology)
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MB
Starting Salary Range: $41,300 - $72,300 Annually (Commensurate w/exp.)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Monday to Friday: 8:30am - 5:00pm
FLSA Status: Exempt
Location: School of Public Health
Department name: W Harry Feinstone Dpt Molec Mblgy Imlgy
Personnel area: School of Public Health
Johns Hopkins University logo

About Johns Hopkins University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Gilman believed that teaching and research go hand in hand—that success in one depends on success in the other—and that a modern university must do both well. He also believed that sharing our knowledge and discoveries would help make the world a better place. In 145 years, we haven’t strayed from that vision. This is still a destination for excellent, ambitious scholars and a world leader in teaching and research. Distinguished professors mentor students in the arts and music, humanities, social and natural sciences, engineering, international studies, education, business, and the health professions. Those same faculty members, along with their colleagues at the university’s Applied Physics Laboratory, have made us the nation’s leader in federal research and development funding every year since 1979. That’s a fitting distinction for America’s first research university, a place that has revolutionized higher education in the U.S. and continues to bring knowledge and discoveries to the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Baltimore, MD, US

Year founded

1876

View All Johns Hopkins University Jobs

What Johns Hopkins University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply