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Entry Level Microbiologist Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Microbiologist information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$33.7K

$69K

$123K

How much do entry level microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level microbiologist in Decatur, GA is $68,975.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,300.00 and $81,000.00 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 Decatur, GA?

The most popular types of Microbiologist jobs in Decatur, GA are:

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Microbiologist jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Microbiologist jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Entry Level Microbiologist jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Entry Level Microbiologist job openings:

Entry Level Microbiologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Microbiologist job openings in Decatur, GA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 53% Physical, and 47% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,975 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Microbiology Technologist - Entry Level

Atlanta, GA • On-site

TCWGlobal
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about TCWGlobalexternal

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Title: Microbiology Technologist – Entry Level | $22–$25/hr.

Pay Rate: $22–$25/hr.

Hours: Full-Time, Monday–Friday

Location: Atlanta, GA – Onsite

Assignment: Contract, anticipated 6–8 months based on final pay rate and project needs

Start Date: ASAP

Please scroll to the bottom of this posting to review an important Candidate Safety & Fraud Awareness Disclaimer from TCWGlobal.

Summary:

Are you a recent Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or related science graduate looking for an opportunity to turn your classroom and college laboratory experience into real-world industry experience?

We are seeking an Entry-Level Microbiology Technologist to join a collaborative laboratory team supporting an exciting microbiology project. This is a highly hands-on opportunity where you’ll gain practical experience working with bacterial cultures, microbiological techniques, DNA extraction, sequencing preparation, and molecular biology processes.

No professional laboratory experience is required. Recent graduates are strongly encouraged to apply, and hands-on laboratory experience gained through college coursework is absolutely considered. The team is prepared to train the right person on its specific laboratory procedures and techniques.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their scientific career who is curious, detail-oriented, comfortable working in a laboratory, and excited to build valuable hands-on microbiology experience.

What You’ll Do:

  • Prepare microbiological media and materials for laboratory experiments
  • Grow, maintain, and harvest bacterial cultures
  • Work with bacterial cultures using aseptic laboratory techniques
  • Revive archived cultures and prepare glycerol stocks
  • Centrifuge cultures and prepare bacterial pellets for downstream analysis
  • Extract genomic DNA and prepare samples for sequencing
  • Support 16S rRNA sequencing preparation
  • Assist with PCR and other molecular biology activities as needed
  • Perform small-scale microbial fermentation and monitor culture growth
  • Follow established laboratory SOPs and safety procedures
  • Accurately document laboratory activities, results, and sample information
  • Collaborate with experienced scientists and team members while learning new microbiology techniques

The project includes working with a substantial bacterial collection that needs to be cultured, processed, and prepared for sequencing, giving the selected candidate extensive hands-on laboratory exposure.

What You Bring:

  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, or a related field
  • Recent graduates are encouraged to apply
  • College-level laboratory coursework or practical laboratory experience
  • Basic understanding of biology and microbiology concepts
  • Interest in working with bacterial cultures and learning microbiology techniques
  • Ability to carefully follow laboratory procedures and SOPs
  • Strong attention to detail and accurate documentation skills
  • Good organization and time-management skills
  • Dependable, curious, and motivated to learn
  • Ability to work collaboratively within a small laboratory team

The hiring team confirmed that candidates do not need prior professional experience and that college laboratory coursework can provide sufficient initial experience for the position.

Bonus Points If You Have:

These skills are helpful, but not required—the team can provide training:

  • Previous exposure to microbiology
  • Aseptic technique
  • Experience working with bacterial cultures
  • Microbiological media preparation
  • DNA extraction
  • PCR
  • DNA sequencing or sequencing sample preparation
  • Molecular biology techniques
  • Small-scale fermentation
  • Undergraduate research, academic laboratory work, internships, or laboratory assistant experience

Some familiarity with aseptic conditions and working with bacteria would be particularly helpful, although the technical processes can be taught on the job.

Schedule & Work Environment:

This is a full-time, onsite laboratory position in Atlanta, GA, working Monday through Friday.

The team offers some flexibility with daily start times, with employees generally beginning around 8:00–9:00 AM. Evening and weekend work is not typically expected.

Because this is a laboratory-based position, appropriate PPE will be required. Lab coats, safety shoes, and protective eyewear are provided.

The team is looking to hire as soon as possible, and candidates should expect an onsite interview as part of the selection process.

Why This Opportunity?

This is an excellent opportunity to:

  • Turn your college laboratory experience into professional experience
  • Build hands-on microbiology and molecular biology skills
  • Gain exposure to bacterial culture, DNA extraction, PCR, and sequencing workflows
  • Learn directly from experienced scientists
  • Strengthen your resume for future microbiology, biotechnology, food science, research, or laboratory opportunities
  • Gain meaningful industry experience without needing years of prior professional experience


TCWGlobal is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on age, ethnicity, gender, nationality, religious belief, or sexual orientation.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Important Candidate Safety Notice

This position has been verified and officially approved by TCWGlobal.

Please be aware that fraudulent recruiters and fake job postings may attempt to impersonate legitimate companies online. For your protection:

  • Only trust communication from verified TCWGlobal representatives
  • Ensure a TCWGlobal recruiter is present on all official phone or video interviews
  • TCWGlobal will never request payment, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or sensitive banking information during the hiring process
  • Do not share sensitive personal information with unverified individuals or suspicious third parties

TCWGlobal is committed to protecting candidates and maintaining a safe, transparent, and professional hiring experience.