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

Lab Technician

Marietta, GA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Distinguishing Characteristics This is an entry-level class for the laboratory job family ... microbiological and physical testing and necessary calculations; reviews, analyzes and reports ...

Lab Technician

Marietta, GA · On-site

$21.21 - $27.04/hr

Distinguishing Characteristics This is an entry-level class for the laboratory job family ... microbiological and physical testing and necessary calculations; reviews, analyzes and reports ...

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 Jul 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Microbiologist, and why are they important?

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.

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 entry level microbiologists?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Microbiologist jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Microbiologist jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Microbiologist jobs in Decatur, GA? 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:
Medical Lab Scientist / Generalist

Medical Lab Scientist / Generalist

Emory Healthcare

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Emory Healthcare rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 210 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

158th of 880 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

Emory Medical Laboratory's mission is to transform health and healing by providing high quality, cost-effective, innovative laboratory services which enhance patient health. We're seeking an experienced Medical Lab Scientist I / Medical Technologist I to rotate through Core Lab, Microbiology, and Transfusion Service.

Shift: 2pm - 10:30pm, Monday - Friday, rotation every 5th weekend 

Be inspired. Be rewarded. Belong. At Emory Healthcare.

At Emory Healthcare we fuel your professional journey with better benefits, valuable resources, ongoing mentorship and leadership programs for all types of jobs, and a supportive environment that enables you to reach new heights in your career and be what you want to be.

We provide:

  • Sign-On & Relocation Bonus incentives (when applicable)
  • Comprehensive health benefits that start day one
  • Student Loan Repayment Assistance & Reimbursement Programs
  • Family-focused benefits
  • Wellness incentives
  • Ongoing mentorship and leadership programs
  • And more!

All levels of experience and education will be considered for this posting. 

Description

An entry-level medical lab scientist (MLS) performs basic functions of the position, may perform tests or operate basic lab equipment, and follows established protocols to ensure accurate sample analysis and result reporting. A MLS analyzes blood, tissue, and body fluids to detect, diagnose, and treat diseases. Operates complex, automated equipment to perform tests in fields like microbiology and chemistry, providing 70% of the objective data providers use for patient treatment decisions. Medical laboratory scientists are essential for diagnosing conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and infectious diseases.

Primary duties and responsibilities:

1. Testing Samples: Analyzing blood, urine, spinal fluid, and tissue for pathogens, chemical abnormalities, or disease markers. Perform Specimen Analysis, laboratory tests to identify abnormal cells, bacteria, or chemical imbalances in the body.

2. Operating Technology: Using sophisticated laboratory instruments, such as automated analyzers and microscopes.

3. Quality Control: Ensuring test accuracy by calibrating equipment and validating results. Run routine controls guarantee the validity and reliability of all medical testing.

4. Data Interpretation: Reviewing findings to ensure validity and communicating results to physicians. Analyze test results, ensure accuracy, and relay critical data to doctors.

5. Specialized Areas: Working in departments like blood banking (transfusion services), hematology, immunology, and molecular diagnostics.

6. Equipment Maintenance: Calibrate, troubleshoot, and operate sophisticated laboratory machinery.

Knowledge

1. Demonstrates an understanding of quality system and key performance monitoring.

2. Monitors accuracy and precision of laboratory testing.

3. Documents corrective actions taken for out-of-range test values.

4. Evaluates validity of acceptable specimens and test results; compares them to previous results and other laboratory data.

5. Refers abnormal or unexpected results to the appropriate individual(s).

6. May perform basic troubleshooting.

Complexity

1. Tasks are typically straightforward and routine, such as sample preparation, specimen handling, and performing routine tests.

2. Work is performed with structured guidance.

3. Maintains accurate and complete documentation of patient information, equipment, and test results to comply with regulations.

4. Identifies critical values, confirms and reports following standard operating procedures.

Autonomy

1. Works independently with minimal oversight but seeks assistance for complex or unusual cases.

2. Expected to make decisions within the scope of routine tasks and procedures.

Interaction:

1. Frequent interaction with lab supervisors and peers for guidance.

2. The level of communication with other healthcare professionals is limited to reporting results or clarifications.

Additional Duties as Assigned.

Travel: None

Work Type: Onsite 100% of time

Minimum Required Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or Medical Technology, or a chemical, physical, or biological science.
    • Other bachelor's degrees will be accepted if graduated from an accredited school and science and math coursework meets requirements of certifying agency.
    • Bachelor's degree may be waived for a medical technologist who was certified by the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP BOC) in the years prior to the bachelor's degree requirement by ASCP and/or a HEW/HHS technologist certified by Health and Human Services (formerly Health Education and Welfare).
  • Experience preferred but not required.
  • Certification: Must be obtained within 12 months of cumulative employment as a medical technologist.
  • Eligible for certification by one of the following accreditation agencies: MT (ASCP), MLS (ASCP), MT (American Medical Technologists, AMT), MT (HHS or HEW), MT (American Association of Bioanalysts, AAB), generalist or categorical if applicable.
  • Not eligible for promotion until certification is obtained.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: (Medium Max 25lbs): up to 25 lbs., 0-33% of the workday (occasionally) Lifting 25 lbs. max; Carrying of objects up to 25 lbs.; Occasional to frequent standing & walking, Occasional sitting, Close eye work (computers, typing, reading, writing), Physical demands may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Factors affecting environmental conditions may vary depending on the assigned work area and tasks. Environmental exposures include but are not limited to: Blood-borne pathogen exposure, Bio-hazardous waste chemicals/gases/fumes/vapors, Communicable diseases, Electrical shock, Floor Surfaces, Hot/Cold Temperatures, Indoor/Outdoor conditions, Latex, Lighting, Patient care/handling injuries, Radiation, Shift work, Travel may be required. Use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, and environmental conditions may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.

Additional Details

Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.

Emory Healthcare is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Please contact Emory Healthcare's Human Resources at careers@emoryhealthcare.org. Please note that one week's advance notice is preferred.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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