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Entry Level Microbiologist Jobs in Washington, DC

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 Washington, DC

Entry Level Microbiologist information

See Washington, DC salary details

$39.1K

$80K

$142.7K

How much do entry level microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level microbiologist in Washington, DC is $80,014.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,300.00 and $94,000.00 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 Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Microbiologist jobs in Washington, DC are:

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

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The top searched job categories for Entry Level Microbiologist jobs in Washington, DC are:

Entry Level Microbiologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Microbiologist job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,014 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Assistant Scientist, Biologist

mriglobal

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Our laboratory, located in Gaithersburg, Maryland, is seeking to hire an entry level scientist to work in the Integrated Health, Surveillance, and Diagnostics Sample Analysis group. This staff member will become an integral part of our team receiving vital experience with sample preparation, tracking, and analysis, while gaining a thorough understanding of relevant federal regulations, QA/Safety/SOPs, and instrumentation.

With supervision, this position will perform technically based tasks and laboratory experimentation related to microbiology, immunology, and molecular biology applications according to established protocols and SOPs. The individual will perform on processing and analysis of environmental samples for the presence of potential biological threat agents. Assists with sample in-processing, DNA preparation, immunoassay and PCR analysis, data entry into laboratory information management system and sample management system, and general laboratory housekeeping duties. The individual will be responsible for proficiency in the use of all equipment and procedures for the assigned area(s) with strict adherence to quality control and quality assurance assessments.

Basic function:

  • Conducts technical tasks and laboratory experimentation under general supervision using established or project-specific protocols and SOPs
  • Conducts experimental work on projects following established protocols and procedures

 

Minimum Qualifications:

  • B.S. or B.A. in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related discipline
  • Knowledge and/or experience in a laboratory environment, basic laboratory and analytical skills, and a solid scientific educational background with laboratory coursework.
  • PC skills and ability to learn new software and systems
  • Ability to effectively communicate and interact with technical staff at all levels in a team-based environment
  • Ability to work independently
  • Detail oriented
  • Ability to effectively communicate and interact with technical staff at all levels in a team-based environment
  • Adept time management skills, ability to work under pressure, multi-task, and be flexible
  • Proficient oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to obtain and maintain government security clearance.
  • Must be a US Citizen

This will be a 5 day/8-hour 2nd shift position (1pm-10pm) Monday - Friday, subject to change depending on client’s needs.

 

Applicants selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. While a clearance is not required at the time of hire, selected candidates may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. In order to meet the government security investigation requirements, U.S. citizenship is a prerequisite.

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