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Entry Level Microbiology Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Quality Control Lab Technician

Hamilton, OH

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Other qualifying degrees may include Biology, Microbiology, or Environmental Science, provided there is meaningful chemistry laboratory experience from school. * Entry-level candidates may qualify if ...

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Entry Level Microbiology information

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$13

$20

$31

How much do entry level microbiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level microbiology in Ohio is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level microbiologist?

Entry level microbiologists are professionals who have recently completed their academic training (such as a bachelor's degree in microbiology or a related field) and are beginning their careers in the field. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced microbiologists and assist with laboratory tests, sample collection, data analysis, and reporting. Entry level microbiologists may work in various settings, including research labs, healthcare facilities, pharmaceutical companies, or food and environmental testing laboratories. Their work helps support scientific discoveries, quality control, and public health initiatives.

What skills and qualifications are 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 skills, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, aseptic techniques, and data analysis software such as LIMS is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring accurate experimental results, maintaining lab safety, and collaborating successfully within research or quality control teams.

What are typical challenges faced by entry level microbiologists in their first year on the job?

Entry-level microbiologists often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict laboratory protocols, mastering new laboratory equipment, and accurately documenting experimental results. It's common to balance multiple tasks, such as preparing samples and running assays, while also learning to interpret data in the context of larger research or quality control goals. Collaborating effectively with senior scientists and other lab personnel is also key, as teamwork and clear communication help ensure experiments run smoothly and safely.

What is the difference between Entry Level Microbiology vs Entry Level Biotechnology?

AspectEntry Level MicrobiologyEntry Level Biotechnology
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Microbiology, Biology, or related fieldBachelor's in Biotechnology, Biology, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, healthcare settingsLaboratories, research centers, pharmaceutical companies
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, research institutions, government agenciesBiotech firms, pharmaceutical companies, research organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Microbiology and Entry Level Biotechnology share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often overlapping in laboratory settings within healthcare and research industries. While microbiology focuses on microorganisms, biotechnology encompasses broader applications like genetic engineering. Both roles are essential entry points in scientific careers, with similar certifications and employer types, making them common comparison options for job seekers.

How to start a career in entry level microbiology?

To start a career in entry-level microbiology, 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 can improve job prospects. Certifications such as OSHA training or laboratory safety courses may also be beneficial.

What can I work as if I study microbiology?

With a background in microbiology, you can work as a microbiologist, laboratory technician, research assistant, or quality control analyst. These roles typically involve working in labs, analyzing samples, and using tools like microscopes and culture techniques, often requiring attention to safety protocols and sometimes certifications.

What kind of jobs can you get with an entry level microbiology degree?

Entry level microbiology graduates can work as laboratory technicians, research assistants, quality control analysts, or clinical laboratory technologists. These roles typically involve performing experiments, analyzing samples, and using lab equipment, often requiring knowledge of microbiological techniques and safety protocols.

What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiology jobs in Ohio?

The most popular types of Microbiology jobs in Ohio are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Microbiology jobs in Ohio?

For Entry Level Microbiology jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Microbiology jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Microbiology jobs in Ohio are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Entry Level Microbiology jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Entry Level Microbiology job openings:

Entry Level Microbiology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Microbiology job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,749 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Scientist I - Microbiology

Quest Diagnostics

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

$33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

96th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description


Medical Laboratory Scientist I - Cincinnati, OH, Monday to Friday, 9:00 PM to 5:30 AM, with rotational weekends
Department: Microbiology
15% Night Shift Differential
This team is growing! Additional shifts and departments are open
$10,000 Sign on Bonus!
Are you intrigued by the science of the human body? Curious about state-of-the-art laboratory instrumentation? Looking to join a Fortune 500 company leading the world in providing diagnostic information services? Quest Diagnostics is now recruiting for technologist positions ranging from entry level to experienced, with a wide range of benefits and training!
Pay range: $33.00+ per hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

Responsibilities
Job Responsibilities:
  • Follow the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting and maintaining records of patient test result.
  • Maintain records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient specimens.
  • Analyze specimens using approved testing procedures.
  • Review and release test results.
  • Follow CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA, and safety guidelines as described in their respective guidelines.
  • Follow the laboratory's established policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established acceptable levels of performance.
  • Identify problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results, correct the problems encountered or immediately notify the senior technologist or supervisor.

Qualifications
Education:
BS in Medical Technology preferred; or BS/BA in Chemistry or Biology, or Associates degree in a Laboratory Science or Medical Technology, or Previously qualified as a Technologist under 42 CFR 493
Work Experience:
1 year Clinical experience (high complexity testing) preferred.
MLS, Medical Laboratory Scientist, Medical Lab Scientist, Med Tech, Medical Technologist, CLS, Clinical Lab Scientist
About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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