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Entry Level Microbiology Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Office Associate

Madison, WI · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... Microbiology and Chemistry testing. We play an integral role in food and product safety for ... Required Skills/Abilities: * Entry Level Position: We Are Happy to Train * Self-motivation ...

Gain valuable skills and experiences to be prepared for entry level opportunities * Mentorship and ... microbiological composition of foods and applies to assigned projects. * Studies food standards ...

New

Gain valuable skills and experiences to be prepared for entry level opportunities * Mentorship and ... microbiological composition of foods and applies to assigned projects. * Studies food standards ...

Entry Level Microbiology information

See Wisconsin salary details

$14

$21

$33

How much do entry level microbiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level microbiology in Wisconsin is $21.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $24.04 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 Wisconsin?

The most popular types of Microbiology jobs in Wisconsin are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Microbiology job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,325 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Associate Scientist II - Quality Control, Microbiology

Catalent Pharma Solutions

Madison, WI • On-site

$25.75 - $33.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 hours ago


Key responsibilities

  • Execute and document cGMP Quality Control testing with minimal supervision.

  • Operate basic and moderately complex cGMP Quality Control equipment and perform self-review of analytical data.

  • Perform routine and preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment and support laboratory housekeeping activities.


Catalent rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

62nd of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Associate Scientist II - Quality Control, Microbiology

Position Summary:

  • Work Schedule: Sunday - Tuesday 6am-6pm

  • 100% on-site

Working for Catalent Biologics is an opportunity to join an entrepreneurial team. Catalent Biologics is making significant investments in people and capabilities. This is a unique opening to join a small, fast-growing business, backed by a global public company. People joining our team will have the opportunity for career development as our business continues to grow and expand. Catalent-Madison employees are helping to improve future patient outcomes by working on products that are designed to treat COVID-19, cancer, various autoimmune, fibrotic and blood disorders, HIV, diabetes, heart, and lung diseases as well as Alzheimer's.

Catalent Pharma Solutions in Madison, WI is hiring an Associate Scientist II - Quality Control, Microbiology. This position requires a variety of skills necessary for biotech company operations. The position is an entry level laboratory role with the expectation that the candidate is able to be trained on technical procedures and once trained, execute them consistently and reliably. Additionally, this position may support Preventative Maintenance and basic Laboratory maintenance activities while maintaining a GMP quality system.

The Role:

  • Executes and properly documents cGMP Quality Control testing with minimal supervision.

  • Independently operates basic cGMP Quality Control equipment and moderately complex cGMP Quality Control equipment with supervision.

  • Performs self-review of analytical data for accuracy and consistency with SOP.

  • Enters data into Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) or laboratory reports.

  • Performs general lab housekeeping in adherence to 5S standards.

  • Initiates records in Trackwise.

  • Accurately completes routine and preventive maintenance on basic to moderately complex equipment.

  • Actively participates in team meetings and/or training sessions.

  • Other duties as assigned.

The Candidate:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry or related life sciences field with a minimum of 1 year of industry experience.

  • Associate Degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry or related life sciences field with a minimum of 4 years of industry experience.

  • High School Diploma or equivalent with a minimum of 6 years of industry experience.

  • Preferred:
    o Basic understanding of analytical chemistry and simple lab equipment.
    o Familiarity with clean room procedure, aseptic technique, and general lab equipment experience.
    o cGMP, Good Documentation Practices (GDP), or Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) knowledge.
    o Experience following standard operating procedures (SOP).

  • General laboratory equipment experience, including micropipettes.

Why you should join Catalent:

  • Defined career path and annual performance review and feedback process

  • Diverse, inclusive culture

  • Positive working environment focusing on continually improving processes to remain innovative

  • Potential for career growth on an expanding team within an organization dedicated to preserving and bettering lives

  • 152 hours of PTO + 8 paid holidays

  • Generous 401K match

  • Medical, dental and vision benefits effective day one of employment

  • Tuition Reimbursement- Let us help you finish your degree or start a new degree!

Catalent offers rewarding opportunities to further your career! Join the global drug development and delivery leader and help us bring over 7,000 life-saving and life-enhancing products to patients around the world. Catalent is an exciting and growing international company where employees work directly with pharma, biopharma and consumer health companies of all sizes to advance new medicines from early development to clinical trials and to the market. Catalent produces more than 70 billion doses per year, and each one will be used by someone who is counting on us. Join us in making a difference.

personal initiative. dynamic pace. meaningful work.

Visit Catalent Careers to explore career opportunities.

Catalent is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and veterans.

If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, you may submit your request by sending an email, and confirming your request for an accommodation and include the job number, title and location to DisabilityAccommodations@catalent.com. This option is reserved for individuals who require accommodation due to a disability. Information received will be processed by a U.S. Catalent employee and then routed to a local recruiter who will provide assistance to ensure appropriate consideration in the application or hiring process.

Notice to Agency and Search Firm Representatives: Catalent Pharma Solutions (Catalent) is not accepting unsolicited resumes from agencies and/or search firms for this job posting. Resumes submitted to any Catalent employee by a third party agency and/or search firm without a valid written & signed search agreement, will become the sole property of Catalent. No fee will be paid if a candidate is hired for this position as a result of an unsolicited agency or search firm referral. Thank you.

Important Security Notice to U.S. Job Seekers:

Catalent NEVER asks candidates to provide any type of payment, bank details, photocopies of identification, social security number or other highly sensitive personal information during the offer process, and we NEVER do so via email or social media. If you receive any such request, DO NOT respond- it is a fraudulent request. Please forward such requests to spam@catalent.com for us to investigate with local authorities.

California Job Seekers can find our California Job Applicant Notice HERE.


What Catalent employees say

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About Catalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Catalent is an exciting and growing international company where employees work directly with pharma, biopharma and consumer health companies of all sizes to advance new medicines from early development to clinical trials and to the market. Catalent produces more than 70 billion doses per year, and each one will be used by someone who is counting on us. Join us in making a difference.Catalent is committed to the health and safety of its employees, visitors and the customers and patients we serve.

Industry

Pharmaceutical product wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Somerset, NJ, US

Year founded

2007

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