2

Entry Level Microbiology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This is an entry level position for a Microbiology Lab Technician, which operates under the Quality Control Unit. In this role you will be supporting testing and release of raw materials, finished ...

Position will be for WKND SHIFT Level I QC Microbiology Technician (Entry Level) Primary Duties / Purpose Performs routine environmental monitoring, critical utilities sampling and microbiological ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Microbiology information

See salary details

$13

$21

$33

How much do entry level microbiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level microbiology in the United States is $21.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 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 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 laboratories, analyzing samples, and using tools like microscopes and culture techniques, often requiring attention to detail and knowledge of safety protocols.

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 microbiology associates in healthcare, pharmaceutical, food safety, or environmental testing labs. These roles typically involve performing experiments, analyzing samples, and using lab equipment, often requiring knowledge of aseptic techniques and basic microbiology tools.

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.

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.
More about Entry Level Microbiology jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Microbiology jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Microbiology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiology jobs? The most popular types of Microbiology jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Microbiology jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Microbiology jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Microbiology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,914 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Microbiology Technologist (Part-time Weekends)

Principle Health Systems

Houston, TX • On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Principle Health Systems rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Microbiology Technologist
We are seeking a detail-oriented Microbiology Technologist to perform moderate to high complexity testing in the Microbiology department. This role is responsible for processing microbiology specimens, performing culture workups, organism identification, susceptibility testing, result documentation, quality control, and following regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate has strong microbiology knowledge, attention to detail, and a commitment to accurate and timely patient results

  • Saturday and Sunday 9:00am-5:00pm (flexible start and end times if needed)
  • Part-time, permanent role
  • $26.00-$30.00/hour + $2/hour weekend shift differential
  • Assists with routine microbiology testing, including: Urine cultures, Wound cultures, Blood cultures, Rapid Influenza testing, Group A Streptococcus (Strep A) testing, Occult Blood
  • Experience working in a clinical microbiology laboratory is preferred. MLT, MLS Certification or related field is preferred. Entry-level candidates with microbiology experience are welcome to apply.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Microbiology Testing and Specimen Processing
    • Perform microbiology testing according to laboratory SOPs and regulatory requirements.
    • Review specimens for proper labeling, acceptability, and testing suitability.
    • Prepare, plate, incubate, and process microbiology specimens.
    • Perform culture reading, organism identification, and susceptibility testing as assigned.
    • Recognize normal flora, potential pathogens, mixed cultures, and results requiring additional review
  • Results and Documentation
    • Review, verify, and document test results accurately in the laboratory information system.
    • Identify and escalate abnormal, unusual, or questionable results according to laboratory procedure.
    • Maintain patient confidentiality and follow HIPAA requirements at all times.
  • Quality Control and Compliance
    • Perform and document quality control, instrument maintenance, and troubleshooting for assigned procedures.
    • Support proficiency testing, competency, quality assurance, and corrective action activities as assigned.
    • Identify and escalate specimen issues, quality failures, instrument problems, or testing concerns.
  • Safety and Laboratory Operations
    • Follow laboratory safety, infection control, PPE, biohazard, and chemical handling requirements.
    • Assist with inventory, reagents, supplies, and equipment readiness.
    • Perform other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
  • Bachelor's or Associate's Degree in Laboratory Science, Clinical Laboratory Science, Microbiology, Biology, or a related science field required.
  • Must meet applicable CLIA requirements for high complexity testing personnel.
  • Previous clinical laboratory or microbiology experience preferred.
  • Experience with culture workup, organism identification, and susceptibility testing preferred.
  • ASCP certification as MLS, MT, or Microbiology specialist preferred, if applicable.
  • Strong understanding of microbiology testing principles.
  • Ability to recognize and escalate abnormal, unusual, or questionable results.
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety, infection control, and PPE requirements.
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
  • Ability to use laboratory instruments, microscope, computer, and other laboratory equipment.
  • Ability to lift and carry laboratory supplies up to 20 pounds as needed.
  • Exposure to biological specimens, infectious materials, chemicals, and laboratory equipment

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact hradmin@principlehs.com.
Saturday and Sunday; 9:00am-5:00pm

What Principle Health Systems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom