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Food Microbiologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Seeking a Scientist (Food Microbiologist) to join a company in Richmond, VA. About the Role We are seeking an experiencedMicrobiologistto support apublic health laboratoryfocused onfood safety ...

Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their ... The Senior Microbiologist ensures microbiological safety and product quality in alignment with ...

The Food Microbiologist will work on an individual task rotation as well as be part of the larger team on a daily basis. This includes training and assisting new team members as they learn the ...

Microbiological Lab Tech

Siloam Springs, AR · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

The Food Microbiologist will work on an individual task rotation as well as be part of the larger team on a daily basis. This includes training and assisting new team members as they learn the ...

By constantly rethinking culinary solutions, we make food matter for people and the planet . If you're ready for a new adventure in a dynamic, expanding, passionate, international company, join us

By constantly rethinking culinary solutions, we make food matter for people and the planet . If you're ready for a new adventure in a dynamic, expanding, passionate, international company, join us

Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety and certification agency regulations (e.g., FDA, State, GFSI, SQF, Kosher, NGP, Organic). * Assist with the execution of HACCP and prerequisite ...

Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety and certification agency regulations (e.g., FDA, State, GFSI, SQF, Kosher, NGP, Organic). * Assist with the execution of HACCP and prerequisite ...

Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety and certification agency regulations (e.g., FDA, State, GFSI, SQF, Kosher, NGP, Organic). * Assist with the execution of HACCP and prerequisite ...

Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety and certification agency regulations (e.g., FDA, State, GFSI, SQF, Kosher, NGP, Organic). * Assist with the execution of HACCP and prerequisite ...

D. in Microbiology, Food Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or related field required. • 7-12+ years of experience in dairy or industrial microbiology required. • Experience with fermentation ...

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Food Microbiologist information

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$34.5K

$70.6K

$126K

How much do food microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for food microbiologist in the United States is $70,647.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Microbiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Microbiologist, you need a solid background in microbiology, food science, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), aseptic techniques, and certifications such as HACCP or ISO 22000 are commonly required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills are crucial for ensuring food safety, regulatory compliance, and the effective identification and control of microbial hazards in food products.

What are some common challenges faced by food microbiologists in ensuring food safety?

Food microbiologists often face the challenge of detecting and controlling a wide variety of microbial contaminants in different food matrices, each with unique properties. Rapidly evolving pathogens, antibiotic resistance, and the need to comply with strict regulatory standards add complexity to their work. Additionally, they must coordinate closely with quality assurance teams, production staff, and regulatory agencies to implement effective testing and corrective actions, often under tight deadlines. Staying updated with the latest analytical technologies and emerging foodborne risks is also essential for success in this field.

What are Food Microbiologists?

Food Microbiologists are scientists who study microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, molds, and yeasts, that affect the safety, quality, and shelf life of food products. They work to detect and control foodborne pathogens, develop new preservation methods, and ensure that food processing standards are met to protect public health. Food Microbiologists often work in laboratories, the food industry, or regulatory agencies, conducting research, testing food samples, and developing policies to prevent foodborne illnesses.

What is the difference between Food Microbiologist vs Food Safety Specialist?

AspectFood MicrobiologistFood Safety Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology, Food Science, or related field; certifications like ASM or CFSPBachelor's in Food Science, Public Health, or related; certifications like ServSafe or HACCP
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, food production plantsInspection sites, manufacturing facilities, regulatory agencies
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing companies, research institutions, government agenciesFood companies, regulatory bodies, consulting firms

While both roles focus on food safety, a Food Microbiologist primarily conducts laboratory research and testing to identify microbial hazards, whereas a Food Safety Specialist oversees compliance and implements safety protocols in food production environments. Both careers are essential for ensuring food quality and safety but differ in daily tasks and focus areas.

More about Food Microbiologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Food Microbiologist jobs? Cities with the most Food Microbiologist job openings:
What states have the most Food Microbiologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Microbiologist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Food Microbiologist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $70,647 per year, or $34 per hour.
Food Microbiologist

Food Microbiologist

Apex Systems

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Seeking a Scientist (Food Microbiologist) to join a company in Richmond, VA.
About the Role
We are seeking an experiencedMicrobiologistto support apublic health laboratoryfocused onfood safety, environmental testing, and outbreak response.
This role plays a critical part in protecting public health by identifying microorganisms in food and environmental samples and supporting surveillance and emergency response initiatives.
This is ahandson laboratory positionideal for microbiologists who have experience outside of academia and are comfortable working in a regulated, highimpact lab environment.
Key Responsibilities

  • Perform microbiological testing onfood and environmental samples
  • Process and analyze samples in accordance withchainofcustodyand regulatory requirements
  • Identify microorganisms related to food safety, surveillance, and outbreak investigations
  • Support routine testing as well as highpriority public health response work
  • Document results accurately and follow all laboratory safety and compliance standards
  • Collaborate with a team of scientists in a fastpaced public health lab setting

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degreein Microbiology, Medical Technology, Life Sciences, or a related discipline
  • 2-5+ years of handson laboratory experiencein:
    • Food microbiologyand/or
    • Environmental microbiology
  • Experience working withfood samples, environmental samples, or evidentiary samples
  • Strong understanding of laboratory best practices, documentation, and compliance
  • Ability to work onsite and adhere strictly to lab safety and professional standards

Technical Skills & Experience
  • Microbiology plating and organism identification
  • Experience withMALDI(primary system used)
  • PCRbased methods
  • Familiarity with regulated or public health laboratory environments
  • BSL3 experience a plus, but not required

Work Environment & Schedule
  • Onsite public health laboratory
  • Standard daytime schedule (approximately 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM)
  • Businesscasual dress, with strict lab safety policies
  • This role requires professionalism, reliability, and strong attention to detail

Why This Opportunity
  • Direct contribution topublic health and food safety
  • Longterm, stable assignment (12 months minimum)
  • Work in a missiondriven laboratory environment
  • Opportunity to build highly specialized experience in food and environmental microbiology

EEO Employer
Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law. If you have visited our website in search of information on employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation in using our website for a search or application, please contact our Employee Services Department at [email protected] or 844-463-6178
Everforth Apex is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Everforth Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Everforth Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click here for more details.