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Food Microbiologist Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Versova

Sr. Food Safety Specialist

Canby, OR · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Senior Food Safety Specialist Department: Compliance Location: Canby, OR Reports To: Divisional ... Monitor production, laboratory, and microbiological results to verify product specifications and ...

Varsity Tutors

Microbiology Tutor

Eugene, OR · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes clinical relevance and connects microbiology to infectious disease management, food safety, and biotechnology applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ...

Varsity Tutors

Microbiology Tutor

OR · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes clinical relevance and connects microbiology to infectious disease management, food safety, and biotechnology applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ...

Varsity Tutors

Microbiology Tutor

Portland, OR · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes clinical relevance and connects microbiology to infectious disease management, food safety, and biotechnology applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ...

SkyChefs

$17.56 - $26.67/hr

Food Quality Assurance Coordinator Job Location: Portland-USA-97218 Work Location Type: On-Site ... Perform environmental swabs and microbiological sampling, submittal to local laboratory for ...

SkyChefs

$82K - $103K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field. * PCQI and HACCP certifications required. * 5+ years of food safety and quality experience in a regulated food ...

Primo Brands

Quality Assurance Technician

Portland, OR · On-site

$27.50/hr

Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry, Microbiology, Food Science/Technology, or comparable Science field. * Minimum (2) years' experience in related role, prior exposure to manufacturing in the ...

Pacific Seafood

Minimum associate degree from an accredited college or university in food science, marine/fishery science, biology, microbiology, or other related discipline; or equivalent combination of education ...

Pacific Seafood

VCQ Manager

Newport, OR

$62K - $76K/yr

Minimum associate degree from an accredited college or university in food science, marine/fishery science, biology, microbiology, or other related discipline; or equivalent combination of education ...

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All JobsFood Microbiologist JobsFood Microbiologist Jobs in Oregon

Food Microbiologist information

See Oregon salary details

$36.5K

$74.7K

$133.2K

How much do food microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for food microbiologist in Oregon is $74,694.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,400.00 and $87,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food microbiologist?

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 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 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 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.

How long does it take to become a food microbiologist?

Becoming a food microbiologist typically requires a bachelor's degree in microbiology, food science, or a related field, which takes about four years. Many positions also prefer or require a master's degree or additional certifications, which can add 1-2 years of study or training.

Is food microbiology a good career?

Food microbiologists analyze microorganisms in food production to ensure safety and quality, often working in laboratories or manufacturing facilities. The field offers stable employment with opportunities for specialization, and requires knowledge of microbiology, laboratory skills, and sometimes certifications. It is a growing area with demand in food safety regulation and quality assurance sectors.

What are popular job titles related to Food Microbiologist jobs in Oregon?

For Food Microbiologist jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Microbiologist jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Microbiologist jobs in Oregon are:

Food Microbiologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Microbiologist job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,694 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Microbiologist - Food Processing Lab

Stahlbush Island Farms

Corvallis, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

The mission for this position is to manage Stahlbush Island Farm's microbiology program, which includes environmental monitoring, finished product testing, water systems testing, and outside lab communication and shipping.
Responsibilities
  • Perform microbiological testing on finished product samples using AOAC approved methods.
  • Outside lab management and release of results to customers.
  • Enumerate microorganisms routinely and keep records of these results.
  • Prepare dilution blanks and media for microbiological testing.
  • Manage the environmental monitoring program.
  • Send samples to third party laboratories for additional testing (pathogens, heavy metals, pesticides, Non-GMO, and any other testing based on customer request).
  • Review customer specifications to determine if microbiological testing requests can be met.
  • Monitor stock of microbiological-related supplies. Monitor laboratory equipment, including incubator and refrigerator temperatures daily.
  • Maintain microbiological test results and enter data into various files.
  • Positive release of product based on in-house and outside lab microbiological testing.
  • Create and update microbiology-related Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Submit requisitions for outside lab testing and supplies as needed.
  • Sample water systems on site, send for analysis, and maintain records.
  • This position has been identified as holding responsibility for food safety and quality of the company. This responsibility extends over all shifts.
  • During absence, the following position serves as coverage to this position: Microbiologist or Quality Assurance Manager.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science in Microbiology.
  • Candidates with microbiological background as it applies to the food industry preferred.
  • Flexible schedule; may require weekends and holidays.
  • Proficient in Microsoft office.
  • Willingness to work in various temperatures.
Schedule
  • Tuesday - Saturday, 8 hour scheduled days

The statements made in any and all of the position postings are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed, as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
Stahlbush Island Farms, Inc is an equal opportunity employer, focused on the employment and advancement of all applicants and colleagues for employment and promotion without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, gender, pregnancy/childbirth, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, citizenship, veteran or military status, marital or domestic partner status, or any other category protected by federal, state and/or local laws.
Stahlbush Island Farms is an equal opportunity employer, program auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

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