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Food Microbiologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maintain current knowledge in food microbiology and laboratory technologies through continuing ... education and peer engagement. Education * Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science ...

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North ... Apply aseptic/microbiological techniques in daily workload * Apply independent judgement in the ...

Maintain current knowledge in food microbiology and laboratory technologies through continuing ... education and peer engagement. Education * Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science ...

Microbiologist II

Orangeburg, NY · On-site

$60K - $68K/yr

Understand Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), Food and Drug Administration (FDA) * Traditional microbiology techniques (i.e. gram staining, streak plating, culture maintenance and aseptic ...

Understand Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), Food and Drug Administration (FDA) * Traditional microbiology techniques (i.e. gram staining, streak plating, culture maintenance and aseptic ...

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North ... Apply aseptic/microbiological techniques in daily workload * Apply independent judgement in the ...

Microbiologist

Manhattan, KS · On-site

$50K/yr

S.) for the purpose of protecting American agriculture and domestic food sources from their ... Degree: microbiology; or biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included at least 20 ...

Knowledge of food safety risks and audits. * Expertise in microbiology principles and environmental monitoring. Additional Skills & Qualifications * GMP experience is a plus. * Strong attention to ...

Senior Microbiologist

Chesterfield, MO · On-site

$71K - $95K/yr

The Senior Microbiologist will ensure food safety and microbiology alignment at our production and co-manufacturing facilities across Bunge by providing technical expertise for microbiological ...

Senior Microbiologist

Chesterfield, MO · On-site

$71K - $95K/yr

The Senior Microbiologist will ensure food safety and microbiology alignment at our production and co-manufacturing facilities across Bunge by providing technical expertise for microbiological ...

Microbiologist I

Crete, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Microbiologist I Crete Analytical Laboratory Permanent MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout ...

Microbiologist I Crete Analytical Laboratory Regular (US Only) MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable.

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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 Jul 16, 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 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 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 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.

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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,647 per year, or $34 per hour.

$54K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Driven by integrity and united by the people-and-pet bond, we find strong purpose in the work we do and an even greater joy in those we get to work alongside. Together, we harness the expertise of our long-standing tradition of excellence to embrace possibility and continuously push to do what's never been done before in pet care. Discover your purpose and fuel your passions when you bring your love of pets to a team that prides itself on the power of togetherness We are Proudly Connected. Purely Driven.Position SummaryQuality Assurance and Nestl Purina Analytical Laboratories (NPAL) department iscomprisedof talented individuals whopossessa genuine love for pets and their families. We thrive on being at the forefront of research, contributing to the innovation and advancements in pet nutrition and quality that sets Nestl Purina apart.Ensuring the delivery of safe ingredients andresponsible sourcingpractices to our factories and beyond, we are invigorated by the extensive research and development that goes into our products.Bring your impact to the table and together we will continue to work towards being one of the most trusted companies in pet care.As a Microbiologist, you?ll perform routine and advanced microbiological testing to support the analysis of food products, ingredients, environmental samples, and related matrices. Come prepared to generate accurate and timely analytical data, interpret results, and ensure compliance with internal and external quality standards.This position operates with a high level of independence and may support method development, troubleshooting, and training of junior staff while contributing to overall laboratory efficiency and quality.Perform microbiological analyses including enumeration and detection of indicator organisms, pathogens, and other microbesPrepare, process, and analyze samples using approved techniques and aseptic practicesInterpret, verify, and approve analytical data for accuracy and complianceOperate and maintain laboratory equipment (e.g., balances, autoclaves, incubators, pH meters)Ensure all work is completed in accordance with NPAL standard operating procedures and safety requirementsEnsure compliance with ISO 17025, GLPs, and internal quality systemsMaintain accurate and detailed documentation of all analytical activitiesIdentify, document, and escalate non-conformances and questionable resultsRequirementsBachelor?s degree in Microbiology or related life science discipline3+ years of microbiology laboratory experience in food safety or commercial labOtherAbility to lift up to 50 lbsVisual acuity, color vision, and depth perception requiredScheduled shift:Sunday Thursday OR Tuesday Saturday, 7:00 AM 3:30 PMFlexibility for overtime, weekends, and holidays as neededFast-paced laboratory environment with exposure to food matrices and allergensAbility to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasksManual dexterity for laboratory work and equipment operationDon?t meet all the qualifications listed under other ? These are preferred, but not required. When you apply for a role with Nestl Purina, we ensure that individual confidentiality is held to the highest regard. We are intentional about creating an inclusive workplace for everyone. We consider our associates our most valuable assets. Please apply for full consideration.The approximate pay range for this position is $54,000 to $90,000. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Final compensation may vary based on factors including, but not limited to knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as geographic location.Nestle offers performance-based incentives and a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k with company match, healthcare coverage, and a broad range of other benefits. Incentives and/or benefit packages may vary depending on the position.It is our business imperative to remain a very inclusive workplace.To our veterans and separated service members, you're at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestl. The skills you've gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role. In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities. Nestl seeks such skilled and qualified individuals to share our mission where you?ll join a cohort of others who have chosen to call Nestl home.The Nestl Companies are equal employment opportunity employers. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you may require any special accommodations in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Contact us at accommodations nestle.com or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator: 1-800-321-6467.This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.Review our applicant privacy notice before applying at https://www.nestlejobs.com/privacy.Job Requisition:408373