1

Lead Microbiologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Quality Control Microbiologist

Everett, WA · On-site

$28.25 - $37/hr

The QC Lead Microbiologist will work closely with Quality Assurance, QC Radiochemistry, R&D, Operations, Engineering, Project Management and Radiation Safety. This position is ideal for professionals ...

Quality Control Microbiologist

Everett, WA

$28.25 - $37/hr

The QC Lead Microbiologist will work closely with Quality Assurance, QC Radiochemistry, R&D, Operations, Engineering, Project Management and Radiation Safety. This position is ideal for professionals ...

Microbiologist

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$35 - $39/hr

The Microbiologist will lead and oversee the microbiological analysis and environmental monitoring program. They will support regulatory compliance by partnering with internal and external ...

... lead microbiologist in the preparation of reports. 10. Operates and maintains laboratory equipment, ensures its proper operation; operates analytical and other instruments 11. Operating in accordance ...

Lead root cause investigations and troubleshooting for presumptive positive pathogen findings and recommend corrective actions. * Oversee trend analysis of microbiological data and drive risk based ...

... 6. Lead and support research and development and method development efforts. 7. Develop or assist in developing experimental designs and test plans. 8. Perform regular site microbiological ...

Microbiologist II

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$25 - $38/hr

Extensive experience in Microbiology and EM groups and can lead actively and / or participate in technical projects pertaining to microbiology related testing processes, including but not limited to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lead Microbiologist information

See salary details

$34.5K

$70.6K

$126K

How much do lead microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead 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 Lead Microbiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Microbiologist, you need a solid background in microbiology, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by an advanced degree in microbiology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), PCR, and other molecular biology tools, as well as relevant certifications like ASCP, is often required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams and collaborating across departments. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure accurate results, regulatory compliance, and efficient laboratory operations.

What is the difference between Lead Microbiologist vs Microbiology Supervisor?

AspectLead MicrobiologistMicrobiology Supervisor
CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Microbiology or related field, possibly certificationsBachelor's degree, relevant experience, certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, quality control, R&DLaboratory oversight, team management
Employer & IndustryPharmaceutical, biotech, food safetyLaboratories in similar industries, quality assurance
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, career pathsJob responsibilities, team leadership

The Lead Microbiologist typically focuses on research, testing, and ensuring microbiological safety, often leading projects. The Microbiology Supervisor manages laboratory staff, oversees daily operations, and ensures compliance. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications but differ mainly in scope—research versus team management.

What are Lead Microbiologists?

Lead Microbiologists are senior scientists who oversee laboratory teams conducting research, analysis, and experiments involving microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They are responsible for designing studies, ensuring laboratory safety and compliance, and interpreting complex data to support product development, quality control, or public health initiatives. Lead Microbiologists also mentor junior staff, manage laboratory resources, and collaborate with other departments or external organizations. Their expertise is crucial in fields like pharmaceuticals, food safety, environmental science, and healthcare.

How does a Lead Microbiologist typically collaborate with cross-functional teams in a laboratory setting?

As a Lead Microbiologist, you will frequently work with cross-functional teams, including quality assurance, production, and research & development staff. Your role involves communicating complex microbiological findings, guiding protocol development, and ensuring that all teams adhere to regulatory and safety standards. Effective collaboration is essential for troubleshooting issues, streamlining testing procedures, and implementing new methodologies. You'll also mentor junior microbiologists and coordinate with management to align laboratory goals with organizational objectives.
More about Lead Microbiologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Microbiologist jobs? Cities with the most Lead Microbiologist job openings:
What states have the most Lead Microbiologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Microbiologist jobs include:

Senior, Microbiologist

USPL NUTRITIONALS LLC

North Brunswick, NJ • On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description


Job Description

Date

01/2024

Location

1200 Airport Road, North Brunswick NJ

Title

Senior, Microbiologist

Department

Quality Control

Reports to

Manager, Quality Control Microbiology

FLSA (Exempt or Non-Exempt

Exempt

Role Overview

The Senior Microbiologist performs compendial, published / customer provided methods and rapid microbial methods (using Biolumix / Soleris systems) for enumeration testing of finished products and raw materials. Also, create & execute the validation and suitability protocols for developed methods as per USP & ISO guidelines so that methods can be used for routine analysis in microbiology lab.

The duties and responsibilities described for each level are not limited to those outlined and are not intended to be a comprehensive list of all activities, functions, or responsibilities required of the position. Management reserves the right to modify, assign, or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time based on business needs.

Areas of Responsibility

  • Under the supervision of Quality Control Microbiology Manager and Lead Microbiologist, carry out activities in support of developing new methods for enumeration of probiotic strains, methods suitability of dietary supplement products using rapid and conventional techniques.
  • Creation of method validation/verification protocol for new methods for enumeration and contaminants estimation.
  • Perform USP water sampling and testing using rapid micro technology & USP methodology.
  • Perform identification of microorganisms as per USP general chapters / AOAC published method.
  • Perform enumeration, non-lactic bacteria and microbial contaminants testing in the raw materials, finished products and stability samples, for routine samples.
  • Media preparation & Growth promotion testing to be performed for new method development / verification.
  • Maintain notebooks & lab records within GMP standards and as per USPL SOPs & guidelines. Accurately report results and provide detailed records of results and conclusions.
  • Assist in creating protocol for Soleris rapid micro system method suitability.
  • Assist other microbiologists, as necessary, for timely project completion and support other lab personnel as required.
  • Comply with Health, Safety and Environmental responsibilities for the position.
  • Train newly joined microbiologist to perform testing for enumerations of probiotics and to perform routine tests for TAC, YM, pathogens using rapid microbial techniques of Neogen Soleris system and USP conventional methods.
  • ATCC Culture identification and population verifications.
  • Performs transactions for sample entry and results recording.
  • Follow all the USPL SOPs to work in the microbiology lab, including gowning, safety, waste disposal of Biohazard materials, and general written guidelines.
  • Recognizes OOS or out of-trend and, under the direction of QC management, assists in lab investigations.
  • Documentation of generated microbial lab related data as per GDP and recovery of stored documents within stipulated time during GMP audits or requested by customer.
  • Complies with all regulatory/ in-house requirements (may include but not be limited to safety, housekeeping, laboratory chemical waste, cGMP, GLP, and documentation) when performing the assigned activity.
  • Must be able to work extended hours as needed and occasional weekends.
  • Other duties and responsibilities as assigned by QC management.

Other Responsibilities Including Safety:

  • Works in a safe and responsible manner to create an injury-free and incident-free workplace.
  • Complies with all job-related safety and other training requirements.
  • Keeps management informed of area activities and of any significant problems.

Requirements

Education & Qualification:

  • MS in Microbiology or microbiology related scientific disciplines.
  • 5+ years in microbiology laboratory techniques
  • Minimum of 5 years QC lab work experience with industry experience in dietary supplements, food, or OTC manufacturing.

Certifications, Licenses, Credentials:

  • N/A

Skills & Ability

  • Ability to maintain integrity and honesty at all times and to communicate with transparency.
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
  • Solid understanding of cGMP’s and GLP and is familiar with 21 CFR Part 11
  • Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel.
  • Good documentation practice and able to write simple, clear reports.
  • Meets commitments on time and practices time-management skills.
  • Seeks to identify continuous improvement needs.
  • Experience with rapid microbial testing procedures is an advantage.

Physical Requirements (lifting, etc.):

  • Ability to navigate office, lab, and/or plant floor working environments.
  • Uses hands to finger, handle, feel, or operate objects or controls, lifting to waist height and/or above shoulder height, frequent bending from the waist, or squatting, walking short distances and leaning over equipment as well as kneeling on the floor to clean under the equipment.
  • Must be able to wear all PPE including a lab coat, face mask, booties, gloves, safety glasses/goggles, and respirators.
  • On occasion may need to lift up to 20lbs.

Work Environment (Office, Warehouse, temperature extremes, etc.):

  • Work is regularly performed inside a laboratory environment where temperatures can be moderate, exposure to dust, odors, noise, and fumes. The noise level is usually moderate. Employees can be exposed daily to chemicals and cleaning agents.
  • May execute up to 20% of their work at the bench level either standing or sitting on a stool.
  • Work performed in a standard office environment is without unpleasant or hazardous conditions.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the job responsibilities, duties, skill, or working conditions. In addition, this document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.

USPL is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal law.

Benefits And Compensation: Our benefits are designed to help you move forward in your career, and in areas of your life outside of USPL. From health and wellness benefit options including: medical, dental, vision, short and long term disability, basic life insurance, supplemental life insurance, AD&D insurance. We also offer a matched 401(k) savings plan. Employees have the opportunity to receive compensation in the form of premium pay such as overtime, shift differential, holiday pay, sick time, etc. Newly hired employees receive up to 10 days of vacation the first year, which grows to 12 days starting the second year of employment.

Job Description Acknowledgement

I have read and understand the job requirements, responsibilities, and expectations set forth in the job description provided for my position. I attest that I can perform the essential job functions as outlined with or without any reasonable accommodation.