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Lead Microbiologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Colgate-Palmolive Company

Microbiologist

Hodges, SC · On-site

$52K - $80K/yr

Lead the development and implementation of the plant-wide Microbiological Control Program. * Support nonconformance resolution, identify corrective and preventative actions (CAPA), and provide ...

kindeva

QC Microbiologist II

Bridgeton, MO · On-site

Lead development, optimization, transfer, and validation of microbiological test methods including bioburden, endotoxin, sterility testing, microbial identification, and environmental monitoring ...

kindeva

QC Microbiologist II

Bridgeton, MO · On-site

Lead development, optimization, transfer, and validation of microbiological test methods including bioburden, endotoxin, sterility testing, microbial identification, and environmental monitoring ...

kindeva

QC Microbiologist II

Bridgeton, MO · On-site

Lead development, optimization, transfer, and validation of microbiological test methods including bioburden, endotoxin, sterility testing, microbial identification, and environmental monitoring ...

Ecolab

Principal Microbiologist

Naperville, IL · On-site

$85K - $128K/yr

... of microbiology and microbial control as a Principal Microbiologist within the Water Anchor ... Lead projects and program segments to meet technical and business objectives. * Develop new ...

Archer Daniels Midland

Senior Microbiologist, Process Micro Team - Decatur, IL - Relocation Assistance Available Research ... Lead R&D projects and initiatives originating from the Process Micro team, coordinating timelines ...

Ecolab

Principal Microbiologist

Naperville, IL · On-site

$85K - $128K/yr

... of microbiology and microbial control as a Principal Microbiologist within the Water Anchor ... Lead projects and program segments to meet technical and business objectives. * Develop new ...

Eagle

Microbiologist II - Non-Sterile

Tampa, FL

Lead the microbiology staff in the execution of special projects, as needed. * Train and mentor microbiology staff. Who you are * Bachelor's degree in microbiology or related science field, including ...

Eagle

Microbiologist II - Non-Sterile

Tampa, FL · On-site

Lead the microbiology staff in the execution of special projects, as needed. * Train and mentor microbiology staff. Who you are * Bachelor's degree in microbiology or related science field, including ...

Certified Group

Microbiologist 2

Melville, NY · On-site

... Lead or the Supervisor is not available. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS * Bachelor's degree in Life Science or related field, microbiology preferred * Two or more years of experience in a commercial food ...

ADM

Senior Microbiologist - Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL

$90K - $144K/yr

Senior Microbiologist, Process Micro Team - Decatur, IL - Relocation Assistance AvailableResearch ... Lead R&D projects and initiatives originating from the Process Micro team, coordinating timelines ...

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All JobsLead Microbiologist Jobs

Lead Microbiologist information

See salary details

$34.5K

$70.6K

$126K

How much do lead microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 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:
What job categories do people searching Lead Microbiologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Microbiologist jobs are:
Lead Microbiologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Microbiologist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 73% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,647 per year, or $34 per hour.
Microbiologist

Microbiologist

Colgate-Palmolive Company

Hodges, SC • On-site

$52K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Colgate-Palmolive rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

No Relocation Assistance Offered
Job Number #173031 - Hodges, South Carolina, United States
Who We Are
Colgate-Palmolive Company is a global consumer products company operating in over 200 countries specializing in Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care, Skin Care, and Pet Nutrition. Our products are trusted in more households than any other brand in the world, making us a household name!
Join Colgate-Palmolive, a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for people, their pets, and our planet. Guided by our core values-Caring, Inclusive, and Courageous-we foster a culture that inspires our people to achieve common goals. Together, let's build a brighter, healthier future for all.
Role Summary
  • Join our Quality team in Greenwood, SC, and play a critical role in ensuring product safety and excellence! As the Microbiologist, you will be responsible for product and raw materials testing, troubleshooting, and the full implementation of the facility's Micro Control Plan.
  • You'll drive continuous improvement initiatives and leverage your expertise to maintain our high quality and compliance standards in a 24/7 manufacturing environment. This is your opportunity to own laboratory quality control systems and influence key operational decisions.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform comprehensive microbiological testing of raw materials, water, work-in-process, and finished product for approval and release.
  • Own the maintenance of the Laboratory Quality Control Systems and ensure cGMP compliance, including performing failure investigations and properly documenting Out of Specification (OOS) results.
  • Lead the development and implementation of the plant-wide Microbiological Control Program.
  • Support nonconformance resolution, identify corrective and preventative actions (CAPA), and provide related Microbiology
  • Cleaning & Sanitization training to plant employees and assist with product, equipment, and C&S validations.
  • Maintain and utilize Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement, identify trends, and draw conclusions.

Required Qualifications:
  • B.S. in Microbiology or a related Science.
  • 2+ years of experience as a Microbiologist in a manufacturing laboratory work environment.
  • Experience with basic lab equipment (e.g., pH meters, balances, Celsis Luminometer) and common microbiology lab instrumentation (e.g., autoclaves, biohazard cabinets).
  • Demonstrated experience with general documentation practices and cGMP compliance, including notebooks and data entry forms with specific attention to detail.
  • Familiarity with quality systems such as failure investigations, Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA), calibration, and change control.
  • Ability and flexibility to work a rotating schedule to support a 24/7 plant facility operation.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Working knowledge and practical experience with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and techniques such as Gram staining, microscopy, isolation plating, media preparation, and microorganism identification methods.
  • Experience in an FDA-regulated environment or an industrial environment implementing cGMPs.
  • Demonstrate Results Orientation and the ability to prioritize duties to get effective results.
  • Experience with SAP & LIMS

Compensation and Benefits
Salary Range $52,800.00 - $80,000.00 USD
Pay is determined based on experience, qualifications, and location. Salaried employees may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, profit-sharing, and long-term incentives for Executive-level roles.
Benefits: Salaried employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, paid parental leave, disability coverage, and participation in the 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions subject to eligibility requirements. Additional benefits include a minimum of 15 vacation/PTO days (hourly employees receive a minimum of 120 hours) and 13 paid holidays (vacation days are prorated based on the employee's hire date within the calendar year). Paid sick leave is adjusted based on role and location in accordance with local laws. Detailed information regarding paid sick leave entitlements will be provided to employees upon hiring and may be subject to adjustments based on changes in legislation or company policies.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
Our journey begins with our people-developing strong talent with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to best serve our consumers around the world and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels a true sense of belonging. We are dedicated to ensuring that each individual can be their authentic self, is treated with respect, and is empowered by leadership to contribute meaningfully to our business.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Colgate is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, marital status, veteran status (United States positions), or any other characteristic protected by law.
Reasonable accommodation during the application process is available for persons with disabilities. Please complete this request form should you require accommodation.
For additional Colgate terms and conditions, please click here.
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About Colgate-Palmolive

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Colgate-Palmolive is a leading global consumer products company, tightly focused on Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care and Pet Nutrition. Colgate sells its products in over 200 countries and territories around the world under such internationally recognized brand names as Colgate, Palmolive, elmex, Tom's of Maine, Sorriso, Speed Stick, Lady Speed Stick, Softsoap, Irish Spring, Protex, Sanex, Elta MD, PCA Skin, Ajax, Axion, Fabuloso, Soupline and Suavitel, as well as Hill's Science Diet and Hill's Prescription Diet.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1806

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