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Microbial Ecology Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Microbial Ecology information

See Oregon salary details

$36.5K

$74.7K

$133.2K

How much do microbial ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for microbial ecology 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 microbial ecology?

A Microbial Ecology job involves studying microorganisms in their natural environments, including their interactions with other organisms and ecosystems. Professionals in this field conduct research, analyze microbial communities, and explore their roles in processes like decomposition, nutrient cycling, and environmental remediation. They may work in academia, government agencies, or private industry, contributing to fields such as agriculture, healthcare, and environmental science.

What does a microbial ecologist do?

Professionals in Microbial Ecology often spend their days designing and conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing environmental samples, and managing large datasets using specialized software. They frequently collaborate with colleagues in related fields, such as environmental science, genetics, and bioinformatics, to interpret data and publish research findings. In addition to lab and fieldwork, daily tasks may include writing grant proposals, preparing reports, and presenting results at scientific meetings. This blend of hands-on research and collaborative work allows for a dynamic and engaging work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in microbial ecology?

To thrive in Microbial Ecology, a strong background in biology, environmental science, and microbiology—typically supported by a relevant advanced degree—is essential. Experience with molecular biology techniques, bioinformatics tools, and statistical software such as R or Python is highly valued in the field. Effective communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills enable professionals to work well within multidisciplinary teams and present complex findings clearly. These capabilities are crucial for advancing ecological research, publishing scientific results, and contributing to collaborative projects aimed at solving environmental challenges.

What are popular job titles related to Microbial Ecology jobs in Oregon?

For Microbial Ecology jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Microbial Ecology job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,694 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Biology Adjunct Faculty Pool - Academic Year 2026 - 2027

Portland, OR • On-site


Portland State University
Education • 1 - 5K employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

386th of 625 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position Announcement
Position Details
Proposed Start Date
09/16/2026
Working Title
Biology Adjunct Faculty Pool - Academic Year 2026 - 2027
Department
220300 - BIO Biology
Position Number
D97761
Representation
AP - AFT, Local 3571
Position Summary
Brief Description of PSU/School/Dept
A thriving campus in the heart of the city, Portland State University is Oregon's most affordable Public Research University and we offer tremendous opportunity to over 21,000 students from all backgrounds. Our mission to "Let Knowledge serve the City" reflects our dedication to finding innovative, sustainable solutions to local and global problems. Our location in the heart of one of America's most dynamic cities gives our students unmatched access to career connections and an internationally acclaimed culture scene.
The Biology Department offers undergraduate, masters, and PhD degrees in Biology and is home to over 600 undergraduate and over 40 graduate majors. The Department is housed within the Science Research and Teaching Center, home to the Center for Life in Extreme Environments and Museum of Natural History, and in the Robinson Life Science Building, shared with Oregon's premier medical school, Oregon Health and Science University. Our faculty are committed to excellence in both research and teaching, and sustain externally-funded research programs encompassing all levels of biological organization from molecules to ecosystems.
Position Summary
The Department of Biology at Portland State University (PSU) invites outstanding applicants for local Adjunct Instructors with expertise in core areas of Biological / Biomedical Sciences and teaching experience to teach the following Biology courses. This is a listing for recruitment purposes. However, the actual course offerings and / or number of sections of course offerings will be based on availability of funds and the needs of the department.
BI207 / BI208 / BI209 Biology For Allied Health & Associated Labs
BI221Z / BI222Z / BI223Z Principles of Biology
BI234 Elementary Microbiology
BI301 / BI302 / BI303 Human Anatomy & Physiology
BI330 Introduction to Plant Biology
BI357 General Ecology
BI380 Microbiology
BI388 Microbiology Techniques
BI412/BI512 Animal Behavior
BI423/BI523 Microbial Ecology
BI435/BI535 Plant Systematics
BI453/BI553 Biology of Aging
BI455/BI555 Histology
BI463/BI563 Neuroscience II: Sensory and Motor Systems
BI471 Plant Ecology
BI486/BI586 Pathogenic Bacteriology
BI487/587 Immunology and Serology
Minimum Qualifications
MS in Biology (or closely related field) with biology teaching experience in undergraduate / graduate courses.
Instructors must reside in Oregon or SW Washington.
Preferred Qualifications
PhD Degree in Biology(or closely related field) with biology teaching experience in undergraduate / graduate courses.
Key Cultural Competencies
• Creates an environment that acknowledges, encourages and celebrates differences.
• Functions and communicates effectively and respectfully within the context of varying beliefs, behaviors, orientations, identities and cultural backgrounds.
• Seeks opportunities to gain experience working and collaborating in diverse, multicultural, and inclusive settings with a willingness to change for continual improvement
• Adheres to all PSU's policies including the policies on Prohibited Discrimination & Harassment and the Professional Standards of Conduct.
Environmental Stewardship
Contributes to a culture of environmental stewardship, practices resource conservation, and actively works toward achieving long-term sustainability goals.
Required Professional Standards of Conduct
At Portland State University, all employees are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner which maintains a safe, respectful, and productive environment for faculty, students, administrators, and staff. It is the responsibility of every member of the Portland State University community to conduct themselves in accordance with our PSU Professional Standards of Conduct which are available at www.pdx.edu/hr/professional-standards-conduct.
Compensation
Adjunct faculty members are paid per credit hour per the AFT Collective Bargaining Agreement which can be found at https://www.pdx.edu/academic-affairs/academic-unions#psufa
Application Instructions
Additional Information
Please identify the course(s) that you are interested in and available to teach. Please also indicate any specific time and/or day availability restrictions you have. Priority will be given to the applicant who is most qualified and whose availability matches with the class offering time.
Does this position require the employee to drive a motor vehicle?
No
Background Check Required
Yes
Search Details
Posting Close Date
04/30/2027
Projected Close Date for Posting
Closes

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About Portland State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Portland State University (PSU) is a renowned institution located in Portland, Oregon. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, PSU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, preparing students for successful careers. The university's faculty members are experts in their fields, providing a high-quality education in a dynamic learning environment. PSU is deeply connected to its community, actively engaging in initiatives that address local and global challenges. With a focus on sustainability, social justice, and community outreach, PSU strives to make a positive impact in Portland and beyond. Situated in a vibrant city known for its livability and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, PSU offers students a unique and enriching educational experience that equips them to shape a better future.

Industry

Education

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1946

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