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Microbiologist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

USDA APHIS | APHIS Careers

Microbiologist

Ames, IA

$62K/yr

The incumbent serves as a microbiologist with Veterinary Services (VS) Diagnostics & Biologics (D&B) National Veterinary Services Laboratories. The section furnishes diagnostic bacteriologic and ...

Cargill

Microbiology Lab Technician

Mason City, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

JOB PURPOSE AND IMPACT The Microbiology Laboratory Technician will assist with tests performed in the laboratory. In this role, you will ensure all testing is performed in accordance with standards ...

Cargill

Microbiology Lab Technician

Mason City, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

JOB PURPOSE AND IMPACT The Microbiology Laboratory Technician will assist with tests performed in the laboratory. In this role, you will ensure all testing is performed in accordance with standards ...

Cargill

Microbiology Lab Technician

Mason City, IA

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

JOB PURPOSE AND IMPACT The Microbiology Laboratory Technician will assist with tests performed in the laboratory. In this role, you will ensure all testing is performed in accordance with standards ...

Varsity Tutors

Microbiology Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Microbiology tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

Varsity Tutors

Microbiology Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Microbiology tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

Michael Foods Inc.

Micro Lab Technician

Norwalk, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

Maintain Microbiology laboratory quality control activities as outlined in the Microbiology Internal Control Plan (ICP). * Rapid microbiological analysis including Vidas technology. * Microbial ...

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All JobsMicrobiologist JobsMicrobiologist Jobs in Iowa

Microbiologist information

See Iowa salary details

$32.4K

$66.4K

$118.3K

How much do microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for microbiologist in Iowa is $66,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,400.00 and $78,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Microbiologist vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectMicrobiologistMedical Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in microbiology or related field; often a master's or Ph.D.Associate's degree in medical laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, hospitals, pharmaceutical companiesHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech firms, healthcareHealthcare facilities, diagnostic labs
Common Search & ComparisonMicrobiologist vs Medical Laboratory Technician

Microbiologists typically hold higher degrees and focus on research, analysis, and understanding microorganisms, often working in research labs or academia. Medical Laboratory Technicians perform diagnostic testing in clinical settings, supporting patient care. Both roles are essential in healthcare but differ in education, responsibilities, and work environment.

What Do Microbiologists Do?

Microbiologists research and study microorganisms. Some examples of these organisms are algae, bacteria, and parasites. Most microbiologists conduct their research in a lab. They use Petri dishes, microscopes, computers software, and other equipment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the research of microbiologist can lead to developments like improved sterilization procedures, or new medical drugs.

What type of work do microbiologists do?

Microbiologists study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites to understand their biology, behavior, and impact on health, environment, and industry. They perform laboratory experiments, analyze data, and develop methods for disease detection, prevention, and treatment, often working in labs, research facilities, or healthcare settings. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of laboratory techniques are essential for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by microbiologists when working in a laboratory setting?

Microbiologists often encounter challenges such as maintaining sterile environments to prevent contamination, accurately interpreting complex data, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. Balancing multiple experiments and meeting strict deadlines can also be demanding, especially when working with fast-growing microorganisms. Collaboration with colleagues in related fields, such as biochemists and lab technicians, is essential to overcome these challenges and ensure reliable research outcomes.

What jobs can I do with a microbiology degree?

A microbiology degree qualifies individuals for roles such as microbiologist, research scientist, quality control analyst, clinical laboratory technician, and food safety specialist. These jobs often require laboratory skills, knowledge of microbiological techniques, and sometimes certifications or advanced degrees for higher-level positions.

Is a degree in microbiology worth it?

A degree in microbiology is valuable for becoming a microbiologist, as it provides foundational knowledge in microbiological techniques, laboratory skills, and scientific research. It can lead to careers in healthcare, research, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science, often requiring additional certifications or advanced degrees for certain roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microbiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microbiologist, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree in microbiology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), PCR machines, and aseptic technique, as well as certifications like ASCP, are commonly required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills distinguish outstanding microbiologists. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate experimental results, maintaining laboratory safety, and effectively sharing findings with scientific and regulatory audiences.

What does a microbiologist do?

A microbiologist studies microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and algae to understand their structure, function, and impact on humans, animals, plants, and the environment. They often work in laboratories conducting experiments, analyzing samples, and developing new methods to detect or control harmful microbes. Microbiologists play a crucial role in fields like medicine, agriculture, food safety, and environmental science. Their work can lead to new treatments for diseases, improved food production, and better ways to protect public health.

What kind of jobs can a microbiologist do?

A microbiologist can work in research laboratories, healthcare settings, pharmaceutical companies, food safety, and environmental agencies. They conduct experiments, analyze microbial samples, develop new products, and ensure safety standards, often using tools like microscopes and culture techniques. Many roles require a bachelor's degree, with advanced positions often needing a master's or Ph.D.
More about Microbiologist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiologist jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Microbiologist jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Microbiologist jobs in Iowa? For Microbiologist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Microbiologist jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Microbiologist jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Microbiologist jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Microbiologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Microbiologist jobs in IA? For Microbiologist jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Microbiologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microbiologist job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,356 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Microbiologist

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Ames, IA

$62K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The incumbent serves as a microbiologist with Veterinary Services (VS) Diagnostics & Biologics (D&B) National Veterinary Services Laboratories. The section furnishes diagnostic bacteriologic and molecular support for the programs.Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including time-in-grade restrictions, specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
TIME-IN-GRADE: Current federal employees applying for a promotion opportunity must meet time-in-grade (TIG) requirement of 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the position being filled.
BASIC REQUIREMENT: Microbiologist (0403)
Degree: microbiology; or biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included at least 20 semester hours in microbiology and other subjects related to the study of microorganisms, and 20 semester hours in the physical and mathematical sciences combining course work in organic chemistry or biochemistry, physics, and college algebra, or their equivalent.
OR
Combination of education and experience: of post high school education with courses equivalent to a major in microbiology; or biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included courses as shown above, PLUS appropriate experience or additional course work. The quality of the combination must demonstrate that you possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the work of the position and is comparable to that normally acquired through the completion of a full four-year course of study with a major as described above.
FOR THE GS-09 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-07 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:
  • Taking positive actions to prevent laboratory errors, reporting such events immediately to the supervisor, and recording them in an appropriate electronic records system.
  • Planning, managing, and documenting test workflow and outcomes to ensure efficient use of time and accommodates urgent testing needs as required.
  • Reviewing and drafting protocols, standard operating procedures, forms, work instructions and taking initiative on development new guidelines.
  • Recognizing unusual problems, responses, and results that may arise from procedural error or equipment problems, and the ability to resolve such situations independently.
OR 2 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a master's degree or master's or equivalent graduate degree in Animal Science; Biology; Molecular Biology; Immunology; Virology..
Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for this grade level.
TRANSCRIPTS are required if:
  • This position requires specific coursework or a degree in a specific field to be basically qualified.
  • You are qualifying for the position based on education.
  • You are qualifying for this position based on a combination of experience and education.
  • This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university.
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE AT THE GS-09 GRADE LEVEL: Applicants may have combinations of successfully completed education and specialized experience to meet total qualification requirements. The total percentages must equal at least 100 percent to qualify for that grade level.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:Please see above for education qualification requirement information.Employment Type: OTHER

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