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Microbiologist Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

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Microbiologist information

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How much do microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for microbiologist in Decatur, GA is $68,975.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,300.00 and $81,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Microbiologist jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Microbiologist jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Microbiologist jobs in Decatur, GA? For Microbiologist jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Microbiologist jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Microbiologist jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Microbiologist jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Microbiologist job openings:
Medical Lab Scientist / Microbiology / Weekends

Medical Lab Scientist / Microbiology / Weekends

Emory Healthcare

Decatur, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Emory Healthcare rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 207 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

159th of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
Emory Medical Laboratory's mission is to transform health and healing by providing high quality, cost-effective, innovative laboratory services which enhance patient health. We're seeking an experienced Medical Lab Scientist I / Medical Technologist I with a Microbiology background.
Shift: 7am - 7:30pm, Friday - Sunday
Experience Needed: Plate reading experience
Be inspired. Be rewarded. Belong. At Emory Healthcare.
At Emory Healthcare we fuel your professional journey with better benefits, valuable resources, ongoing mentorship and leadership programs for all types of jobs, and a supportive environment that enables you to reach new heights in your career and be what you want to be.
We provide:
  • Comprehensive health benefits that start day one
  • Student Loan Repayment Assistance & Reimbursement Programs
  • Family-focused benefits
  • Wellness incentives
  • Ongoing mentorship and leadership programs
  • And more!

All levels of experience and education will be considered for this posting.
Description
  • Performs various laboratory tests and procedures while adhering to standard operating procedures on patient specimens to assist in the diagnosis, study and treatment, or prevention of disease.
  • Upholds the values of the organization including providing and demonstrating exemplary customer service skills throughout the preanalytical, analytical and post analytical processes.
  • May supervise employees in a laboratory or laboratory section.
  • May perform tests including but not limited to standardized and semi-routine biological, chemical, hematological, immunological, immunohematological, microbiological, and serological tests in a research or clinical laboratory.
  • Performs preventive and advanced maintenance on laboratory instruments and calibrates equipment and instruments as required.
  • Operates laboratory equipment and troubleshoots equipment and instrument malfunctions.
  • Communicates with service representatives when necessary to correct malfunctions.
  • May serve as key operator for implementation of new equipment and procedures.
  • Prepares reagents as needed. Monitors and ensures adequate inventory supply.
  • May be responsible for ordering. Responsible for quality control.
  • Assists in gathering data to monitor quality improvement standards and in preparing reports.
  • Evaluates the validity of acceptable specimens and test results; compares them to previous results and other laboratory data.
  • Identifies critical values, confirms and reports following standard operating procedures.
  • In complex cases, evaluates all information and determines whether test results should be released, repeated, or referred to a pathologist.
  • Refers abnormal or unexpected results to the appropriate individual(s).
  • Maintains accurate and complete documentation of patient information, equipment, and test results to comply with regulations.
  • Documents corrective actions taken for out of range test values.
  • Performs required calculation and reports results by phone and/or computer.
  • Maintains clean, orderly and safe work area.
  • May serve on laboratory's safety committee; write and maintain safety and infection control policies and procedures, and ensure correct Safety Data Sheets are maintained.
  • Complies with hospital and laboratory safety and infection control policies and procedures to prevent exposure to infectious materials.
  • May monitor staff during safety compliance audits or drills.
  • Audits computer reports to ensure that scheduled tests have been completed.
  • Assists in gathering data to monitor quality improvement standards and in preparing reports.
  • Independently research and assist in development of new procedures; compile and evaluate data and perform statistical analyses.
  • May be responsible for section's data base files and/or assist in software testing.
  • May use server and network management skills to maintain consistent and uniform network and data communication.
  • Troubleshoots computer hardware related problems and oversees system backups.
  • May serve as access coordinator for the department including local applications.
  • Assists in writing, reviewing and revising departmental policies, procedures, and related forms in accordance with local, state, federal, and regulatory guidelines.
  • Assists with staff scheduling; provides input into staff evaluations.
  • Assists in assigning and prioritizing workload.
  • Educates staff and students by demonstrating procedures and assisting in orientation and continuing education activities.
  • May teach medical technology theory and techniques while providing guidance to lower level technologists; develop teaching plans and student assessment tools; prepare written examinations.
  • Coordinates instruction of employees and students for a laboratory section.
  • Attends educational in-services as appropriate.
  • Maintains certification as required.
  • Works with leader to formulate plan for professional development.
  • Participates in professional activities and organizations to maintain knowledge of current trends, practices, and developments.
  • May perform venipuncture or capillary puncture to obtain blood specimen.
  • Perform other related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or Medical Technology, or a chemical, physical or biological science.
  • Other bachelor's degree will be accepted if graduated from an accredited school and science and math coursework meet requirements of certifying agency. Bachelor's degree may be waived for a medical technologist who was ASCP certified in the years prior to the bachelor's degree requirement by ASCP and a HEW/HHS technologist certified by Health and Human Services.
  • Certified by one of the following accreditation agencies: MT (ASCP), MLS (ASCP), MT (AMT), MT (HHS or HEW), MT (AAB), generalist or categorical if applicable.
  • Two (2) years of experience required. Three (3) years preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (Medium): 20-50 lbs; 0-33% of the work day (occasionally); 11-25 lbs, 34-66% of the workday (frequently); 01-10 lbs, 67-100% of the workday (constantly); Lifting 50 lbs max; Carrying of objects up to 25 lbs; Occasional to frequent standing & walking, Occasional sitting, Close eye work (computers, typing, reading, writing), Physical demands may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Factors affecting environment conditions may vary depending on the assigned work area and tasks. Environmental exposures include, but are not limited to: Blood-borne pathogen exposure Bio-hazardous waste Chemicals/gases/fumes/vapors Communicable diseases Electrical shock, Floor Surfaces, Hot/Cold Temperatures, Indoor/Outdoor conditions, Latex, Lighting, Patient care/handling injuries, Radiation, Shift work, Travel may be required. Use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, environmental conditions may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.
Additional Details
Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.
Emory Healthcare is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Please contact Emory Healthcare's Human Resources at careers@emoryhealthcare.org. Please note that one week's advance notice is preferred.

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