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Microbiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Microbiologist

Columbus, IN · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Accurately document results in lab notebooks and electronic systems * Assist with basic data ... Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, or related field * 1-2 years of lab experience ...

SPECIALIST PLANT HYGIENIST

Mooresville, IN · On-site

$33.65 - $36.06/hr

SUPPORT MICROBIOLOGY LAB * Work closely with the Microbiology Laboratory to share information ... * Assist in the creation, implementation, and administration of Microbiology based programs ...

New

Microbiologist, R&D

Columbus, IN · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

The position focuses on executing established protocols, maintaining lab operations, and ... Accurately document results in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems * Assist with basic data ...

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Microbiology Lab Assistant information

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$14

$21

$33

How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab assistant in Indiana is $21.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Microbiology Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of microbiological techniques, laboratory safety protocols, and at least an associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, aseptic techniques, and data management systems such as LIMS is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurate sample processing and teamwork. These competencies are vital for ensuring precise test results, maintaining lab safety, and supporting research or diagnostic objectives.

What does a Microbiology Lab Assistant do?

A Microbiology Lab Assistant supports microbiologists by preparing samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, and conducting basic laboratory tests. They help ensure experiments run smoothly by following strict protocols and keeping the lab organized and sterile. Their daily tasks may also include labeling specimens, recording data, and disposing of biohazardous materials properly. This role is essential for maintaining safety and accuracy in microbiological research and testing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Microbiology Lab Assistants and how can they be addressed?

Microbiology Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict sterile techniques to avoid contamination, accurately following protocols for sample preparation, and managing multiple tasks during busy periods. To address these, it’s important to develop strong organizational skills, pay close attention to detail, and communicate effectively with team members. Regularly reviewing standard operating procedures and participating in team meetings can also help ensure quality and efficiency in the lab environment.

What is the difference between Microbiology Lab Assistant vs Microbiology Technician?

AspectMicrobiology Lab AssistantMicrobiology Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationAssociate degree or relevant certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hospitals, research facilitiesLaboratories, research centers, healthcare settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sample preparation, cleaning, and basic tasksPerforming tests, analyzing samples, recording data
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare, research, and educational labsCommonly employed in clinical and industrial microbiology labs

While both roles support microbiology labs, Microbiology Lab Assistants typically handle basic tasks and support functions, whereas Microbiology Technicians perform more detailed testing and analysis. The roles often overlap in work environment and industry but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What Does a Microbiology Lab Assistant Do?

A microbiology lab assistant provides support for scientists and researchers in a microbiology lab where they study microbes, viruses, fungi, parasites, bacteria, and other microscopic organisms. In this career, you may work on sample collection, aid in the testing of cultures and samples, maintain a specimen record, and sterilize and clean equipment after testing. Some labs may also expect you to carry out other administrative duties. Your responsibilities as a microbiology lab assistant may also include recording data and maintaining records.

What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiology Lab jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Microbiology Lab jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Indiana? For Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in IN? For Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,335 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Technical Laboratory Specialist

Technical Laboratory Specialist

Indiana University Health

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 21 days ago


Indiana University Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 457 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

330th of 870 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Indiana University Health is Indiana's most comprehensive health system, with 16 hospitals and more than 34,000 team members serving Hoosiers across the state. We're looking for team members who are inspired by challenging and meaningful work for the good of every patient. People who are compassionate and serve with a purpose. People who aspire to excellence every day.

The laboratories of IU Health offer some of the most comprehensive laboratory services in Indiana! Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the laboratories perform more than 19 million tests a year. In addition to IU Health, laboratory testing services are provided to hospitals and physicians across the country.

Shift: Full-time, days

Location: IUHMG M-Pathology Lab (Indianapolis, IN)

The Microbiology Technical Specialist is responsible for providing microbiological oversight and quality control for all the clinical microbiology testing in the pathology laboratory. This role involves collaborating with medical director(s), lab staff and the Office of Compliance, Accreditation and Quality (OCAQ) teams to ensure aseptic techniques, microbiological control strategies, and regulatory compliance are maintained throughout the testing process. The Microbiology Technical Specialist plays a proactive role in improving microbiological hygiene through the department, QA/QC review, techs training and competencies, assessing contamination risks, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The successful candidate will have a strong background in clinical microbiology, QC / QA requirements, and knowledge of CLIA and CAP regulations.

  • Perform special quality assurance projects/functions as defined by the facility's CLIA Director(s), pathology laboratory management, or administration.
  • Collaborate with team leads and functional staff on technical validations.
  • Provide quality assurance in accordance with GLP and GDP standards, prepare and present QA reports to hospital management.
  • Make operational and training improvements.
  • Manage the technical process qualification program and schedule qualifications for lab personnel.
  • Collaborate with Supervisors and team leads to actively support the review and investigation process for complaints and incidents in the microbiology lab.
  • Develop and refine strategies and methodologies for microbiological testing and cleaning validations.
  • Establish quality control procedures, monitor remedial actions, and oversee the environmental monitoring program, personnel monitoring, trending, and analysis.
  • Maintain consistent quality assurance guidelines throughout sample handling, analytical, and data reduction processes.
  • Collaborate with Office of Compliance, Accreditation and Quality (OCAQ) teams to monitor and audit microbiology lab operations and processes, supporting the technical team needs.
  • Support clinical microbiologists in developing and maintaining a microbiological control strategy.
  • Identify deviations from the quality system or test procedures, initiate actions to prevent or minimize such departures, and make recommendations for improvements.
  • Ensure compliance with CLIA and CAP requirements.
  • Monitor contamination and initiate control measures to minimize risk.
  • Assist in investigations of non-conformances, corrective actions, out-of-specification investigations, and preventive action investigations. Monitor errors in reported results and document complaints, investigations, corrective actions, and resolutions.
  •  Review and approve QC/QA documents, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Work Instructions (WIs).
  • Assist in personnel documentation, training, SharePoint design, and procedure/document updates.
  • Author, and review SOPs, protocols, and reports related to microbiology processes, test methods, and equipment maintenance.
  • Maintain proficiency testing, comparison of test results, personnel competency assessment, complaint investigation, and quality records.
  • Creating and maintaining a digital regulatory crosswalk.
  • Identify key microbial technologies and oversee projects from initiation to completion.
  • Conduct periodic quality assurance training for staff, focusing on regulations, monitoring, inspections, SOPs, and other relevant areas.
  • Stay updated on laboratory developments by reviewing current literature, attending educational programs, and actively participating in professional organizations.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's in medical technology, chemical, physical or biological science is required.
  • Requires Qualification as CLIA Technical Consultant (TC) and Technical Supervisor (TS).
  • Minimum 4 years experience in high complexity laboratory testing is required.
  • Minimum 2 years experience in moderate complexity testing is required.
  • Requires appropriate certification by ASCP, AMT, NCA or equivalent certification.
  • Requires travel to locations within region on a regular basis. Travel to other regions, as needed.
  • Requires extensive knowledge about computers and use of various software programs.
  • Requires in-depth knowledge of standard operating procedures and testing techniques.
  • Requires ability to troubleshoot equipment.
  • Requires knowledge of state and federal regulations.

As Indiana's largest and most comprehensive healthcare system, and the number 1 ranked healthcare system in Indiana, we offer:

  • Increased pay scale for bedside nurses.
  • 401(K) retirement savings with employer match
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Student loan forgiveness - Government program that may allow qualifying participants to have the remainder of their student loan balance forgiven (after a set amount of time and specific qualifications have been met).
  • Employee Assistance Program - Counseling at no cost to you
  • Healthy Results - Participation in our team member wellness programs award points that contribute toward a biweekly financial incentive in your paycheck! The more you participate, the more you earn!
  • Indiana University Health has nearly 40,000 team members, including more than 3,600 physicians and 1,200 advanced practice providers, and we're home to the largest nursing network in Indiana with more than 9,000 nursing team members at over 800 sites of care.
  • IU Health is ranked No. 1 in Indiana by U.S. News & World Report, Riley Children's Health is ranked among the top children's hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report.
  • A unique partnership with the Indiana University School of Medicine - one of the nation's largest medical schools - gives patients access to groundbreaking research and innovative treatments, and it offers team members access to the latest science and the very best training - advancing healthcare for all.
  • With 15 hospitals, including seven with Magnet designation and eight with Pathways to Excellence designation, our team members are leading the way through excellence.
  • At Indiana University Health, your personal and professional growth is a top priority. You will have access to many diverse opportunities to learn and develop in meaningful ways that matter most to you, such as advanced clinical training, leadership development, promotion opportunities and cross training development.
  • Indiana University Health is invested in the lives of Hoosiers, leading the transformation of healthcare to make Indiana one of the nation's healthiest states.
Indiana University Health is Indiana's most comprehensive health system, with 15 hospitals and nearly 40,000 team members serving Hoosiers across the state. We're looking for team members who are inspired by challenging and meaningful work for the good of every patient. People who are compassionate and serve with a purpose. People who aspire to excellence every day.

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