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Microbiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

MB 417 Student Teaching Assistant

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

... Microbiology at Oregon State University (OSU). This position is for undergraduate teaching assistants for MB 417: Immunology Laboratory. Position Duties * TA will be doing set-up and clean-up of lab ...

Lab Tech 2 - $22 to $25 per hour. Job Summary This position conducts analytical testing for ... Prepare reports for Quality Management Team, as directed. * Assist others with projects as assigned ...

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Microbiology Lab Assistant information

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$15

$23

$37

How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab assistant in Oregon is $23.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 job categories do people searching Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in OR?

For Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,261 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Research Assistant

Portland, OR • On-site

Oregon Health & Science University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

A position is open for a Research Assistant in the lab of Dr. Rauch in the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at OHSU. Research efforts in our labs are focused on understanding immune mechanisms of the intestinal epithelium in response to bacterial pathogens. We are looking to hire a researcher to assist in research, ordering, laboratory and animal colony management.

The candidate must possess an ability to work independently and problem-solve as needed with general supervision. Wet lab skills are required. Proficiency with animal work and/or tissue/organoid culture and/or microscopy and a training background in the fields of virology, microbiology, or immunology is required. 

Individuals hired into this role are permitted to apply and participate in OHSU PROPEL, a 1–2-year workforce training program aimed at broadening access to careers in biomedical research. OHSU PROPEL provides professional development to Research Assistants who are intent on earning their doctoral degree as part of their long-term career goals. Program activities include attendance at scientific seminars, journal clubs, short courses, meetings with research and career mentors, and completing milestones (e.g., submitting graduate program applications, designing a research poster, and delivering an oral presentation, etc.). Involvement in the program aims to enhance scientific identity formation and empower scholars to effectively navigate their career transitions.


  • Maintain animal colonies (set up breeders, wean litters, euthanize animals, genotype, update database, communicate with lab members about problems).
  • Lab management (ordering, dish washing, autoclaving, inventory).
  • Assistance in the labs research projects (perform tissue culture or mouse experiments).
  • If selected, participate in OHSU PROPEL activities (no more than 5 hours per week), including seminars, short courses, and mentor meetings, to enhance research experience and career development. Apply program insights to research tasks and career planning, meeting key milestones that demonstrate proactive engagement and support professional growth.
  • Other duties as assigned.

  • Bachelor's in relevant field; OR

  • Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience; OR 

  • 4 years of relevant experience; OR

  • Equivalent combination of training and experience.

Skills and Abilities

  • Wet lab, PCR.

  • Animal handling.

  • Confocal microscopy experience.

  • Proficiency with standard office software.


  • Bachelor’s Degree in the Biological Sciences with classes in Immunology and Microbiology.
  • 2 or more years of relevant experience in microbiology or immunology research.
  • Experience with animal colony management.

  • Proficiency with molecular biology techniques.

  • Organoid culture experience.

  • Tissue culture experience.

  • Previous contribution to scientific publication(s).


Work is generally 40 hours per week, but may be more or less from week to week. Work is primarily during normal working hours, but evening and weekend work is often necessary to take care of mice involved in time-sensitive experiments.

Additional safety training is required to work with cell lines in a BSL-2 environment. Working with laboratory animals is a requirement of this position.

Benefits 

  • Healthcare for full-time employees covered 100% and 88% for dependents.
  • $50K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee.
  • Two separate above market pension plans to choose from.
  • Paid time off - 208 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
  • Extended illness bank - 64 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
  • 9 paid holidays per year.
  • Substantial Tri-Met and C-Tran discounts.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Childcare service discounts.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Employee discounts to local and major businesses.

We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887