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Microbiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Danone

Lab Technician

Mount Crawford, VA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The lab technician will assist/train/coach employees within all levels of the organization in ... Perform analytical, chemical, microbiological, and allergenic analysis both routine and episodic

Danone

Lab Technician

Mount Crawford, VA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The lab technician will assist/train/coach employees within all levels of the organization in ... Perform analytical, chemical, microbiological, and allergenic analysis both routine and episodic

Danone

Lab Technician

Mount Crawford, VA

$18 - $24/hr

The lab technician will assist/train/coach employees within all levels of the organization in ... Perform analytical, chemical, microbiological, and allergenic analysis both routine and episodic

Old Dominion University

LAB & RESEARCH TECHNICIAN

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

... Assist in maintaining inventory of clerical and laboratory equipment, and coordinating with ... Microbiology, phlebotomy/serology, and other medical laboratory experience. Some experience working ...

Prestige Brands

Chemist I - 3rd Shift

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

Documentation review of laboratory work. * Assist with Validation Activities as required ... Dispose of organic lab waste. * Routine Water Testing * Microbiological testing as required.

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Microbiology Lab Assistant information

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How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab assistant in Virginia is $22.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $25.24 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.

More about Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiology Lab jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Microbiology Lab jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

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

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Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,192 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Senior Microbiologist - Virginia

Petersburg, VA • On-site

Novo Nordisk
Pharmaceutical Product Wholesalers • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Novo Nordiskexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Novo Nordisk rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

About the Department
For more than 100 years, Novo Nordisk has been tackling the unmet medical needs of people living with serious chronic diseases, such as diabetes & obesity. Being part of Novo Nordisk allows our employees to embark on the opportunity to help improve the quality of life for millions of people around the world.
Our new Petersburg, Virginia site marks a strategic move to advance our capabilities in Emerging Technologies (ET) within Chemical API development and production. The highly experienced site is designed to strengthen and accelerate our Small Molecule (SMOL) strategy while amplifying our operational capacity. This is to safeguard and support ET's SMOL projects in the coming years, aligning with our vision and strengthening our potential for growth and innovation.
What we offer you:
  • Leading pay and annual performance bonus for all positions
  • All employees enjoy generous paid time off including 14 paid holidays
  • Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance - effective day one
  • Guaranteed 8% 401K contribution plus individual company match option
  • Family Focused Benefits including 14 weeks paid parental & 6 weeks paid family medical leave
  • Free access to Novo Nordisk-marketed pharmaceutical products
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Life & Disability Insurance
  • Employee Referral Awards

At Novo Nordisk, you will find opportunities, resources, and mentorship to help grow and build your career. Are you ready to realize your potential? Join Team Novo Nordisk and help us make what matters.
The Position
Responsible for ensuring the sterility and quality of pharmaceutical products by performing microbiological tests on raw materials and, manufacturing environments and finished products throughout the production process, identifying potential microbial contamination and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards to guarantee patient safety.
Relationships
Reports to Manager.
Essential Functions
  • Perform or oversee routine and non-routine microbiological assays on raw materials, water and release samples to detect the presence of microorganisms
  • Sample and analyse air, surfaces and water within the manufacturing facility to monitor for microbial contamination
  • Author, review and approve test methods and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
  • Perform or oversee validations for new equipment and test methods
  • Author, review and approve protocols and reports
  • Author, review and approve testing requirements or specifications
  • Ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and regulatory requirements
  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of experiments, results and procedures in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems, ensuring data integrity
  • Perform peer review of laboratory documentation and lab data to ensure compliance with laboratory SOPs and test methods
  • Isolate and identify microorganisms using various techniques like culture-based methods, molecular biology and automated systems
  • Provide training and coaching on proper microbiological techniques
  • Assist peers with troubleshooting general laboratory instrumentation, analysis and methodologies
  • May serve as process area responsible for lab related systems, software, or processes
  • Support area process manager (APM) by providing technical expertise on relevant lab related topics
  • Participate in multidisciplinary project groups
  • Contribute and lead cLEAN process improvement activities
  • Support and lead investigations of laboratory samples and help determine appropriate corrective and preventive actions
  • Support and lead Deviations related to microbial analysis
  • Oversee and assign general laboratory duties including cleaning and maintenance of equipment, work areas and cleaning of the microbiology laboratory
  • Support management on setting key performance indicators (KPIs)
  • Follow all safety & environmental requirements in the performance of duties
  • Other duties as assigned

Physical Requirements
Moves equipment &/or supplies weighing up to 33 pounds within the facility using various body positions. Ability to do close precision work with their hands. Must be able to remain in a stationary position (sitting and standing) 50% of the time. May required corrected vision to 20/25 based on role. May require colour vision based on role. Occasionally ascends/descends a ladder. May be required to work at elevated heights. Occasionally works around odorous &/or hazardous materials. May be required to wear respiratory protection, which includes medical surveillance and verification of pulmonary fitness. May be required to fully gown for entrance into GMP areas.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in microbiology or science related field from an accredited university required and a minimum of six (6) years of experience performing routine and non-routine microbiological assays on raw materials, water, in-process samples, packaging materials and finished products or related experience required
  • In lieu of Bachelor's degree and six (6) years of experience, may consider an Associate's degree in microbiology or related field from an accredited college with minimum of eight (8) years of experience performing routine and non-routine microbiological assays on raw materials, water, in-process samples, packaging materials and finished products or related experience required
  • In lieu of Bachelor's degree and six (6) years of experience, may consider a High School Diploma/GED with a minimum of ten (10)) years of experience performing routine and non-routine microbiological assays on raw materials, water, in-process samples, packaging materials and finished products or related experience required
  • Strong understanding of microbiology principles, including microbial identification, culture techniques and sterilization methods required
  • Experience with GMP regulations and quality control procedures required
  • Proficiency in laboratory techniques such as aseptic technique, microbial enumeration and molecular biology methods required
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills required
  • Detail-oriented with strong documentation and record-keeping abilities required
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team required
  • Excellent communication skills to effectively report findings and collaborate with other departments required
  • Ability to set scientific direction and mobilize a project work and activities required
  • Good collaboration skills with and interaction with many departments required

We commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants.
At Novo Nordisk, we're not chasing quick fixes - we're creating lasting change for long-term health. For over 100 years, we've been driven by a single purpose: to defeat serious chronic diseases and help millions of people live healthier lives. This dedication fuels our constant curiosity and inspires us to push the boundaries of what's possible in healthcare. We embrace diverse perspectives, seek out bold ideas, and build partnerships rooted in shared purpose. Together, we're making healthcare more accessible, treating and defeating diseases, and pioneering solutions that create change spanning generations. When you join us, you become part of something bigger - a legacy of impact that reaches far beyond today.
Novo Nordisk is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by local, state or federal laws, rules or regulations.
If you are interested in applying to Novo Nordisk and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply, please call us at 1-855-411-5290. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

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