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Microbiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Adams, MN (NOW HIRING)

Microbiology Lab Assistant information

See Adams, MN salary details

$13

$20

$32

How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab assistant in Adams, MN is $21.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $23.89 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 cities near Adams, MN are hiring for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Adams, MN with the most Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings in Adams, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,670 per year, or $21 per hour.

R&D Lab Technician-Micro Lab- Austin, MN

Hormel Foods

Austin, MN • On-site

$20.25 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description


LAB TECHNICIAN - MICROBIOLOGY LAB - RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT (AUSTIN, MN)
About Hormel Foods -
Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minnesota, is a global branded food company with approximately $12 billion in annual revenue. Its brands include PLANTERS®, SKIPPY®, SPAM®, HORMEL® NATURAL CHOICE®, APPLEGATE®, WHOLLY®, HORMEL® BLACK LABEL®, COLUMBUS®, JENNIE-O® and more than 30 other beloved brands. The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of the best companies to work for by U.S. News & World Report, one of America's most responsible companies by Newsweek, recognized by TIME magazine as one of the World's Best Companies and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. For more information, visit hormelfoods.com.
This position reports to the Scientist, Microbiology Lab-R&D.
Relocation is not eligible for this role.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Works with an intermediate degree of supervision and sometimes direct supervision.
  • Performs assays in the general micro lab that include mostly non-pathogen organisms.
  • Conducts Quality Control procedures for laboratory as assigned.
  • Initiates and participates in Corrective Action Requests, Method Validation Projects, and Continuous Improvement Projects.
  • Maintains Quality Control and ISO records as assigned.
  • May assist with the administrative duties, such as, safety audits, obtaining COAs, and ordering supplies and chemicals.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Required
  • Successful completion of post-secondary education in a lab based, scientific discipline.
  • Demonstrated basic lab skills including aseptic technique, quantitative and qualitative analysis.
  • Strong math skills.
  • Good computer skills including Outlook, Excel, Word, LIMS or equivalents.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform independent or group work.
  • Good communication skills.
  • Must be capable of standing for extended periods of time, handle strong odors and may, on occasion, lift up to 50 lbs.

Preferred
  • 1-2 years of laboratory experience.
  • Knowledge of Laboratory Quality Systems and Root Cause Analyses skills.

At Hormel Foods, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. The base hiring pay range for this role is $20.25-$28.50, and your actual base pay within that range will depend upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, skill set, level of experience, and geographic market location.
Other components of Hormel Foods' total compensation package includes comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, discretionary annual merit increases, profit sharing, 401(k) with employer match, stock purchase plan, earned paid time off, FREE two-year community/technical college tuition for children of employees, and more.
Hormel Foods provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.

Hormel logo

About Hormel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minn., is a global branded food company with over $11 billion in annual revenues across 75 countries worldwide. Its brands include Planters®, SKIPPY®, SPAM®, Hormel® Natural Choice®, Applegate®, Justin's®, Columbus®, Wholly®, Hormel® Black Label® and more than 30 other beloved brands. The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named on the "Global 2000 World's Best Employers" list by Forbes magazine for three years, is one of Fortune magazine's most admired companies, has appeared on Corporate Responsibility Magazine's "The 100 Best Corporate Citizens" list for the 12 years, and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. The company lives by its purpose statement -- Inspired People. Inspired Food.™ -- to bring some of the world's most trusted and iconic brands to tables across the globe. For more information, visit www.hormelfoods.com and

Industry

Food and beverage wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Austin, MN, US

Year founded

1891