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Microbiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY

HP Hood

Lab Technician - Nights

Batavia, NY · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... * Assist in lab equipment PMs such as cleaning the Micro Luminescence Systems weekly with caustic ... Knowledge of food microbiology, chemistry, dairy standards and CIP sanitation. * Intermediate ...

HP Hood

Lab Technician - Nights

Batavia, NY · On-site

$29.83 - $31.26/hr

... * Assist in lab equipment PMs such as cleaning the Micro Luminescence Systems weekly with caustic ... Knowledge of food microbiology, chemistry, dairy standards and CIP sanitation. * Intermediate ...

HP Hood

Lab Technician - Nights

Batavia, NY

$29.83 - $31.26/hr

... * Assist in lab equipment PMs such as cleaning the Micro Luminescence Systems weekly with caustic ... Knowledge of food microbiology, chemistry, dairy standards and CIP sanitation. * Intermediate ...

All JobsMicrobiology Lab JobsMicrobiology Lab Assistant JobsMicrobiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY

Microbiology Lab Assistant information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$15

$23

$36

How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab assistant in Rochester, NY is $23.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $26.39 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.

More about Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs
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Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,225 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Lab Technician - Nights

HP Hood

Batavia, NY • On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

The Lab Technician will handle all aspects of the lab including chemical testing, bacteria testing and quality assurance to ensure the manufacture and packaging of high quality products.

Shift: Alternating 3 or 4 day work weeks. 12 hour shift beginning at 5:00pm EST.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

 Laboratory testing to meet standards set up in PMO, Standard Methods for the Dairy Industry and FDA 2400 methods requirements.

  • Pulling, logging, and running finish product and processing samples for all test required on each product.
  • Pull sample of incoming raw material and packaging to determine acceptability of loads from our suppliers.
  • Audit CIP chemical concentrations and ensures compliance to company specifications.
  • Must be able to prepare media and other lab controls. These would include but are not limited to pour plates, buffer water, etc.
  • Operate autoclave to sterilize plates and equipment as needed while ensuring sterility test are accurate.
  • Assist in lab equipment PMs such as cleaning the Micro Luminescence Systems weekly with caustic; drain and clean the autoclave bi-weekly; changing fluid standards and filters on the cryoscopy.
  • Inoculating batch tanks with enzyme and vitamins and recording usages on the various logs.
  • Responsible for the daily cleanup and review of racking systems in the incubators and cooler to set up for shelf life testing.
  • Participate in environmental testing in and around plant that includes swabbing, air plating, water sampling, etc.
  • Verifies that plant equipment meets sanitation requirements prior to start up.
  • Various tasks involving the responsibility of the food safety and quality of company products.

Education and Experience:  

  • Prior experience in food manufacturing.
  • Knowledge of food microbiology, chemistry, dairy standards and CIP sanitation.
  • Intermediate Computer Skill (i.e. Word, Excel, etc.)
  • Ability to work well with people.
  • Communication skills are a must.
  • Multi-tasked Individual.
  • Ability to work independently. 

 Physical Requirements:

  •  Ability to move throughout all areas of the facility including but not limited to office, production, and warehouse environments. Including the outside perimeter of the building.
  • Able to work at heights greater than 40 feet while operating a powered industrial truck.
  • Able to wear all necessary personal protective equipment to perform job functions.
  • Stand and/or sit continuously and perform job functions for a full shift with meal break.
  • Physically able to stand, bend, stoop, kneel, reach, twist, lift, push, pull, climb, balance, crouch, handle and move items weighing up to 50 pounds without assistance and move objects exceeding 50 pounds with reasonable accommodations.
  • Visual acuity corrected to perform job functions. 

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