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Microbiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Embryologist

Vienna, VA · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Process semen for IVF procedures according to IVF lab protocol. * Assist physician during egg ... Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, or Microbiology required. * Medical technology licensure ...

postdoc

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

Dr. Sherchan's lab at Morgan State seeks to recruit one postdoc to work in the field of ... The candidate is also expected to assist in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students ...

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Microbiology Lab Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$15

$23

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How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $23.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $26.35 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 are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,202 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Clinical Laboratory Assistant II PRN, Microbiology

University of Maryland Medical System

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$176K/yr

Per diem

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Requirements
Company Description
The University of Maryland Medical System is a 14-hospital system with academic, community and specialty medical services reaching every part of Maryland and beyond. UMMS is a national and regional referral center for trauma, cancer care, Neurocare, cardiac care, women's and children's health and physical rehabilitation. UMMS is the fourth largest private employer in the Baltimore metropolitan area and one of the top 20 employers in the state of Maryland. No organization will give you the clinical variety, the support, or the opportunities for professional growth that you'll enjoy as a member of our team.
Job Summary
Under direct supervision, assists medical laboratory scientists by performing routine laboratory support duties and approved testing in any one of various specialized laboratories throughout UMMS, following departmental procedures and regulations stipulated by Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act.
Primary Responsibilities
The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job responsibilities performed.
  • Receives and accessions patient samples into the Laboratory Information System. Ensures that all codes and information are entered accurately and timely. Maintains accurate patient identification and information for billing purposes following departmental procedures.
  • Processes (centrifuges, aliquots, and performs other special handling procedures for specimens) and delivers specimens to specific laboratories as required. Saves or preserves specimens as needed in refrigerator, freezer, incubator, dry ice, or other storage as appropriate.
  • Identifies and resolves specimen integrity issues such as mislabeled specimens, quantity not sufficient (QNS), specimen integrity, incorrect container type, incorrect/incomplete requisitions, etc., and documents all information for quality assurance purposes.
  • Processes add-on testing according to departmental procedures.
  • May perform waived to moderate complexity testing.
  • Answers telephones and responds to customer inquiries and requests.
  • May perform waived to moderate complexity as approved by the supervisor in accordance with departmental guidelines.
  • Resolves customer complaints/issues and follows through with appropriate documentation.
  • Communicates test results, test descriptions, etc. Assures a high level of customer satisfaction by communicating and responding to a variety of internal and external customers in a professional and courteous manner.
  • Reviews and acts on test pending list.
  • Troubleshoots and solves instrument problems with some assistance from medical laboratory scientists.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience - Required
  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required
  • Minimum of two (2) years of work experience as a Clinical Laboratory Assistant I (CLAI) or equivalent experience in a clinical or hospital setting required.

Education & Experience - Preferred
  • Additional credit hours in biology and/or chemistry at an accredited institution are preferred.

Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Like many employers, UMMS is being targeted by cybercriminals impersonating our recruiters and offering fake job opportunities. We will never ask for banking details, personal identification, or payment via email or text. If you suspect fraud, please contact us at careers@umms.edu.