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Microbiology Lab Manager Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Lab Assistant

Portland, ME · On-site

$22.54 - $28.25/hr

Work on quality improvement initiatives with manager, as directed * Follows all OSHA and CLIA ... Plating microbiology cultures * Capping and storing samples * Processing Urgent Care samples STAT

Lab Assistant

Portland, ME · On-site

$25.40/hr

Work on quality improvement initiatives with manager, as directed * Follows all OSHA and CLIA ... Plating microbiology cultures * Capping and storing samples * Processing Urgent Care samples STAT

Lab Assistant

Portland, ME · On-site

$25.40/hr

Work on quality improvement initiatives with manager, as directed * Follows all OSHA and CLIA ... Plating microbiology cultures * Capping and storing samples * Processing Urgent Care samples STAT

Microbiology Lab Manager information

See Portland, ME salary details

$43.5K

$99.1K

$150.4K

How much do microbiology lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for microbiology lab manager in Portland, ME is $99,051.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $134,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a microbiology lab manager do?

A Microbiology Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of a microbiology laboratory, ensuring that all testing and research activities adhere to safety protocols and quality standards. They supervise laboratory staff, manage resources and equipment, and are responsible for maintaining accurate records and reports. Additionally, Microbiology Lab Managers often develop and implement laboratory procedures, train new personnel, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Their role is essential in facilitating efficient lab operations and supporting scientific discoveries or diagnostic testing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a microbiology lab manager?

To thrive as a Microbiology Lab Manager, you need a strong background in microbiology, laboratory management, and quality assurance, typically supported by a relevant science degree and several years of lab experience. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), aseptic techniques, and certifications such as ASCP or similar are commonly expected. Strong leadership, organization, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart in managing teams and ensuring compliance. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining laboratory accuracy, safety, and efficiency in delivering reliable scientific results.

What are some common challenges faced by a microbiology lab manager, and how can they be addressed?

Microbiology Lab Managers often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict quality control standards, ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing a diverse team of laboratory personnel. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on supervision can be demanding, especially when coordinating multiple projects simultaneously. Effective communication, ongoing staff training, and staying current with industry regulations are essential strategies to address these challenges and ensure smooth laboratory operations.

What is the difference between Microbiology Lab Manager vs Microbiologist?

AspectMicrobiology Lab ManagerMicrobiologist
CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Microbiology or related field; often managerial certificationsBachelor’s or higher in Microbiology or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, overseeing lab operations and staffConducting experiments, research, and analysis in labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, healthcare, biotech companiesResearch labs, healthcare, academia, industry

The Microbiology Lab Manager primarily oversees lab operations, staff, and compliance, requiring managerial skills and certifications. In contrast, the Microbiologist focuses on conducting experiments and research. Both roles are essential in microbiology settings but differ in responsibilities and focus areas.

What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Manager jobs in Portland, ME?

For Microbiology Lab Manager jobs in Portland, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Microbiology Lab Manager jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Microbiology Lab Manager jobs in Portland, ME are:

Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Manager job openings in Portland, ME as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,425 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Laboratory Technician - Microbiology

Maine Medical Center

Scarborough, ME • On-site

$20.68 - $25.10/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 27 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Performs and monitors laboratory testing of patient specimens according to established procedures and regulatory requirements.

  • Receives specimens, processes routine bacteriology specimens, and appropriately stores or distributes other specimens.

  • Performs and results gram stains and rapid kit testing.


Maine Medical Center rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

546th of 1,065 rated hospitals


Job description

Description
NorDx
Professional - Clinical
Req #: 84801
Summary:
The Laboratory Technician role independently performs and monitors laboratory testing of patient specimens according to established procedures and regulatory requirements. To include but not limited to receiving specimens in Microbiology, processing routine bacteriology specimens, and appropriately storing and/or distributing other specimens. Performs and results gram stains and rapid kit testing. Recognizes technical, instrumental problems and initiates resolutions. Assumes responsibility for accuracy, quality control and required instrument maintenance. May provide training of laboratory and/or other health care personnel as directed.
This position will allow you to hone your laboratory knowledge and skills in a department that has historically offered a pathway for career advancement. Microbiology is a recognized subspecialty by ASCP and the Microbiology Dept at NorDx periodically offers an apprentice program that can be applied to when available that provides both the training and experience to obtain certification with ASCP. This is a perfect opportunity for a college student or recent graduate who is looking for a way to gain this valuable laboratory experience. In addition, per diem employees are the preferred candidates when full or part-time laboratory technician positions become available.
Minimum coverage requirements for this position are, every third weekend and a rotating list of holidays on dayshift. Additional hours will be offered to cover vacation or other leaves of absence.
Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
  1. Education: Associate's Degree preferred.
  2. License/Certifications: Medical Laboratory Assistant Certification preferred.
  3. Experience: Six months of healthcare experience preferred.
  4. Additional Skills/Requirements Required: Must be able to travel among company sites.
  5. Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A

Additional Information
MaineHealth is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment where care team members can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve across Maine and New Hampshire. We offer competitive benefits including paid parental leave, flexible work options, student loan assistance, professional development opportunities, and well-being resources-so you can grow your career while feeling supported both personally and professionally.
We recognize the value each team member brings to our organization. Any offer of employment will depend on qualifications such as skills, relevant experience, education, certifications, and other job-related factors. The base range is an estimate and does not reflect the full value of our total compensation package.
The pay range for this position is $20.68 to $25.10 per hour.
Compensation for part-time positions is determined on a prorated basis consistent with the scheduled hours and applicable full-time equivalent (FTE).
In addition to base pay, MaineHealth offers comprehensive benefits, recognition programs, career growth opportunities, and, where applicable, shift differentials or other incentives.
If you have questions about this role, please contact [email protected]
Hiring Scam Alert
MaineHealth will never request financial information during the interview or pre-hiring process. All legitimate communications will come from an email address ending in @mainehealth.org. If you suspect fraudulent activity, please report it immediately to [email protected] .
Notice Regarding Maine Employer Surveillance Statute: Pursuant to Maine's Employer Surveillance Statute, prospective care team members are notified that MaineHealth may monitor, collect, record, review, or retain information related to the use of its systems, networks, applications, files, data, communications platforms (including notified recordings), smart badges, building access, company vehicle GPS data, business calls, and workplace security cameras.
Information collected may be used for legitimate business purposes, including security, safety, compliance, investigations, training, quality assurance, and operational management.

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