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Microbiology Lab Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

$30.94 - $40.99/hr

August 05, 2026 Department: 72006346 Central Lab Microbiology Shift: Day/Evening (United States of America) Shift Length: 8 hour shift Hours Per Week: 40 Union Contract: SEIU-9-Central Lab-SLC ...

Lab Technician (Gluten Lab) Location: Minneapolis, MN Type: Contract Compensation: $23/hr Work ... Ideal candidates should have a degree in microbiology, food science, biology, chemistry, or related ...

Lab Technician (Gluten Lab) Location: Minneapolis, MN Type: Contract Compensation: $23/hr Work ... Ideal candidates should have a degree in microbiology, food science, biology, chemistry, or related ...

Lab Technician (Gluten Lab) Location: Minneapolis, MN Type: Contract Compensation: $23/hr Work ... Ideal candidates should have a degree in microbiology, food science, biology, chemistry, or related ...

Lab Tech (MLT or MLS)

Grand Marais, MN · On-site

$26.77 - $44.23/hr

Hematology, Coagulation, Urinalysis, Serology, Chemistry, Microbiology and Transfusion Medicine ... lab responsibilities as needed. We provide laboratory services for outpatients and Care Center ...

Lab Tech (MLT or MLS)

Grand Marais, MN · On-site

$26.77 - $44.23/hr

Hematology, Coagulation, Urinalysis, Serology, Chemistry, Microbiology and Transfusion Medicine ... lab responsibilities as needed. We provide laboratory services for outpatients and Care Center ...

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Microbiology Lab information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$22

$39

How much do microbiology lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab in Minnesota is $22.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a microbiology lab do?

A microbiology lab specializes in studying microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These labs perform tests to identify and analyze microbes in samples from humans, animals, food, water, or the environment. The results are used for diagnosing infections, monitoring public health, ensuring food safety, and supporting research. Microbiology labs play a vital role in detecting outbreaks, guiding treatment decisions, and advancing scientific knowledge.

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

To thrive as a Microbiology Lab Technician, you need a strong background in biology or microbiology, laboratory techniques, and attention to detail, typically backed by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, aseptic techniques, and data analysis software such as LIMS is essential. Strong organizational skills, critical thinking, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure precise, reliable results and maintain laboratory safety and efficiency in testing and research environments.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a microbiology lab, and how can they be managed?

One common challenge in a microbiology lab is maintaining strict aseptic techniques to prevent contamination, which requires constant attention to detail and proper training. Technicians also frequently balance multiple tests with tight turnaround times, so strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize are essential. Additionally, working with potentially hazardous microorganisms means adhering to safety protocols at all times, often in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Open communication and teamwork help manage workloads and ensure accurate results.

What is the difference between Microbiology Lab vs Microbiology Technician?

AspectMicrobiology LabMicrobiology Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in microbiology or related fieldOften requires an associate degree or certification in microbiology techniques
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, often in hospitals, research facilities, or biotech companiesLaboratory or clinical environment, supporting microbiologists and scientists
Job RoleOversees microbiological testing, manages lab operations, and ensures quality controlPerforms tests, prepares samples, and assists microbiologists in experiments

Microbiology labs focus on managing and overseeing microbiological testing processes, often requiring higher education and managerial responsibilities. Microbiology technicians support these labs by conducting tests and preparing samples, typically with less formal education. Both roles are essential in microbiology work environments, but they differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

Are microbiology lab professionals in high demand?

Microbiology lab professionals are in high demand due to the need for accurate disease diagnosis, research, and public health monitoring. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as laboratories seek skilled technicians with knowledge of microbiological techniques and laboratory equipment.

What careers can you do with microbiology?

A microbiology lab professional can pursue careers such as microbiologist, clinical laboratory technician, research scientist, quality control analyst, or public health microbiologist. These roles often require knowledge of laboratory techniques, microbiological tools, and safety protocols, and may involve working in healthcare, research institutions, or industry settings.

What microbiology lab jobs pay well?

In microbiology labs, roles such as microbiologist, senior scientist, or laboratory manager tend to offer higher salaries, often exceeding $70,000 annually depending on experience and location. Advanced positions requiring specialized skills, certifications, or management responsibilities generally pay more than entry-level roles.

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

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

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Microbiology Lab jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Microbiology Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,847 per year, or $22.5 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 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Performs assays in the microbiology lab, primarily involving non-pathogen organisms.

  • Conducts Quality Control procedures and maintains related records.

  • Assists with administrative tasks such as safety audits, obtaining Certificates of Analysis (COAs), and ordering supplies and chemicals.


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