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Microbiology Lab Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Lab Technician 1

Franklin Park, IL

$20 - $24.75/hr

Launch Your Microbiology Career with a Global Pharmaceutical Leader Lab Technician I / Scientist I - Quality Control Microbiology Are you passionate about microbiology, environmental monitoring, and ...

Clarke

Senior Microbiologist

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$95 - $120/hr

Lead daily microbiology lab operations, ensuring efficient workflow and compliance with quality and safety standards. * Serve as the SME for microbial active ingredients and Bacillus-based ...

Clarke

Senior Microbiologist

Lombard, IL · On-site

$95 - $120/hr

Lead daily microbiology lab operations, ensuring efficient workflow and compliance with quality and safety standards. * Serve as the SME for microbial active ingredients and Bacillus-based ...

Clarke

Senior Microbiologist

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Lead daily microbiology lab operations, ensuring efficient workflow and compliance with quality and safety standards. * Serve as the SME for microbial active ingredients and Bacillus-based ...

Clarke

Senior Microbiologist

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Key ResponsibilitiesLead daily microbiology lab operations, ensuring efficient workflow and compliance with quality and safety standards.Serve as the SME for microbial active ingredients and Bacillus ...

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All JobsMicrobiology Lab JobsMicrobiology Lab Jobs in Chicago, IL

Microbiology Lab information

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$14

$23

$41

How much do microbiology lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab in Chicago, IL is $23.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $24.76 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Microbiology Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Microbiology Lab jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Microbiology Lab jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Microbiology Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Microbiology Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,312 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Microbiology & Molecular Diagnostics Lab Manager

Prime Healthcare

Evanston, IL • On-site

$85.72 - $115.38/hr

Other

Re-posted 27 days ago

Prime Healthcare rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 287 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

613th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Prime Healthcare is seeking a Microbiology and Molecular Manager for Saint Francis Hospital in Evanston, Illinois. This role entails providing leadership for both Microbiology and Molecular Diagnostics within the Core Laboratory, ensuring efficient lab operations, quality performance, and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s degree with at least five years in microbiology or molecular lab experience, with preferred ASCP certification and supervisory experience. A competitive salary range of $85,716.80 to $115,377.60 is provided, along with a comprehensive benefits package.

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