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Microbiome Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pendulum™

Director, People

San Francisco, CA

$200K - $226K/yr

Studies have shown that our microbiome (the bacterial communities in and on our bodies) is linked to everything from metabolism and diabetes, to longevity, weight loss, healthy immune systems, cancer ...

Alumni Ventures

Director, People

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200.20 - $225/hr

Studies have shown that our microbiome (the bacterial communities in and on our bodies) is linked to everything from metabolism and diabetes, to longevity, weight loss, healthy immune systems, cancer ...

Pendulum

Director, People

San Francisco, CA

Studies have shown that our microbiome (the bacterial communities in and on our bodies) is linked to everything from metabolism and diabetes, to longevity, weight loss, healthy immune systems, cancer ...

Pendulum™

Director, People

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Studies have shown that our microbiome (the bacterial communities in and on our bodies) is linked to everything from metabolism and diabetes, to longevity, weight loss, healthy immune systems, cancer ...

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All JobsMicrobiome JobsMicrobiome Jobs in California

Microbiome information

See California salary details

$18.8K

$62K

$124.3K

How much do microbiome jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for microbiome in California is $62,016.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,400.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a microbiome?

A microbiome job involves studying microbial communities that inhabit environments such as the human body, soil, or water. Professionals in this field analyze how these microorganisms interact, influence health, and impact ecosystems. Roles may include research scientists, bioinformaticians, or clinical microbiologists working in academia, healthcare, or biotechnology. Responsibilities often involve conducting experiments, sequencing microbial DNA, and interpreting data to develop applications in medicine, agriculture, or environmental science.

What are the typical career paths and advancement opportunities for professionals working in the microbiome field?

Professionals in the microbiome field often start as research associates, lab technicians, or junior scientists and can advance to lead scientist, project manager, or principal investigator roles over time. Opportunities for advancement may also include transitioning into regulatory affairs, clinical development, or business development within biotech, pharmaceutical, or academic organizations. Many organizations encourage further specialization in areas like data science, immunology, or product development, and provide support for conference participation and publication of research. Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams is common and helps broaden professional networks and skillsets. Overall, the field is rapidly evolving, offering ample opportunities for growth, innovation, and meaningful contributions to human and environmental health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a microbiome position?

To excel in a microbiome scientist or researcher role, a strong background in microbiology, bioinformatics, and molecular biology—typically supported by an advanced degree such as a PhD or MSc—is required. Familiarity with technical tools like next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, metagenomic data analysis software, and statistical programming languages (e.g., R or Python) is essential. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and excellent collaboration and communication skills elevate performance in team-based research environments. These competencies are vital for advancing scientific understanding, troubleshooting experiments, and translating findings into impactful applications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiome jobs in California?

The most popular types of Microbiome jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Microbiome jobs in California?

For Microbiome jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Microbiome jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Microbiome jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Microbiome jobs?

Cities in California with the most Microbiome job openings:

Microbiome jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microbiome job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,016 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Associate Scientist, Microbiome & Hygiene - San Diego, CA

DSM

San Diego, CA • On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Associate Scientist, Microbiome & Hygiene - San Diego, CA
Location: San Diego, CA, US
We're looking for a highly motivated Associate Scientist with expertise in microbiome research (human or environmental preferred) to join our Microbiome & Hygiene team. In this role, you'll help advance our understanding of the microbiome and contribute to innovative solutions across health, hygiene, and beauty applications.
Your Key Responsibilities:
  • Contribute to research projects focused on understanding microbiome structure and function relevant to human health, hygiene, and beauty applications
  • Design and execute in vitro and laboratory-based microbiology experiments under the guidance of senior scientists
  • Support development, optimization, and execution of microbiome assays, including microbial culture, cell-based assays, and molecular biology methods
  • Generate, analyze, and summarize experimental data to support mechanistic understanding and project decisions
  • Assist with documentation of experimental protocols, data, and internal reports
  • Support general laboratory operations, including lab maintenance, inventory management, chemical safety documentation, and instrument upkeep

We Bring:
  • Empowerment to make meaningful contributions while upholding ethical standards
  • Recognition and appreciation for scientific rigor and collaboration
  • Opportunities for learning, professional development, and career growth
  • Collaboration with experts in health, nutrition, hygiene, and beauty
  • A supportive environment that encourages curiosity, teamwork, and innovation

You Bring:
  • Master's or PhD degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Microbial Ecology, or a related life science field, with 1-3 years of relevant academic or industry experience in microbiology or microbiome research
  • Hands-on laboratory experience with microbiological techniques such as microbial culture, aseptic techniques, and molecular biology methods (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, RT-qPCR)
  • Experience with human microbiome samples and/or culture-based microbial assays is preferred
  • Ability to follow experimental plans, document results accurately, and work within established protocols
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and adapt in a fast-paced research environment

The salary or hourly wage scale provided reflects the pay range dsm-firmenich expects to pay the successful candidate for the position. Individual pay offered will be based on the applicant's job-related skills, experience, relevant education, or training, and primary work location. Salary $100,000-$110,000.
In addition to base salary, we also offer a comprehensive total rewards package, inclusive of annual incentive pay, a retirement savings plan, health care coverage, paid time off, recognition programs and a broad range of other benefits. All benefits and incentives are subject to eligibility requirements.
About dsm-firmenich
At dsm-firmenich, we don't just meet expectations - we go beyond them.
Join our global team powered by science, creativity, and a shared purpose: to bring progress to life.
From elevating health to making fortified food and sustainable skincare, the impact of your work here will be felt by millions - every single day. Whether it's fragrance that helps you focus, alternative meat that's better for the planet, or reducing sugar without losing flavor, this is where you help shape the future of nutrition, health, and beauty for everyone, everywhere.
And while you're making a difference, we'll make sure you're growing too. With learning that never stops, a culture that lifts you up and the freedom to move across businesses, teams, and borders. Your voice matters here. And your ideas? They're essential to our future.
Because real progress only happens when we go beyond, together.
The application process
Interested in this position? Please apply online by uploading your resume in English via our career portal by June 5, 2026.
Inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity statement
At dsm-firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work - and that's exactly the kind of culture we're building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong.
We're proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we're serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we're committed to reflecting the world we serve.
We welcome candidates from all backgrounds - no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you.
And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we're here to help - just let us know what you need, and we'll do everything we can to make it work.
Agency statement
We're managing this search directly at dsm-firmenich. If you're applying as an individual, we'd love to hear from you. We're not accepting agency submissions or proposals involving fees or commissions for this role.

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