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Principal Microbiologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Henkel

Principal Microbiologist

Stamford, CT · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Principal Microbiologist to join our HBC R&D team and serve as a technical leader in microbiology across product categories. In this role, the individual will partner ...

Mars

Principal Scientist Microbiology Global

Chicago, IL · On-site

Principal Scientist Microbiology Global The Principal Scientist Microbiology role defines and deploys the Mars Snacking microbiology strategy. Emphasis of the role will be in four key areas: Building ...

RXinsider LTD.

The Principal Scientist, Microbiology Has The Following Responsibilities * Provides scientific leadership for USP's microbiology reference material and reference standards portfolio, ensuring ...

Nucleus RadioPharma

Senior Microbiologist

Rochester, MN · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES * Lead the execution of microbiological methods for radioactive drug products in a GxP environment, including Sterility and Bioburden testing of drug products ...

Syngene International Limited

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Principal Scientist- Quality Control Microbiology Lead Date: 2 Aug 2026 Location: Baltimore, MD, US, 21224 Division: Manufacturing Services Job Title: Principal Specialist - Quality Control ...

Fresenius Kabi

Scientist II (Microbiology)

Wilson, NC · On-site

$29.31 - $41.20/hr

The QC Microbiology department contains four main functional groups ... The principal activities vary slightly between the groups. Hourly Range: $29.31 - $41.20 Final pay ...

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Principal Microbiologist information

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$34.5K

$70.6K

$126K

How much do principal microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal microbiologist in the United States is $70,647.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal microbiologist?

Principal Microbiologists are highly experienced scientists who lead research and development projects related to microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They often oversee teams of microbiologists, design experiments, analyze complex data, ensure laboratory safety, and contribute to scientific publications. In addition to research, they may also advise organizations on infection control, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance. Principal Microbiologists typically have advanced degrees and significant experience in both laboratory and managerial roles. Their work is essential in fields like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and food safety.

How does a principal microbiologist typically collaborate with cross-functional teams in a laboratory setting?

A Principal Microbiologist often works closely with quality assurance, research and development, and production teams to ensure that all microbial testing meets regulatory and safety standards. They serve as a scientific leader, providing guidance on experimental design and troubleshooting complex issues that arise during routine testing or product development. Regular meetings and clear communication are essential, as the Principal Microbiologist translates technical findings into actionable recommendations for both scientific and non-scientific colleagues. This collaborative environment not only supports laboratory efficiency but also helps drive innovation and maintain compliance across projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal microbiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Microbiologist, you need advanced expertise in microbiology, laboratory research, and data analysis, usually supported by a PhD in microbiology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), molecular biology techniques, and regulatory standards such as GMP/GLP is typically required. Strong leadership, critical thinking, and effective communication help you manage teams and convey complex findings clearly. These skills ensure accurate scientific results, regulatory compliance, and successful project leadership in research or industrial settings.

What is the difference between Principal Microbiologist vs Microbiologist?

AspectPrincipal MicrobiologistMicrobiologist
CredentialsBachelor's/Master's/PhD in Microbiology or related field, certifications may varyBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, regulatory agenciesLaboratories, research institutions, quality control departments
Industry UsageLeadership roles, overseeing projects, developing protocolsConducting experiments, data analysis, routine testing

The Principal Microbiologist typically holds a senior, leadership position with advanced responsibilities, while the Microbiologist performs core laboratory work. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but the Principal Microbiologist focuses on oversight and strategy, whereas the Microbiologist is more hands-on with daily testing and research.

Are principal microbiologists in high demand?

Principal microbiologists are in high demand due to their expertise in microbiology, quality control, and research within industries such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and food safety. The role often requires advanced degrees and certifications, and employment opportunities are expected to grow as these sectors expand and prioritize microbial safety and innovation.

What states have the most Principal Microbiologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Principal Microbiologist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Microbiologist jobs?

For Principal Microbiologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Principal Microbiologist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,647 per year, or $34 per hour.

Principal Microbiologist

Stamford, CT

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Henkel AG & Co. KGaAexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

About this Position At Henkel, you'll be part of an organization that's shaping thefuture through innovation, sustainability and collaboration. With our trustedbrands like Persil, 'all, Loctite, Snuggle, and Schwarzkopf and ourcutting-edge technologies, you'll have countless opportunities to explore newpaths and grow.
This position is with our Consumer Brands business unit - where weempower our employees to bring the best Laundry & Home Care and Hairproducts to people around the world.
Dare to learn new skills, advance inyour career and make an impact at Henkel. 

We are seeking an experienced Principal Microbiologist to join our HBC R&D team and serve as a technical leader in microbiology across product categories.  In this role, the individual will partner closely with Product Development and Supply Chain to ensure microbiological integrity of our products, defend product claims, and support informed decision-making while proactively mitigating microbiological risk.
As a recognized subject matter expert, the Principal Microbiologist will provide leadership in preservation strategies, regulatory interpretation, and microbiological risk assessment. The individual will also play a key role in mentoring scientists, strengthening overall R&D microbiology capability, and representing the organization externally in industry forums.
This role is responsible for overseeing R&D microbiological testing, advancing complex study design, and ensuring alignment with both regulatory expectations and manufacturing requirements.

What youll do
  • Lead microbiological support across multiple Product Development teams, ensuring product preservation and antibacterial efficacy strategies are scientifically robust and fit-for-purpose. 
  • Oversee R&D microbiological testing, ensuring alignment with regulatory expectations, product risk, and business needs. 
  • Design and oversee advanced microbiological studies (e.g., preservative efficacy, time kill, Healthcare Personnel Handwash) to support formula development and claims substantiation, including antibacterial claims. 
  • Provide expert interpretation of FDA monographs and global regulatory guidance, translating requirements into actionable development and testing strategies. 
  • Lead cross-functional partnerships with Quality, Hygiene, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing to assess microbiological risk, support root cause investigations, and translate complex microbiological data into clear, actionable insights for stakeholders. 
  • Mentor and develop junior scientists, elevating overall microbiology capability and ensuring knowledge transfer across the organization. 
  • Lead strategic technical initiatives, such as microbiology laboratory capability expansion. 
    Represent the organization in external industry groups and serve as a recognized microbiology delegate

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