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Public Health Microbiologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

San Diego Country

Public Health

San Diego, CA · On-site

$107K/yr

Public Health Microbiologist - Temporary The Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA), Public Health Services (PHS) is currently accepting applications for Public Health Microbiologist - Temporary.

GovernmentJobs.com

Public Health

San Diego, CA · On-site

$107K/yr

Public Health Microbiologist - Temporary The Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA), Public Health Services (PHS) is currently accepting applications for Public Health Microbiologist - Temporary.

County of San Diego

Public Health

San Diego, CA · On-site

$107K/yr

The Public Health Microbiologist is responsible for conducting a wide variety of clinical diagnostic and microbiological tests on specimens from humans, animals, environmental, and food sources. In ...

Heluna Health

Microbiologist II (Genomics)

Richmond, CA · On-site

$37.63/hr

Weekend, holiday, and overtime coverage may be required during public health emergencies. The ... Possession of a Bachelor's degree in the field of microbiology, molecular biology, genetics, life ...

Bunge Iberica SA

Senior Microbiologist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$80 - $95/hr

Senior Microbiologist Date: May 15, 2026 Location: Chesterfield, MO (Missouri), 63017 - City: St ... Health Benefits - Offering choices so you can enroll in medical, dental and vision plans that meet ...

Bunge

Senior Microbiologist

Chesterfield, MO

$71K - $95K/yr

The Senior Microbiologist will ensure food safety and microbiology alignment at our production and ... Health Benefits - Offering choices so you can enroll in medical, dental and vision plans that meet ...

Bunge

Senior Microbiologist

Chesterfield, MO

$71K - $95K/yr

The Senior Microbiologist will ensure food safety and microbiology alignment at our production and ... Health Benefits - Offering choices so you can enroll in medical, dental and vision plans that meet ...

Bunge North America

Senior Microbiologist

Chesterfield, MO

$71K - $95K/yr

The Senior Microbiologist will ensure food safety and microbiology alignment at our production and ... Health Benefits Offering choices so you can enroll in medical, dental and vision plans that meet ...

Bunge

Senior Microbiologist

Chesterfield, MO · On-site

$71K - $95K/yr

The Senior Microbiologist will ensure food safety and microbiology alignment at our production and ... Health Benefits - Offering choices so you can enroll in medical, dental and vision plans that meet ...

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Public Health Microbiologist information

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$54K

$87.2K

$128.5K

How much do public health microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for public health microbiologist in the United States is $87,167.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,500.00 and $96,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public health microbiologist?

Public health microbiologists are scientists who study microorganisms—such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites—that affect public health. They work in laboratories to detect, identify, and monitor infectious diseases, and often assist in outbreak investigations. Their work is essential for disease prevention, control, and providing data that informs public health policy and response. Public health microbiologists may also be involved in research, surveillance, and education about infectious diseases. They typically work for government health departments, public health laboratories, or research institutions.

What does a public health microbiologist do?

A public health microbiologist performs research on organisms that cause diseases or other health issues in the community. You work in a laboratory or in the field to study how illnesses spread, often studying contamination via vectors like food and water. Your duties include obtaining samples, making cultures, and studying them with advanced equipment, frequently using computer models to analyze data. You consult with physicians and public health officials to focus your research and solve specific health issues. Your responsibilities include reporting your findings to the relevant authorities, like a government agency or public healthcare organization.

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

To thrive as a Public Health Microbiologist, you need a strong background in microbiology, laboratory techniques, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in microbiology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), molecular diagnostic tools, and certifications like Public Health Microbiologist certification are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurate testing and collaborative outbreak investigations. These competencies are crucial for ensuring public health safety through reliable identification and control of infectious agents.

What are some common challenges faced by public health microbiologists when investigating disease outbreaks?

Public Health Microbiologists often face challenges such as rapidly identifying pathogens from complex clinical or environmental samples and interpreting results under tight time constraints, especially during outbreaks. They must also coordinate with epidemiologists, healthcare providers, and public health officials to ensure timely communication and accurate reporting. Adapting to evolving laboratory technologies and strict biosafety protocols is essential to maintain high standards of public safety. These challenges require strong analytical skills, adaptability, and effective teamwork.

What is the difference between Public Health Microbiologist vs Clinical Microbiologist?

AspectPublic Health MicrobiologistClinical Microbiologist
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in microbiology, public health certificationsBachelor's or higher in microbiology, clinical laboratory certifications
Work EnvironmentPublic health labs, government agenciesHospital labs, medical facilities
Employer & IndustryPublic health departments, government agenciesHospitals, clinics, medical laboratories

Public Health Microbiologists focus on disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and public health safety, often working in government labs. Clinical Microbiologists primarily work in hospital labs, diagnosing patient infections. While both roles require microbiology expertise and certifications, their work settings and objectives differ significantly.

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Public Health Microbiologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Health Microbiologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,167 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Public Health Microbiologist

County of Imperial, CA

El Centro, CA • On-site

$6.2K - $7.6K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Salary: $6,279.00 - $7,643.00 Monthly
Location : County of Imperial, CA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 202501728
Department: Public Health
Division: 1044001 Public Health
Opening Date: 04/09/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Basic Function and Distinguishing Characteristics
Under the direction of the Public Health Laboratory Manager, perform public health laboratory tests and analysis on clinical, environmental and animal specimens in support of public health programs and community health care providers; provide administrative and technical support for public health programs, supervisors and administrators.
Education and Experience/ Licenses and Other Requirements
Any combination equivalent to: bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, microbiology or other subject area consistent with California certification for registration as a Public Health Microbiologist.
Public Health Microbiologist certificate issued by the California State Department of Health Services.
Supplemental Information
A valid driver's license may be required at the time of appointment and employees may also be required to drive their own vehicle and provide proof of liability insurance as per Vehicle Code VC § 160020. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
This position may require pre-employment drug test, physical examination, and fingerprinting for a background investigation.
The County of Imperial does not unlawfully discriminate on any prohibited basis under state or federal law including prohibitions listed in title VII, the Age and Discrimination and Employment Act, section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Fair Employment and Housing Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
If you feel you have a need for special arrangements due to a disability in order to participate in the recruitment process, call (442) 265-1148 or TTY (442) 265-1169.
*NOTE: IF YOU BELIEVE YOUR CIVIL RIGHTS IN EMPLOYMENT MATTERS HAVE BEEN VIOLATED AT ANY TIME DURING THE COURSE OF YOUR CONSIDERATION FOR EMPLOYMENT, CONTACT THE EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY OFFICE, 940 W. MAIN STREET, SUITE 101, EL CENTRO, CA 92243, PHONE: (442) 265-1017 (DO NOT CALL THIS NUMBER FOR GENERAL EMPLOYMENT OR JOB APPLICATION INFORMATION).
About Imperial County: Imperial County is located in the Imperial Valley in the southeast of California, bordering Arizona and Mexico, with the Colorado River forming the County's eastern boundary. Imperial County is a major agricultural center, producing half of the nation's winter vegetables, as well as extensive renewable resources, such as geothermal, wind, and solar. Off-road enthusiasts are drawn to the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation area, and the Colorado River is a popular destination for watersports, including fishing, boating, and water skiing. Fans of the popular movie, The Return of the Jedi, will recognize the Algodones Sand Dunes, where the movie was filmed.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page:
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