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Quality Control Microbiologist Jobs in Wisconsin

Perform microbiological analysis on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished goods to support product release and quality control. * Conduct microbiological testing on environmental samples ...

Perform microbiological analysis on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished goods to support product release and quality control. * Conduct microbiological testing on environmental samples ...

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Microbiology, Biology, or a related scientific field - or an ... Knowledge of analytical methods and testing performed within the Quality Control (QC) department.

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Quality Control Microbiologist information

See Wisconsin salary details

$13

$30

$51

How much do quality control microbiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality control microbiologist in Wisconsin is $30.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $32.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Quality Control Microbiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Quality Control Microbiologist, you need a solid background in microbiology, laboratory techniques, and a relevant science degree such as microbiology, biology, or biochemistry. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), aseptic techniques, and industry regulations like GMP and ISO standards is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are vital to ensure accurate testing, compliance with safety standards, and effective collaboration in maintaining product quality.

What are some common challenges faced by Quality Control Microbiologists, and how can they be addressed?

Quality Control Microbiologists often encounter challenges such as meeting tight testing deadlines while ensuring accuracy, handling unexpected contamination events, and staying up-to-date with rapidly changing regulatory standards. These challenges can be managed by developing strong organizational skills, participating in ongoing training, and maintaining open communication with production and quality assurance teams. Additionally, implementing robust standard operating procedures and regular equipment calibrations helps minimize errors and ensures reliable results.

What are Quality Control Microbiologists?

Quality Control Microbiologists are professionals who monitor and test products, materials, or environments in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics to ensure they are free from harmful microorganisms. They perform laboratory tests, analyze samples, and document results to verify compliance with safety and quality standards. Their work is critical in preventing contamination and ensuring products are safe for consumers. They also play a key role in troubleshooting issues and recommending corrective actions to improve manufacturing processes.

What is the difference between Quality Control Microbiologist vs Quality Assurance Specialist?

AspectQuality Control MicrobiologistQuality Assurance Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in microbiology, biology, or related field; certifications like ASQ are a plusSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in related fields and certifications in quality management
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings focused on testing and analyzing samples for microbial contaminationOffice and production environments overseeing quality systems and compliance
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in pharmaceutical, biotech, and food industries for microbial testingUsed across manufacturing sectors to develop and maintain quality standards

While both roles focus on quality, the Quality Control Microbiologist primarily conducts microbial testing in labs, whereas the Quality Assurance Specialist oversees overall quality systems and compliance. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Quality Control Microbiologist jobs in Wisconsin? For Quality Control Microbiologist jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Quality Control Microbiologist jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Quality Control Microbiologist jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Quality Control Microbiologist jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Quality Control Microbiologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Quality Control Microbiologist jobs in WI? For Quality Control Microbiologist jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Quality Control Microbiologist job openings in Wisconsin as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $63,323 per year, or $30.4 per hour.
Microbiologist I - 3rd Shift

Microbiologist I - 3rd Shift

Johnsonville

Sheboygan Falls, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Johnsonville rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 377 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Johnsonville Location: Microbiology Lab
Our No. 1 priority at Johnsonville is providing a safe work environment for every Member we employ. Our industry-leading safety record, coupled with the safety awards we've received, demonstrate this commitment. Members of our safety team maintain the safety of Johnsonville Members in our facilities, continuously finding new and better ways to do so. We're also dedicated to producing only the highest-quality products for consumers worldwide to enjoy - ones we would be proud to serve at our own family table. Our quality team ensures Johnsonville meets or exceeds all standards set by the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), of the US Department of Agriculture and other regulatory agencies. Our commitment to quality is unparalleled, thanks to the dedication of each quality team member.
Position Overview
The Microbiologist I will play a critical role in ensuring Johnsonville sausage products meet the highest standards of food safety and quality. Working overnight in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, you will generate, analyze, and interpret microbiological data that supports safe production decisions. This role offers hands-on exposure to sausage manufacturing processes, advanced microbiology techniques, and opportunities to collaborate with production teams through troubleshooting and continuous improvement efforts.
Responsibilities
  • Generate, analyze, interpret, and report microbiological test results to support food safety and quality standards
  • Perform routine and rapid microbiological testing, including pathogenic and indicator organisms, using standard and state-of-the-art detection technologies
  • Collect and analyze environmental swabs, raw materials, and finished product samples during overnight operations
  • Support Ready-to-Eat (RTE) and Fresh shelf-life evaluation programs, including calibration and verification activities
  • Serve as an overnight technical resource for microbiology, quality control, and sanitation-related questions
  • Maintain accurate daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly records, including certifications and regulatory documentation
  • Follow and enforce microbiology Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) protocols
  • Prepare microbiological media, standard solutions, and laboratory materials; sterilize equipment and glassware
  • Identify trends, escalate concerns, and recommend corrective actions to protect product safety
  • Participate in evaluating and implementing new microbiological methods and technologies
  • Support a clean, organized, and audit-ready laboratory environment

Education
  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Microbiology, Food Science, Meat Science, Biology; working toward a degree or equivalent experience required

Experience
  • Experience with routine food and environmental microbiology testing in a manufacturing or laboratory setting preferred
  • Hands-on experience setting up, maintaining, and troubleshooting laboratory equipment and instrumentation preferred

Skills
  • Strong knowledge of food and meat microbiology, particularly in Ready-to-Eat and raw meat environments
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel for data entry, analysis, and reporting
  • Strong attention to detail and data integrity, especially during independent overnight work
  • Ability to interpret results, communicate risks, and initiate corrective actions when necessary
  • Effective problem-solving skills and sound decision-making abilities
  • Comfortable working independently with minimal supervision, while collaborating with cross-functional teams
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Demonstrated commitment to food safety, quality, and continuous improvement
  • Passion for learning, innovation, and supporting manufacturing excellence

Other Requirements
  • Shift/Hours: 3rd Shift; Flexible with a start time between 9pm-1am. Rotational weekend work required.
  • Travel: Less than 10% of your time
  • Must be at least 18 years old

Benefits and Compensation
Applicants must be eligible to work in the country where this job is located, without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.
About our Company
Since 1945, our family-owned band of sausage-makers has invented better ways to make, eat and prepare crave-able sausage. Today, we are 4,000+ Members strong. We sell our famous sausage in all 50 United States and more than 40 countries. We have a culture built on the idea that if we make developing your talents our top priority, great business results will follow naturally. We call it The Johnsonville Way. It has been our secret sauce for decades, and we hope you get to experience it for yourself!
Johnsonville is an equal opportunity employer, including Vet/Disability.
We embrace the principles of Equal Opportunity Employment and do not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic, including protected veteran and disability status.
Join Our Community
The Johnsonville Way
Our culture, called the Johnsonville Way, guides the way we behave, operate and treat one another. We truly believe that here at Johnsonville, we have a moral responsibility to create and maintain an environment that requires each Member to fully develop their God-given talents and help others to do the same. We achieve this by living the Johnsonville Way.
Our owner is famous for saying that, "Other companies use their people to build a business, but at Johnsonville, we use the business to build our people." We are proud to offer endless opportunities for continued learning and growth here at Johnsonville.

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