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Senior Microbiologist Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

VB Spine

Sr. Microbiologist

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Senior Microbiologist Location: Leesburg, VA or Allendale, NJ (10% Travel Required) Company: VB Spine Looking for a career where your work truly matters? At VB Spine, you'll be part of a mission ...

Guidehouse

Senior Staff, Clinical Microbiology

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$149K - $248K/yr

Provide clinical operational oversight and consultation for microbiology testing, with the majority of effort devoted to clinical service activities. * Participate in clinical call responsibilities ...

Guidehouse

Senior Staff, Clinical Microbiology

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$149K - $248K/yr

Provide clinical operational oversight and consultation for microbiology testing, with the majority of effort devoted to clinical service activities. * Participate in clinical call responsibilities ...

Addison Group

Senior Staff Packaging Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$128K - $136K/yr

Senior Staff Packaging Engineer Location: Leesburg, VA (5-15% Travel) Compensation: $128,000 - $136 ... Microbiology, or a related technical discipline. * Minimum 6 years of experience in packaging ...

Addison Group

Senior Staff Packaging Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$128K - $136K/yr

Senior Staff Packaging Engineer Location: Leesburg, VA (5-15% Travel) Compensation: $128,000 - $136 ... Microbiology, or a related technical discipline. * Minimum 6 years of experience in packaging ...

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All JobsMicrobiologist JobsSenior Microbiologist JobsSenior Microbiologist Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Senior Microbiologist information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$55.8K

$90.1K

$132.8K

How much do senior microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior microbiologist in Silver Spring, MD is $90,111.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,900.00 and $99,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Microbiologist vs Microbiologist?

AspectSenior MicrobiologistMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology, often with 5+ years experienceBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, quality control departmentsLaboratories, research institutions, healthcare settings
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical, biotech, food safety, healthcareHealthcare, research, environmental testing, manufacturing

Both roles involve microbiological testing and analysis, but Senior Microbiologists typically have more experience, leadership responsibilities, and advanced expertise. Microbiologists are entry to mid-level professionals performing routine testing and research. The senior role often involves supervising projects, mentoring staff, and contributing to strategic decisions, whereas microbiologists focus on executing laboratory tasks and experiments.

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

To thrive as a Senior Microbiologist, you need an advanced degree in microbiology or a related field, extensive laboratory experience, and a solid understanding of microbial techniques and analysis. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), advanced microscopy, PCR, and regulatory standards such as ISO or GMP is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing teams and collaborating across departments. These capabilities ensure accurate research outcomes, regulatory compliance, and innovation in complex scientific environments.

What are some common challenges senior microbiologists face when leading laboratory teams?

Senior Microbiologists often encounter challenges such as balancing administrative responsibilities with hands-on research, ensuring compliance with strict safety and regulatory standards, and troubleshooting unexpected results or equipment malfunctions. Leading a team also involves mentoring junior staff, fostering collaboration, and managing project timelines to meet organizational goals. Effective communication and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges and maintaining a productive and safe laboratory environment.

What is a senior microbiologist?

Senior Microbiologists are experienced scientists who study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They typically lead laboratory teams, design and oversee experiments, analyze data, and ensure that research adheres to quality and safety standards. In addition to conducting research, they may also develop new testing methods, mentor junior staff, and collaborate with other departments or external organizations. Senior Microbiologists often work in industries such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food safety, and environmental science.
What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiologist jobs in Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Microbiologist jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Microbiologist jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Senior Microbiologist jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Microbiologist jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Microbiologist jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Senior Microbiologist jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Senior Microbiologist job openings:
Senior Microbiologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Microbiologist job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 49% Full Time, 46% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 57% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 42% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,111 per year, or $43.3 per hour.

Sr. Microbiologist

VB Spine

Leesburg, VA • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Senior Microbiologist
Location: Leesburg, VA or Allendale, NJ (10% Travel Required)
Company: VB Spine
Looking for a career where your work truly matters? At VB Spine, you'll be part of a mission-focused team that supports surgeons during life-changing spinal procedures. We're the largest privately held spine company and among the largest family-owned medical technology companies in the world, dedicated to innovation, surgeon partnerships, and improving patient outcomes in spine care. As a Senior Microbiologist in our CQR function within the Spine division, you'll lead Biological Safety activities - including Microbiology, Biocompatibility, Sterilization, and Cleaning - ensuring the safety and compliance of medical devices throughout their lifecycle.
What You'll Do:
  • Apply advanced knowledge of microbiological concepts, practices, and procedures related to FDA, EU, ISO 17664, ISO 17665, ISO 10993, AAMI ST79, AAMI TIR 30, AAMI TIR 12, and applicable BS EN ISO standards
  • Ensure and maximize biocompatibility of products, components, materials, and consumables using industry guidelines and advanced testing technologies
  • Perform microbiology, sterilization, biocompatibility, and chemical assessments for new product introductions, design/process changes, and day-to-day activities
  • Actively support and advise on existing processes and new product development
  • Manage laboratory testing related to reprocessing, manufacturing (cleaning and sterilization), and biocompatibility according to procedures and standards
  • Oversee cleanroom environmental control (air, surface, particle viability) and facilities (e.g., water systems) in accordance with applicable standards
  • Interpret sampling and monitoring data using statistical and analytical techniques to determine control and trends
  • Continuously identify opportunities for trend stabilization and statistical process control to drive cost savings
  • Own, drive, and support NC/CAPA activities, including non-conformance correction and root cause analysis
  • Manage relationships with cleaning service providers, sterilization and testing laboratories, and collaborate with the Supplier Quality team
  • Complete gap assessments of external documents related to biocompatibility, reprocessing, and manufacturing activities
  • Work cross-functionally with Manufacturing Engineering, R&D, Operations, and Regulatory Affairs to develop best practices
  • Participate in change control board activities and internal/external regulatory audits (FDA, BSI, GMED, etc.)
  • Execute quality initiatives that support compliance and continuous improvement of Biological Safety processes
  • Perform validations/(re)qualifications and develop/improve SOPs and work instructions aligned with evolving standards
  • Act as a subject matter expert in microbiology-related regulations and local procedures
  • Coach, mentor, and train team members and functional groups in Biological Safety
  • Serve as backup for Biological Safety activities across sites as needed

What You Bring:
  • Bachelor's degree in Microbiology or a related discipline (Biomedical Engineering, Biology, etc.)
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in a quality or regulatory affairs related environment
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Microbiologist focused on Cleaning, Biocompatibility, and Sterilization, plus 2 years related to microbiology and chemistry
  • 2+ years of applied device or pharmaceutical microbiological or biological testing, R&D, or sterility assurance experience
  • Understanding of sterilization techniques such as gamma irradiation, ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide gas plasma, moist heat, dry heat, or other modalities
  • Mandatory experience interacting with regulatory agencies (FDA, Department of Health, TUV, BSI, etc.)
  • Excellent knowledge of U.S. and international medical device regulations and standards in Biological Safety
  • Highly proficient in statistical techniques, data review, and analysis
  • Strong communication, negotiation, project management, and influencing skills
  • Critical thinking, innovative reasoning, and excellent problem-solving abilities
  • Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and mentor others

Why VB Spine?
We believe in growing talent from within. At VB Spine, join a high-performing CQR team where your expertise in Biological Safety will directly ensure the safety and compliance of innovative spinal products that improve patient lives.
Compensation:
Pay for this role is competitive and based on experience, qualifications, and performance. The typical pay range for this position is $80,000.00 - $90,000.00 annually, with potential for bonuses and incentives plus benefits. Final compensation is determined on a case-by-case basis and considers a variety of factors including experience level, technical expertise, and market conditions.
Benefits include:
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
  • Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
  • Opportunity to grow within a fast-paced, dynamic company

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