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Virology Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Molecular Virology Lead Technician Overview: Please note that this position is contingent upon the ... The annual salary range for this position is $80,000 - $90,000. At Goldbelt, we value and reward ...

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Virology Salary information

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How much do virology salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for virology salary in the United States is $23.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do virologists make good money?

Virologists typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $60,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles in research or industry may offer higher compensation, especially with specialized skills and certifications. Salary can also vary based on the work environment, such as academia, government, or private sector.

What is the difference between Virology Salary vs Microbiologist Salary?

AspectVirology SalaryMicrobiologist Salary
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Virology, Molecular BiologyMaster's or PhD in Microbiology, Biology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, healthcare, academiaResearch labs, healthcare, industry
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, biotech firms, universitiesHospitals, pharmaceutical companies, government agencies

Both virologists and microbiologists typically hold advanced degrees and work in research or healthcare settings. While their work environments and employer types overlap, virologists focus specifically on viruses, whereas microbiologists study a broader range of microorganisms. Salary differences depend on specialization, experience, and industry demand.

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

To thrive as a Virologist, you need a solid background in microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemistry, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a PhD in virology or a related field. Proficiency in laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and familiarity with biosafety protocols are essential, along with relevant certifications in laboratory safety. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help virologists conduct research and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for conducting accurate research, ensuring laboratory safety, and advancing scientific understanding of viruses.

Are virologists in high demand?

Virologists are in increasing demand due to ongoing research in infectious diseases and public health. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as laboratories, healthcare institutions, and government agencies seek experts with skills in microbiology, molecular biology, and laboratory techniques.

What is the average salary of a virologist?

The average salary of a virologist varies depending on factors such as education, experience, location, and the type of employer. In the United States, virologists typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 per year, with those working in research institutions or pharmaceutical companies often earning on the higher end of the scale. Advanced positions or those with significant experience can see salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. Compensation may also include benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and research funding.

What are some common career advancement paths for professionals working in virology?

Professionals in virology often begin their careers as research assistants or laboratory technicians and can advance to roles such as research scientists, laboratory managers, or principal investigators. With experience and additional qualifications, some virologists move into leadership positions in academia, government agencies, or biotechnology companies. Others may transition into roles in public health, regulatory affairs, or science communication. Continuous learning and staying updated with advancements in virology are key to progressing in this dynamic field.

What jobs can you get with a virology degree?

A virology degree can lead to roles such as virologist, research scientist, laboratory technician, or public health analyst. These jobs typically involve working in laboratories, conducting experiments, and analyzing viral pathogens, often requiring knowledge of microbiology, molecular biology, and laboratory techniques.
More about Virology Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Virology Salary jobs? Cities with the most Virology Salary job openings:
What states have the most Virology Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Virology Salary jobs include:
Infographic showing various Virology Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,305 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Molecular Virology Lead Technician

Goldbelt

Frederick, MD โ€ข On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Molecular Virology Lead Technician

Overview: Please note that this position is contingent upon the successful award of a contract currently under bid. Goldbelt Apex, a part of the Healthcare Technology Transformation Group, is a data-focused company dedicated to process and quality in every aspect. As experts in healthcare IT experts, Apex is committed to building systems for healthcare organizations to seamlessly communicate and exchange data across different systems and devices. The Molecular Virology Lead Technician performs advanced technical duties including sample preparation, viral assays, and data collection in support of virology research protocols in BSL-3/4 labs. Provides senior technical support to the Molecular Virology team, assisting in laboratory operations, sample handling, and assay performance in high-containment settings.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Assist with viral culture and plaque assays.
  • Prepare reagents and maintain cleanroom standards.
  • Perform sample tracking and data logging.
  • Train junior staff and support protocol implementation.
  • Manage equipment calibration and troubleshooting.
  • Performs laboratory procedures, testing, research activities, and other tasks in fields such as aerobiology, biochemistry, immunology, microbiology, virology, bacteriology, molecular or cell biology, veterinary medicine, toxicology, or other scientific discipline.
  • Plans and accomplish goals, participates in or leading development of research work plans, proposals, budgets, and agreements.
  • May function as a study Lead Investigator.
  • Independently reads, understands, and executes techniques, procedures, and plans to meet requirements of quality standards, national standards of research technical accuracy, other relevant written guidelines, and timelines prescribed by the research plan and based on professional judgment.
  • Records all laboratory procedures and research project data, data analyses, and analytical conclusions of analyses in accordance with applicable regulations and procedures.
  • Performs a variety of scientific and administrative tasks. Provides training and mentorship to junior staff.
  • May participate in support of laboratory biosafety requirements and laboratory space management, in coordination with director, Investigators, or other relevant staff.

Qualifications: Necessary Skills and Knowledge:

  • Competency in virology lab techniques.
  • Familiarity with GLP and biosafety requirements.
  • Strong organization and quality control focus.
  • Ability to function under PPE and containment protocols.
  • Specialized skills may be required, including but not limited to, aerobiology, clinical pathology, electron or confocal microscopy, histopathology, quality assurance, and good laboratory practice.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in life sciences or relevant discipline.
  • Minimum 5+ years in laboratory-based research support roles.
  • Possesses experience, skill and expertise with a large variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a SECRET security clearance eligibility, with no access to classified information, is required.
  • Enroll in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP), if required.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • ACTIVE SECRET is preferred
  • Associate degree with significant lab experience may be accepted.

Pay and Benefits: The annual salary range for this position is $80,000 - $90,000. At Goldbelt, we value and reward our team's dedication and hard work. We provide a competitive base salary commensurate with your qualifications and experience. As an employee, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company matching, tax-deferred savings options, supplementary benefits, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.