Salary Breakdown
Microbiologists
Average
$60,290
ANNUAL
$28.99
HOURLY
Entry Level
$41,020
ANNUAL
$19.72
HOURLY
Mid Level
$51,160
ANNUAL
$24.59
HOURLY
Expert Level
$85,040
ANNUAL
$40.88
HOURLY
Projected Jobs
Microbiologists
370
Projected job openings through 2030
Sample Career Roadmap
Microbiologists
Supporting Programs
Microbiologists
No Results
Top Expected Tasks
Microbiologists
01
Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms in prescribed or developed media, controlling moisture, aeration, temperature, and nutrition.
02
Study growth, structure, development, and general characteristics of bacteria and other microorganisms to understand their relationship to human, plant, and animal health.
03
Examine physiological, morphological, and cultural characteristics, using microscope, to identify and classify microorganisms in human, water, and food specimens.
04
Provide laboratory services for health departments, community environmental health programs, and physicians needing information for diagnosis and treatment.
05
Investigate the relationship between organisms and disease, including the control of epidemics and the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.
06
Prepare technical reports and recommendations, based upon research outcomes.
07
Supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists.
08
Monitor and perform tests on water, food, and the environment to detect harmful microorganisms or to obtain information about sources of pollution, contamination, or infection.
09
Use a variety of specialized equipment, such as electron microscopes, gas and high-pressure liquid chromatographs, electrophoresis units, thermocyclers, fluorescence-activated cell sorters, and phosphorimagers.
10
Study the structure and function of human, animal, and plant tissues, cells, pathogens, and toxins.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Microbiologists
Common knowledge, skills & abilities needed to get a foot in the door.
KNOWLEDGE
Biology
KNOWLEDGE
English Language
KNOWLEDGE
Chemistry
KNOWLEDGE
Mathematics
KNOWLEDGE
Computers and Electronics
SKILL
Science
SKILL
Reading Comprehension
SKILL
Writing
SKILL
Active Listening
SKILL
Critical Thinking
ABILITY
Inductive Reasoning
ABILITY
Written Comprehension
ABILITY
Written Expression
ABILITY
Category Flexibility
ABILITY
Deductive Reasoning
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